In the heart of Kent County, Delaware, a young man is stirring up more than cookie dough—he’s combining ambition with opportunity. Meet James, a participant in KenCrest’s Meaningful Day program, who has discovered a newfound passion for cooking and baking, taking exciting steps toward a future in the food industry.
James’s journey began with a simple goal: to learn how to operate safely in a kitchen. With the guidance and support of KenCrest staff, he enrolled in a ServSafe food handler course—an essential certification for anyone looking to work in the food service industry. Through his dedication and hard work, he completed the course and passed the exam in November 2024. This was a moment of pride, not just for James, but for everyone who had been cheering him on.
Now, James is focusing on his next culinary adventure: baking homemade treats for our upcoming Meaningful Day Community Fun Day this April. It’s an opportunity for James to showcase his growing skills, gain more hands-on experience, and bring joy to those around him.
But James's story is just one example of how the Meaningful Day program is transforming lives across Delaware and beyond.
What Is KenCrest’s Meaningful Day Program?
KenCrest’s Meaningful Day Community Engagement initiative is part of our broader Community-Based Services, which help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling, independent lives. We collaborate with individuals living at home with their families, in residential settings, or with Lifesharing providers throughout Pennsylvania and Delaware.
In Delaware, our newest service area, we currently have 12 active participants and this number continues to grow. Our participants are thriving as they build relationships, develop essential life skills, and engage more deeply with their communities.
KenCrest’s Meaningful Day initiative helps individuals explore what brings them joy and purpose—whether it’s taking yoga classes, visiting museums and parks, going bowling, volunteering, or learning something new. Through a person-centered approach, we support their independence while encouraging meaningful involvement and authentic inclusion in community life.
Real Growth, Real Stories
From learning how to budget and manage personal finances, to exploring computer skills with tablets and 3D printers at local libraries, participants like James are showing what’s possible when people are given the right tools and encouragement.
The life skills that participants like James develop in Meaningful Day are essential to support their independence. Equally important are the social networks that are fostered through the program. Meaningful Day allows members of the KenCrest community to build new relationships, not in a sheltered space, but in the environments, they are passionate about, where they can be known for who they are, not for their disability.
Join us in making every day meaningful for those we support. By volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, you can help transform lives and communities. Learn more about KenCrest's Meaningful Day program and consider becoming a part of this incredible journey.
