Culinary Kids South

Founded in 2023 by Executive Director Chef Malisa Rivera, Culinary Kids South is a community-rooted nonprofit dedicated to inspiring, educating, and empowering youth in Darlington, South Carolina. What began as a simple vision to bring healthier food and culinary education to underserved neighborhoods has blossomed into a vibrant initiative that touches countless young lives through free programs, volunteer-led events, and hands-on training.

Our mission is clear: to equip young people in low-income communities with the tools to make better nutritional choices while creating pathways to economic self-sufficiency. Through a blend of culinary training, farming, aquaculture, and environmental education, we provide youth with practical skills that not only encourage healthier lifestyles but also open doors to careers in food service, agriculture, sustainability, and beyond.

At Culinary Kids South, we believe food is more than fuel — it’s a catalyst for transformation. Every class, workshop, and project nurtures resilience, creativity, and leadership, empowering youth to thrive and become changemakers in their communities. By investing in today’s children, we’re cultivating tomorrow’s leaders — individuals ready to live healthier lives, support their families, and build stronger, more sustainable communities.