Fueling connections through food and fun

Mt. Pleasant, MI – On Monday, February 17, students from Central Michigan University’s Nutrition and Dietetics program participated in a special event at Finch Fieldhouse gym, working alongside Connections That Count (CTC)—a program dedicated to fostering inclusion and social engagement for youth with disabilities.

As part of the evening’s activities, CMU students enrolled in the NDS 481 Community Nutrition: Field Work course teamed up to prepare nutritious meals, including fettuccine alfredo and pasta marinara, for local youth and their families. The event was a unique opportunity to combine culinary skills with community outreach, all while promoting healthy eating habits in a supportive, inclusive environment.

CTC provides a welcoming space where youth with disabilities and their families come together to engage in a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, exercise, and meal preparation. By working alongside CMU student leaders, the youth not only develop valuable social skills but also build friendships, gain confidence, and experience a sense of belonging. At the same time, the CMU students gain hands-on experience working with diverse groups, broadening their understanding of community nutrition and support for individuals with disabilities.

“Hands-on meal preparation is a great way to engage youth in a fun and educational way,” said Dietetics student Erika Cheney. “It empowers them to learn practical skills, interact with their peers, and discover the joy of healthy cooking, all while building confidence and social connections.”

Connections That Count is just one of the many initiatives that CMU’s Nutrition and Dietetics students are involved in as part of their coursework and commitment to making a positive impact on the community.

For more information about CMU’s Nutrition and Dietetics program and course offerings, contact Program Director Dr. Najat Yahia at yahia1n@cmich.edu. For details about the nutrition minor and related courses, contact Dr. Jeff Fisher at fishe2jj@cmich.edu.