Salem Home

Cooking Assistants support Therapeutic Recreation programs at Salem Home by assisting with planned cooking activities. Volunteers work alongside staff to help residents participate, stay engaged, and enjoy preparing simple meals or dishes together.

These programs offer residents opportunities to connect, share familiar skills, and experience the joy of cooking in a supportive and social environment.

This role is ideal for volunteers who enjoy cooking and want to be part of meaningful, hands-on group activities.

What Volunteers Do

• Assist residents with simple cooking tasks as directed by staff
• Support residents in participating at their own pace and ability
• Encourage engagement and friendly conversation during the program
• Help with setup and cleanup of materials and kitchen space
• Follow direction from Therapeutic Recreation staff
• Notify staff of any concerns about residents
• Record volunteer hours in the volunteer record book

Location
Kitchen spaces and program areas within Salem Home.

Time Commitment

• Based on program schedule
• Typically 1–2 hours per session
• Flexible scheduling
• 6 month commitment preferred

Requirements

• Age 15 and older
• Interest in cooking and working with food
• Friendly, patient, and supportive
• Comfortable working in a group setting
• Able to follow direction from staff
• Willing to follow Salem Home policies and food safety guidelines

Training and Support
Orientation and guidance provided by the Director of Community Engagement and Therapeutic Recreation staff.

Why Volunteer
Help create meaningful experiences where residents can connect, participate, and enjoy the comfort and familiarity of cooking together.