I didn't set out to start a nonprofit. I set out to make space-real, physical space-for people like me: people with talent, grit, and dreams, but without a clear on-ramp to opportunity. Friends of Codey's began not as a grand plan, but as a response to a need I saw over and over in my own community-local food entrepreneurs, gifted cooks and community builders, with no affordable place to launch their businesses, no guidance to navigate permits or licensing, and no champions in their corner.

I named the organization after my cousin (more like brother), Codey, whose spirit reminds me every day of what it means to believe in someone before the world does. What started as a few folks cooking in their home and borrowed spaces has grown into a full culinary incubator, a training ground, and a launchpad. We've helped more than 200 entrepreneurs formalize their businesses, earn their ServSafe certifications, access commercial kitchen space, and broker catering opportunities they never dreamed possible.

At Friends of Codey's, we don't just help people cook-we help them create legacy. We provide the tools, training, and community support needed to thrive in an industry not built with us in mind. As Founder and Executive Director, I'm still in the kitchen, still at the table, and still deeply committed to building a more inclusive food economy.

Now, we're ready to grow-and we need your help to do it.