Prep Cook Volunteer – “Kitchen Prep Team”
The Kitchen Prep Team is the heart behind preparing fresh ingredients and helping meals come together for hundreds of neighbors served through The Gathering Free Community Meals in Iowa.
Prep Cooks work behind the scenes to help the kitchen stay organized, clean, and ready for meal service. This role is perfect for volunteers who enjoy cooking, teamwork, and serving others through food.
Volunteer Duties:
Wash, peel, and cut vegetables and fruit
Prepare ingredients for cooks and kitchen leads
Portion desserts, salads, and side dishes
Help organize kitchen supplies and prep tables
Assist with meal assembly and packaging
Wash dishes, pans, utensils, and kitchen equipment
Keep prep areas clean, sanitized, and organized
Help restock serving lines and kitchen stations
Support cooks and other volunteers throughout the day
Skills & Qualities:
Enjoys working in a kitchen environment
Team player with a positive attitude
Able to stand and move around during meal prep
Willing to help wherever needed
No professional cooking experience required
Volunteer Time:
Typically Mondays starts from 10:00 AM – 2 PM Meal Service on every other Monday meal nights. Flexible shifts are welcome. We start Packing Meals at 2:45ish
Why This Role Matters:
Every meal starts with preparation. Prep Cook volunteers help create warm, nutritious meals that bring comfort, dignity, and connection to our Cass County neighbors.
The Gathering Mission:
“No charge. No questions. Just kindness.”
