Chef John LaTour is on a mission to help families eat and live healthier. With a background in technology and culinary arts, he transitioned from a career at Microsoft to studying business, baking, and pastry arts, later graduating from Johnson & Wales Culinary School. After working in food service, he spent a decade teaching with Mecklenburg County’s Smart Start program and Central Piedmont Community College’s "Charlotte Cooks." In 2020, after relocating to Brunswick County, he launched *Healthy Families, Healthy Futures*, a nonprofit dedicated to nutrition education.
Shortly after, Chef John connected with EFNEP, forming a strong partnership with Brunswick County EFNEP Educator Angie Lawrence. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, they began offering outdoor cooking classes in 2021, combining hands-on food preparation with EFNEP’s nutrition curriculum. Their collaboration expanded to Migrant Education Program participants, Smart Start educators, and adult EFNEP classes. Chef John has also led 4-H youth cooking classes, trained staff, and supported food-related Extension programs across counties.
What sets Chef John apart is his generosity—he volunteers his time and expertise, strengthening EFNEP’s reach in the Southeast Region. From co-teaching at community events to assisting with the 4-H Chopped Challenge, his dedication makes a lasting impact. His contributions have earned him the *Golden Star Award*, a well-deserved recognition for his unwavering commitment to healthier communities. He is the Golden Star Award winner for the SE Region of the state. Only five of these awards are given each year! The Golden Stars of EFNEP are individuals, groups or agencies, both internal and external, who have significantly contributed to the county program. They provide on-going support to help the EFNEP Educator achieve the county program goals.
THANK YOU CHEF JOHN FOR ALL YOU DO!
