Off to the Races with Produce Picasso

A young female student shows off her edible creations

We were off to the races for our latest NASCAR-themed Produce Picasso event, where creativity, color, and nutrition took center stage!

The day kicked off with an important pit stop — a quick lesson in proper handwashing. After all, every great chef knows that clean hands are the first step toward a winning meal. Once everyone’s hands were squeaky clean, the kids learned how eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables fuels their bodies in different ways — each color giving them a special health boost to help them grow strong and healthy.

A teacher teaches a nutrition education class while students raise their hands

Then it was time to rev those creative engines! The cafeteria tables transformed into colorful “pit lanes” stocked with a bounty of fresh produce. Guided by our volunteers, the kids built delicious works of edible art while tasting their way through every color of the rainbow. Some were a little hesitant at first — but with some encouragement (and creative thinking), they found ways to enjoy new foods. One clever group wrapped a radish in spinach to make a “burrito,” and discovered they actually liked the spicy crunch!

A female students holds a toothpick after tasting produce

Adding to the excitement, we had special guest volunteers from ACF Chefs Las Vegas and CSN Culinary Club — Chefs Angela and Adam — who shared professional kitchen tips and tricks. The kids learned how to curl their fingers for safe cutting and even got to try out a spiralizer, turning fruits and veggies into fun, curly designs. One child used it to create watermelon “starfish” hiding in a bed of seaweed, while another made grassy strands for a flower garden masterpiece.

A male chef volunteer teaches a young male student proper knife cutting skills

A female chef volunteer teaches a young male student proper knife cutting skills

From teddy bear race cars to lions and butterflies, imagination was in overdrive. The kids worked side-by-side with real chefs, and it was hard to tell who was having more fun — the students or the chefs! Chef Adam even joined in the action, crafting his own sports car and a friendly snake to race along the table.

A male student shows off his teddy bear race car

A female student shows off her teddy bear race car

A big thank-you to Speedway Children’s Charities for fueling this fun day. In honor of their support, we carved the head of their mascot – Pit Boss from fresh produce — and one inspired student even created her own version, carefully shaping every curve to make it look “just right.”

A Pit Boss carved out of watermelon and other produce

A young student works to create her own produce Pit Boss

If you want to help make more healthy, hands-on memories like this possible, make a donation today. Together, we can keep kids racing toward brighter, healthier futures!