
National Culinary Arts Month with Brio Living Services
July is National Culinary Arts Month! Intended to highlight the artistry, passion, and hard work that it takes to run a successful kitchen; this month shines a spotlight on the professionals responsible for bringing delicious and unique meals to our tables every day.
Cooks and chefs all over the country this month will be recognized for the important role they play in their respective arenas. The kitchens belonging to Brio Living Services communities across the state are no different. At Brio Living Services, excellence really is our service; and our chefs exemplify that every time they don their embroidered coats.
Dante Owens, Health Center Chef Manager for Porter Hills Village and recent recipient of the Emerging Leader Award from LeadingAge Michigan, credits his time with Brio Living Services as the most humbling and rewarding culinary job he’s ever had. He went on to say that, “working for the residents and with the eclectic team members is the best.” What Dante shares about his time with Brio reminds us that having a reliable team is key to the overall health of a kitchen.
Mandy Goodband, Dining Services Coordinator, shared her thoughts, saying, “What I enjoy most about working at Brio is being part of an organization that genuinely puts residents first. Our dining services team not only prepares meals but also creates meaningful experiences where residents enjoy delicious food, engaging conversations, and a true sense of community.”
Dining Services is responsible for the culinary events that occur daily, weekly, and monthly at each of our communities. Our program is carefully curated to reflect the seasons and holidays. This month, residents of Porter Hills Village can enjoy a BBQ lunch on the rooftop. Next month, across the state, residents of Chelsea Retirement Community can treat themselves to a different specialty burger each week in honor of National Burger Day. These special events wouldn’t be possible without the amazing talent of our chefs!
If you’re not a chef, maybe this is your chance to support one! National Culinary Arts Month is all the excuse you need to check out a cooking demo at one of our communities, visit that new restaurant in town, or simply tell the professional cooks and chefs in your own life “thank you!” It’s easy in today’s hustle and bustle to forget those working behind the curtain; sometimes kind words and a smile make all the difference.
That’s why this month; we wash our hands properly before bringing them together in honor of each of our chefs and cooks. Our organization wouldn’t be what it is without you!
Learn more about Dining Services at Brio and how you can join our team in a career you’ll love!

