So, you like food, too?

My name is Steve and I've been involved in the food service industry my whole life. Most recently I launched a gourmet cheesecake business in Chicago's Southwest suburbs and the response has been terrific. One of the most significant challenges has been finding a suitable location for commercial cooking and baking.

DID YOU KNOW: You can prepare food in your kitchen, but you can't sell it.

Due to health department regulations, food intended for commercial sale must be prepared in specially designed facilities that pass rigorous inspections. The cost of operating a commercial kitchen is often prohibitive to start-ups and professionals alike.

Let's make commercial cooking accessible.

The next nearest commercial kitchen is over 26 miles away from our target community. In a 10-mile radius of our expected location, there are a half million consumers who buy food products and dozens of budding entrepreneurs trying to start a food-related business.

A dream to help others find success.

A new, state-of-the-art shared use commercial kitchen in this area will create new jobs, support small businesses, fuel the economy and most of all, put smiles on people's faces. But, I need your help. There are many items that must be purchased before our kitchen can open.

Equipment, construction, food product, utilities, permits and other professional fees add up. I'm seeking your help to make this dream a reality. 

Help me to help others, and I'll reward you.

Pledge any amount on the right side of this page, and receive the reward described. While some of these have tangible value, the biggest reward will be in knowing that you are being involved in a local, community project to bring high-end kitchen capabilities to regular people.

Helping not your thing? How about sharing?

Even though any amount you give is desperately needed, I recognize that not everyone can dig into their wallets. So, please, share this page with your friends, family, and neighbors. Only through the strength of local communities can we make a difference.

• Share this page on Facebook and Twitter
• Tell people you know who cook or bake for others

Thank you!