The Social Chef x The Greater Chicago Food Depository: Volunteering for a Stronger Chicago

At The Social Chef, we believe that cooking is not just about food — it’s about community, connection, and giving back. That’s why we’re excited to partner with The Greater Chicago Food Depository to create meaningful opportunities for our members to volunteer and make a tangible impact on the lives of individuals and families facing hunger.

One of the most fulfilling ways we’re supporting the Chicago community is by participating in the food repacking events organized by The Greater Chicago Food Depository. These sessions are a great way for our members to come together and help sort and pack donated food that will be distributed to those in need across the city. Volunteering at these events allows us to roll up our sleeves, get hands-on, and do our part in fighting hunger right here in Chicago.

But the impact of these events goes beyond just packing boxes. Volunteering together strengthens the bonds within The Social Chef community, fostering a deeper sense of connection and shared purpose. It’s a reminder that the skills we cultivate in the kitchen — from teamwork to compassion — can be used to nourish not only our bodies but also our relationships and the neighborhoods we serve.

For us, cooking is a tool for connection, and when we come together to volunteer, we see that food can do even more. It can build a stronger, more compassionate Chicago. Through our partnership with The Greater Chicago Food Depository, we are reminded that we’re part of something bigger than just a meal — we’re part of a movement to create a community where everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive.

We’re proud to stand alongside The Greater Chicago Food Depository in their mission to provide food for those in need, and we look forward to continuing to explore ways we can contribute and make a difference in the lives of those around us.

Together, we can make a powerful impact, one meal at a time.

The Social Chef x Kendall College: Supporting the Next Generation of Culinary Talent!

We’re excited to officially announce our partnership with Kendall College’s Culinary Program — one of Chicago’s most respected training grounds for aspiring chefs.

Through this collaboration, The Social Chef is proud to offer Kendall students the opportunity to lead and assist in our group cooking sessions, giving them real-world, hands-on experience in a dynamic, community-driven environment. These students bring creativity, skill, and passion to the table — and we’re honored to play a small role in supporting them at the start of their culinary careers.

As a company rooted in community and shared food experiences, this partnership is a natural fit. We believe in the power of mentorship and creating pathways for emerging talent to grow in a supportive, real-world setting — not just in restaurant kitchens, but in spaces where food becomes a shared experience.

For our Social Chef members, this partnership offers something truly special: a front-row seat to Chicago’s rising culinary stars. Whether you’re learning to prep a new dish or discovering flavor combinations you’d never thought to try, each session becomes a chance to connect not just with your fellow guests — but with the chefs of tomorrow.

We’re incredibly grateful to Kendall College for believing in our mission, and to the students who will bring energy and creativity to our sessions. We can’t wait to introduce more of them to our community as we grow.

Stay tuned for upcoming sessions featuring Kendall talent — and come cook with the future of Chicago cuisine.