KELLEY BLIGH - Executive Director

Kelley is a licensed master social worker and has worked with the neurodiverse population since 2014. Kelley approaches all programs and participants with a strengths-based approach, assumes participants’ competency, and creates a safe space where everyone can try new things and grow. She believes that everyone should know how to cook and that anyone can cook successfully with the right supports and resources—which is why Culikid exists. She works to make sure that everyone has the same access and opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of their diagnosis and past opportunities. The first thing Kelley learned to make in the kitchen was chocolate chip cookies. She still enjoys baking and cooking and is on a constant quest to find her next favorite recipe.

KRISTIE CABRERA-ROBLEDO - Program Manager

Kristie is a licensed occupational therapist which means that she understands how physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges can impact a person's ability to engage in meaningful activities, like cooking. Through this understanding she develops and modifies Culikid’s programs to best support participants. She is also passionate about accessibility and inclusivity and believes that cooking can be accessible to everyone given the right support and environment. When it comes to supporting participants in the kitchen, her teaching approach is grounded in the belief that it is best to meet a person where they are. The first thing Kristie learned to cook well is rice, a staple in her family’s meals. Right now, she is learning how to make different kinds of soups and finding the perfect balance of spices and seasonings.

SAM PACKER - Occupational Therapy Assistant

Samantha Packer is a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant who facilitates cooking programs at Culikid. Samantha believes in the power of cooking to bring people together, and loves the inclusive nature of a kitchen. One of the first things Samantha learned to cook was cinnamon buns, but today loves to make all different types of soups. When not working, Samantha loves playing tennis, studying the Italian language, and walking in Central Park with her dog, Winnie. 

SOPHIA RIZZUTO - Nutritionist Facilitator

Sophia is a recent graduate of her nutrition masters program and is on her way to becoming a registered dietitian. Her time with Culikid began as her community rotation site in part of her dietetic internship, and she now leads some of Culikid’s virtual classes. She has grown up loving food her whole life and began to cook at a very young age. This played a large part in her decision to study nutrition all throughout her collegiate career. She is always trying new recipes and works to add nutrient-dense foods to many dishes. When it comes to food, she never asks what should be restricted from, but rather what can be added into the diet. She loves to give tips and tricks in the kitchen during her classes and supports participants with simple and fun instructions. The first thing Sophia learned to make was eggplant parmesan with her grandfather, something her family eats at almost every gathering. She loves to cook and bake in her free time and test recipes of her own.

LINDSAY ROSS - Chef Facilitator

As a well seasoned chef with 10 + years in the food industry, multiple degrees from The Culinary Institute of America, and working on The Food Network, I have learned a lot about the way that food and cooking impacts people. One of the biggest reasons I love cooking is that it is not just an important life skill, but a mechanism to help people express and regulate their emotions. Cooking has been a way that I can express myself and connect with others. I feel so blessed to have turned that passion into my life's work. My favorite recipes to cook and teach are simply recipes that are tasty, healthy, and fun to make! At Culikid we use these skills to help neurodiverse adults and children accomplish their goals and make some yummy food. I love to teach my classes in a relaxed, no pressure way, where I give my students room to grow and thrive. Can’t wait to cook with you! Pronouns (She,Her).

SHAKIMA WASHINGTON - Chef Facilitator

I'm a certified special education teacher with a passion for cooking. As an educator, I like guiding and revealing the potential a student didn't know they could possess. I believe all individuals regardless of disability deserve the opportunity to participate in any and every activity as their peers. I grew up with my eyes glued to watching the Food Network channel. I see chefs as artists that construct edible creations.The first dish I learned to make on my own as a kid was scrambled eggs. My favorite food to eat is baked macaroni and cheese. My favorite things to make are assortments of cakes and cookies. I hope to open my own bakery one day and be able to facilitate cooking lessons in the shop. When I'm not cooking, I enjoy watching crime fiction shows, reading, writing poetry, and exploring museums/exhibits.

ALANA ZIMMER - Occupational Therapist Facilitator

Alana is a licensed occupational therapist and facilitates cooking classes at Culikid. Alana strongly believes that tasks that teach new skills while completing an activity someone enjoys is the best way to facilitate growth and learning throughout other areas of life. She loves teaching new skills through cooking because it allows everyone to have their unique preferences and experiences shine through. Alana is also passionate about universal design and making homes and community spaces accessible to everyone. As a child, the first thing Alana learned to make in the kitchen was chocolate cake in an Easy Bake Oven, and today she still enjoys baking even more than she enjoys cooking. Her favorite thing to cook is spaghetti bolognese, and she loves to bake muffins and scones.