Volunteer With SIL This Summer
Support Youth, Families, and Food Access in Wichita
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Social Innovation Laboratory (SIL) is recruiting volunteers to support two community-centered summer programs: That Pop-Up Restaurant (TPUR) and Culinary Learning Labs. These programs work together to improve food access, build life skills, and create welcoming community spaces for youth and families across Wichita.
Volunteers play a vital role in making these programs possible. Whether you enjoy working directly with youth, supporting community events, or helping behind the scenes, there are many ways to get involved.
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Volunteer Commitment
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Most volunteer shifts are 2–4 hours and take place June through July at community sites across Wichita. Both daytime and evening opportunities may be available.
Training and orientation will be provided. No culinary experience is required.
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Who Should Volunteer
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We welcome volunteers who are passionate about community engagement and supporting youth. This opportunity is especially valuable for students interested in:
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Social work
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Public health
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Youth development
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Education
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Community organizing
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Food systems and food equity
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That Pop-Up Restaurant (TPUR)
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TPUR transforms community spaces into welcoming pop-up dining experiences where youth and families can enjoy nutritious meals in a supportive environment. Volunteers help create a positive and organized event experience for guests.
Volunteer opportunities may include:
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Event Setup – Assist with preparing the event space, including tables, signage, and check-in areas.
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Food Service – Help serve meals and interact with guests in a welcoming, restaurant-style environment.
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Guest Check-In – Support sign-in and help track participation for program reporting.
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Youth Activities – Lead simple games or engagement activities for children during meal events.
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Event Cleanup – Assist with packing up materials and restoring the site after the event.
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Culinary Learning Labs
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Culinary Learning Labs provide hands-on cooking and life-skills education for middle and high school youth. Volunteers support instructors while mentoring youth as they build skills in cooking, nutrition, teamwork, and budgeting.
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Volunteer opportunities may include:
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Kitchen Assistant – Support cooking demonstrations and help youth follow recipes safely.
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Small Group Mentor – Work with a small group of youth to encourage participation and teamwork.
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Activity Support – Assist with budgeting exercises, nutrition discussions, and life-skills activities.
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Session Support – Help with ingredient organization, materials preparation, and kitchen cleanup.
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Required Trainings:
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All volunteers must attend one TPUR Training session:
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May 7, 2026 at 5:30pm
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May 8, 2026 at 5:30pm
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May 9, 2026 at 11am
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Volunteers serving in Culinary Learning Labs must also attend a separate training:
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June 15, 2026 at 11am
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June 16, 2026 at 4pm
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