From Kitchen to Classroom
CCF West expands programming to enrich senior and community life
By Sarah Kittle
The Chaldean Community Foundation’s West location (CCF West) will soon unveil a robust slate of new programs designed to support seniors, families, and community members of all ages. From wellness classes to cultural workshops and intergenerational cooking lessons, the expanded offerings reflect CCF West’s mission of building connection, promoting health, and celebrating heritage.
A thoughtful approach to community programming
For Program Coordinator Farah Shammami, the work begins with balance. “A long time ago I read that a good rule of thumb is to balance fun with purpose,” she explains. “When planning programs, there are several layers to consider—understanding the audience, incorporating intergenerational opportunities, and always evaluating and evolving.”
Her philosophy comes to life in everything from language classes to cooking demonstrations. “Learning a new language may not always feel exciting, but when students are asked to have a simple conversation with one another, that practice reinforces the language and builds confidence,” she says. “And when people gather in our demo kitchen, they’re not just cooking. They’re team building, holding each other accountable, and having fun at the same time.”
This intentional design ensures that CCF West’s programs do more than fill a calendar—they create opportunities for meaningful growth, skill-building, and connection.
Senior Activities: Health, Fun, and Friendship
A cornerstone of CCF West’s programming is its commitment to community elders. Shammami is especially excited about expanding opportunities for older adults, not only for social connection but also to increase awareness of valuable resources.
“Although many may have children and grandchildren who help them, there are amazing opportunities beyond what family can provide,” she says. One example is Community Transit services, which in many communities allow residents 55 and over—or disabled individuals 16 and older—to schedule rides for as little as $2 each way. These services can take seniors to both medical and non-medical appointments, from doctor visits to trips to the post office or even a favorite restaurant.
At CCF West, planned activities for seniors will range from casual card games and backgammon to movies, music, and social hours. Creative workshops in quilting, knitting, and arts will provide space for expression, while health and wellness sessions will cover everything from blood pressure checks and diabetes education to stress management and arthritis relief.
Specialized programs under consideration include:
• Balance & Breathe – Gentle exercise and chair yoga to improve strength and flexibility.
• Memory Café – Dementia/Alzheimer’s support with social and educational components.
• Fall Prevention – Training in safety, balance, and medication management.
• Diabetes Care – Practical workshops on early warning signs and treatment.
• Parkinson’s Support – Sessions on diagnosis, treatment, and living with the condition.
• Caregiver Support – Tools, resources, and tips for family members.
• Stop the Scams – Fraud prevention and safety education.
Additional offerings may include Stroke Smart education, technology and social media training, and more arts-based programming. Shammami adds that family-focused nights—movies and live entertainment by talented Chaldean performers—are also on the horizon.
Kitchen Classes: A Taste of Tradition
Food will play a central role in building intergenerational connections. The CCF West demonstration kitchen (Nana Bernadette Sarafa’s Kitchen), will host an array of cooking classes designed for couples, families, and kids. From “Date Night” sessions to parent-child experiences, the kitchen will become a lively space for both learning and bonding.
“When people cook in groups of two or more, it’s about more than the recipe,” Shammami says. “They’re learning together, building teamwork, holding each other accountable, and—most importantly—having fun.”
The curriculum will celebrate Chaldean heritage with dishes like takhratha, biryani, bomya, kahi, gamar, lahem ageen, potato chop, burag, kubba, kleecha, and dolma. CCF West also plans to welcome guest chefs and community members, such as Genevieve Kashat, who appeared on the Food Network more than once and recently used the CCF West kitchen to teach teens how to bake her favorite chocolate chip cookies.
Learning, Fitness, and Cultural Exchange
Beyond senior and cooking programs, CCF West is set to launch language classes in September. Sureth classes for kids (ages 8–15) and Arabic classes for adults (18+) will run through December. Shammami encourages community members not only to participate but also to contribute: “We’re looking for volunteers to assist the chefs in the kitchen and to help shape programs as they grow.”
The location will also support physical activity with options like pickleball, tennis, and basketball, encouraging community members to stay active while enjoying social connections.
In the spirit of cultural exchange, CCF West has partnered with the Jewish Federation to explore joint programming that highlights shared traditions and promotes mutual understanding.
Building a Stronger Community Together
While programming is still being finalized, the vision is clear: CCF West will be a hub for health, learning, connection, and cultural pride. Shammami summarizes the effort best:
“We want every generation—from seniors seeking companionship to children discovering new skills—to find something meaningful here. CCF West is a place where community comes together to grow and thrive.”