The Story Behind
BELONG
Belong was created to provide dignified, meaningful, paid employment for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in a nurturing environment. These individuals struggle to find jobs, purpose, and social connections.
God placed Belong on my heart when I discovered the lack of opportunities that would be available for our daughter after high school graduation. In 2019, when she was a junior in high school, we launched the vision for Belong in our backyard and began raising the initial funding for the kitchen. When the pandemic hit in 2020, we decided to begin employing several IDD adults and offering take-out meals prepared in my kitchen. Thanks to our incredible community, the concept took off and we were selling out every week.
We Launched Beyond In Our Backyard
A PLACE WHERE EVERYONE BELONGS
We believe God has provided everyone with the capacity to serve and contribute to our community in a meaningful way. We can’t wait to see what comes from having a place where everyone Belongs.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
"The team here was so kind. We went in to see what they had to offer. During the week you can pick up a meal to take home. I want to go back on a Saturday morning to try brunch! Love the vibe and the mission."
Jennifer Bennett
"Just picked up dinner for the first time from Belong, absolutely loved it!"
Amber Burton Alfred
"Loved the flavor and creaminess that paired well with the rice and beans that I added for a quick and easy lunch. This beautiful nonprofit is so rich in giving space for special people to have a consistent job and way to feel accepted and part of something big and tasty!"
Bernadette Loweree
"I highly recommend the Belong Kitchen! The food is beyond good and so is the cause! What an asset for the community. As good as the dinners are, the cinnamon rolls are the bomb!"
Gary Manuel
"We paid a visit to Belong Kitchen yesterday and loved everything about them. We received great customer service and I was blown away by the incredible work they are doing there. I’m wearing my Belong shirt today I picked up!"
Stephanie Retherford
“A great kitchen providing meals for you and jobs for special needs folks. I love it.”
Marlys Edborg Shadle