Orlando’s Edible Education Experience has rebranded as The Kitchen House, marking a new step forward in its mission to connect the Central Florida community with food and each other.
Operating from the Emeril Lagasse Foundation Kitchen House and Culinary Garden in College Park, the nonprofit’s new name pays homage to its home while reflecting its commitment to immersive garden-to-kitchen experiences.
With new co-executive directors Sara Elliott and Betsy Gwinn at the helm, The Kitchen House is poised to expand its reach and deepen its impact.
The rebrand signals a renewed focus on hands-on programming that teaches people of all ages to grow, cook, and enjoy whole, plant-based foods.
“Our name reflects what we do—inviting people into a warm, welcoming space where they can grow, cook, and enjoy real food together,” says Gwinn, whose deep ties to Central Florida’s nonprofit scene bring energy to the organization.
Elliott, drawing on her experience at the Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture, adds, “Knowing how to prepare fresh, whole food isn’t just a skill—it’s essential for our health and the environment.”
Founded over a decade ago by Chef Kevin Fonzo, gardener Brad Jones, educator Sarah Cahill, and Orlando Junior Academy, The Kitchen House grew from a simple question: What if students could learn about science, health, and the environment through real food?
That vision continues to shape its youth and community programs, which emphasize harvesting fresh produce from the organization’s robust garden and sharing meals together. “Our experiences show people how to confidently grow, cook, and enjoy whole foods,” says Program Manager Chef Megan Amnott. “The best part is enjoying the meals together.”
The need for such programs is urgent, as 70% of U.S. children and teens’ diets consist of ultra-processed foods linked to obesity, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.
The Kitchen House counters this trend by equipping the community with the knowledge and skills to choose grown, not manufactured, foods—fostering healthier bodies, stronger communities, and a more sustainable planet.
Under Elliott and Gwinn’s leadership, The Kitchen House is expanding its classes, interactive programs, and shared meals to reach more Central Floridians. To learn more or get involved, visit TheKitchenHouse.org.
About The Kitchen House
The Kitchen House is a nonprofit organization based in Orlando’s College Park, dedicated to creating deeper connections with food and community through immersive garden-to-table experiences for Central Florida.
