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Originally founded as an independent nonprofit, “Let’s Chow” was established in 2020 by U.S. Navy Lieutenant and Judge Advocate Jordan Foley ’07 to empower veterans and military spouses with culinary skills, providing a path to sustainable careers in the culinary industry post-service. Through its Food Truck Training Program (FTTP), “Let’s Chow” offers veterans and military spouses a full suite of support, including culinary and business training, marketing guidance, event booking, and one-on-one mentorship, equipping participants to launch and grow their own food businesses.

In just four years of independent operation, “Let’s Chow” donated more than 50,000 meals, delivered over 15,000 hours of training, and supported 50 veteran-owned businesses. The program currently operates food trucks in Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Loganville, GA; Philadelphia, PA; San Diego, CA; and Virginia Beach, VA—providing hands-on experience to participants while serving communities.

This year, “Let’s Chow” has taken an exciting step forward by partnering with the Robert Irvine Foundation as its official food truck program. This collaboration combines the culinary expertise and mission of “Let’s Chow” with the extensive support network of the Robert Irvine Foundation, which is dedicated to uplifting the well-being of service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. “Let’s Chow” now joins the foundation’s “Breaking Bread With Heroes” initiative, which serves meals to veterans and first responders in the U.S. and at military bases worldwide, fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection through shared meals.

Chef Robert Irvine, founder of the Robert Irvine Foundation and a passionate advocate for veterans, was deeply moved by Jordan Foley’s vision. “A few years ago, I met Navy Lieutenant Jordan Foley and was deeply inspired by the work he was doing with ‘Let’s Chow,’” Irvine shared in a press release about the partnership. “They have helped veterans heal and developed a training program that helps veterans learn the ins and outs of the culinary industry, ultimately guiding them to have successful businesses and teaching them how to operate food trucks. ‘Let’s Chow’ will now officially run within the Robert Irvine Foundation as our official Food Truck program. With your support, I know this program’s impact will continue to grow.”

The growth and success of “Let’s Chow” were supported by a close-knit team of Shady Side Academy alumni, including Charlie Magovern ’07, Zak Klinvex ’07, and Christina (Rath) Lamport ’07, who have each played a vital role in helping the nonprofit thrive. From strategic guidance to hands-on assistance, these SSA classmates have been instrumental in bringing Foley’s vision to life, demonstrating the power of enduring connections and shared values instilled at Shady Side.

The partnership between “Let’s Chow” and the Robert Irvine Foundation represents a significant step forward, expanding “Let’s Chow’s” reach and ensuring more veterans and their families can find hope and opportunity through food. SSA alumni continue to make an impact, turning shared values into legacies of service, resilience, and community.