Mandy Anderson and Aaron Johnson of Grand Haven are the founders of Lake Effect Kitchen (LEK). Mandy and Aaron saw an opportunity to provide healthy meals to the community and easing the busyness of life by streamlining meal prep while simultaneously providing vocational training and employment for young adults with different abilities. Their inspiration came from their children, as both founders have children with autism spectrum disorder. Lake Effect Kitchen is a truly unique community business that focuses on people, family, and community.
As a mom of special needs children myself, I instantly connected with Mandy when we "found" each other in an online social media parent group. Mandy was easy to talk to, and her love and dedication to ensuring her children have every opportunity possible was inspiring to me. I followed her story from initial idea of LEK to what it has become today. What started out as a small business with a few services has expanded to encompass many aspects of food service, and perhaps even more importantly, opening doors for so many who benefit from the education provided at LEK.
"At LEK, we believe in great food and authentic community for all. It’s our mission to ease your busy life by streamlining your meal needs.
Why order from other meal prep companies when Lake Effect Kitchen is local and every dollar spent helps provide job skills training for students with disabilities?"
Through watching what the young adults and staff at LEK accomplished, I began thinking about my daughter who was really struggling to find her place in school and figure out her passion. We started exploring culinary careers, and she is now at the tech center for pastry and baking arts. My own daughter is flourishing now that she has found a passion, something she is good at, and can share her art with others. Without Mandy and LEK, I'm not sure we would have even known about the magic that can happen in the kitchen!
Check out Lake Effect Kitchen and all they have to offer. Whether you're looking for quick and easy lunches for yourself, meals for your whole family, or catering for a special event, they have you covered! It's as easy as visiting their website, placing your order, and picking up your food during the scheduled pickup times (delivery is also available in select areas, contact LEK for more information). Their monthly menu looks delicious!
LEK's services include:
- Meal prep
- Catering
- School Lunch Programs
- Inclusive Culinary Education and Competitive Employment Skills
- Kitchen Rental
