Meet Mikey

Discovering Confidence and Community

Scarborough, ON — For years, Mikey’s mom wondered what the future would hold for her son. Diagnosed with autism at age four, Mikey often felt isolated and unsure of where he fit. Today, through The Raw Carrot kitchen at OneChurch, he is gaining confidence, friendships, and a place where he truly belongs.

“We were told Mikey was very low in a lot of things,” his mom shares. “But I said, ‘No, God doesn’t make any junk. He’s unique. I’ll find what he’s good at and support him.’”

Cooking became that spark. During the pandemic, Mikey started experimenting in the kitchen, inspired by TikTok videos. “It gave us so much happiness and hope,” his mom says. “We thought, maybe this could be something he could do for a living.”

Traditional culinary programs proved overwhelming, but OneChurch’s Raw Carrot kitchen offered a different kind of environment, one built on patience, encouragement, and support. “The staff here all struggle with something, but they’re happy, secure, and supported. That’s what makes this kitchen different,” she explains.

Since joining the team, Mikey has grown in confidence and independence. “I’ve seen a huge transformation in him. He’s discovered what it means to have friends and a safe place where he’s accepted for who he is.”

For his mom, volunteering alongside him has been a blessing too. “God multiplied the joy. I get to support Mikey and also help other staff flourish. It’s truly a blessing to be part of this community.”

Stories like Mikey’s show that when someone receives a hand up through supported work and a place to belong, they thrive. We invite you to get involved to help create more opportunities in even more communities across Canada.