Open Hand Atlanta joined the Catalyst Kitchens network in 2024, and has grown by leaps and bounds, especially under the direction of current board member, Chef Kira Scott. We are excited to show their work to the network, and highlight their approaches to training, social enterprise, and hunger relief. We are ecstatic to have them hosting one of our 2026 Regional Summits.

We will learn from their team and partners how they approach program design, especially for the unique challenges presented by populations of youth and adults in the Atlanta community, and how they are pushing themselves as an innovator in their community beyond just food and job training.

WE FINALLY HAVE CONFIRMED EVENT DATES! The Georgia Food is Medicine Coalition has shifted their event later, and we are shifting ours to match, because they are giving all members attending the event free access to their conference! We are combining content and a full day at Open Hand with the amazing learning possible through the Georgia FIMC event. See below for updated prospective schedule and event details.

For our event:

Day 1 will run take place starting at Emory University for the Georgia Food is Medicine 2026 Conference. We will be with that coalition from breakfast through lunch and one afternoon session, before transitioning over to Open Hand Atlanta for a tour and then a happy hour at a partner restaurant.

Here is the FIMC event page https://www.openhandatlanta.org/events/2nd-annual-georgia-food-is-medicine-summit/

NOTE: There is no need to register on that website. Catalyst Kitchens has a block reserved for attendance by our members at this event, and by registering with us, you will be added to that list.

Day 2 will be a deep dive into everything Open Hand Atlanta does besides their amazing medically tailored meals, detailing their apprenticeship practices, job training, community partnerships, and alumni voices. It will run from 9:00AM to an expected close at 4:30PM, and include breakfast and lunch

Be on the lookout for a draft agenda in August, with the final agenda in early October at least two weeks ahead of the event.

If you are attending the event, here is the hotel block: https://www.loewshotels.com/atlanta-hotel/group-catalyst-kitchens-network-room-block

Notes on pricing:

Members – If you work for a member organization, this event is free or otherwise very low cost for you! Be sure you have the latest discount code for event registration. It is available on the Catalyst Kitchens website here.

Also for members only:

The 2026 Travel Stipend Request Form is now active! Click here to get started.

These travel stipends are available thanks to the generous support of Toast.org and other funders, each event has support to help members travel where otherwise budgets would be a roadblock to your participation.

Non-members – part of your registration fees can be used to count towards future membership dues. Reach out to the Catalyst Kitchens team today to find out more.

Contact the host of Catalyst Kitchens Southeast Regional Summit 2026 - Atlanta, GA