Merici Kitchen Project

Cooking Classes for Independence.

Adaptive education in the kitchen, building skills that foster independent living, with classes meeting in Lawrence and Carmel.

Upcoming Classes

How registration works.

We have updated our registration system. With our new digital calendar, classes are uploaded ahead of time so you and your family can plan ahead. Spring classes are available now, with the rest of 2026 to follow.

Choose a class on the calendar, register for it there, and pay online. Space is limited, so sign up early to get the date you want.

$60

Four-class bundle, per person

$30

Single session, per person, when available

Prices can vary for specialized or seasonal classes.

Participants preparing food together at a Merici Kitchen class

Where classes meet.

Lawrence

The Village of Merici
5707 Lawton Loop East Drive
Indianapolis, IN 46216

Carmel

St. Christopher Episcopal Church
1402 W. Main St.
Carmel, IN

At the Lawrence Farmers Market.

We work closely with a group of people we support to create products for sale at the Lawrence Farmers Market. From developing recipes and making the items to preparing packaging, setting up the booth, and selling directly to customers, participants experience the entire process. This hands-on approach offers valuable opportunities in cooking, customer service, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.

The booth runs about four times a year on Thursday evenings from 4 to 7 pm. Dates vary by season, so check the calendar for updates.

The Village of Merici booth at the Lawrence Farmers Market
Participants at a Merici Kitchen cooking class

Who is welcome.

Classes are open to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including both the individuals we serve and people from across the broader community. If you have questions about whether a class is a good fit, please reach out.

Will Worley, Merici Kitchen Manager

Meet Will Worley, Director of Community Impact and Strategic Initiatives.

In March 2025, we were thrilled to welcome Will Worley into his full-time role as Kitchen Manager, after spending a year coaching within the Village of Merici community. His passion for teaching, creativity in the kitchen, and dedication to supporting skill-building have already made a valuable contribution across our programs.

In 2025 Will focused on expanding and leading cooking classes at both our Carmel location and the Merici Village Apartments, helping participants grow in confidence, independence, and practical kitchen skills. He continues to grow the Merici Kitchen Project with fresh ideas, new classes, and expanded opportunities, welcoming not only the individuals we serve but people with disabilities from across the broader community.

Questions about a class.

If you have questions about a class, would like help registering, or want to talk through what to expect, please reach out.