Author: Blanca Valencia

Developed and taught “Healthy Crafts and Eating with Fruit” for Chicago Teachers Union Association.

This course was delivered through Purple Asparagus, the amazing not-for-profit that “through exploration and discovery, Purple Asparagus educates children, families and the community about eating that’s good for the body and the planet”.

I worked as a Chef Instructor for a number of years in Common Thread teaching Cooking Skills and World Cuisine program at Bucktown C.I.C.S. & St. Vincent de Paul.

Founded by Chef Art Smith and artist Jesus Salgueiro in 2003, Common Threads grew out of the belief that family and food have the power to nurture and strengthen us, to connect us to culture and community, and to teach and excite us about our world.

By sharing the delight of cooking and delicious recipes, in conjunction with practical life-skills in health and nutrition, Common Threads can change lives.