Food & Drink
Nourishing those who nourish others
Behind every unforgettable meal is a chef with a story.
Yes, Chef! Behind the Apron™ began as a creative idea to showcase Lehigh Valley chefs through an artistic photo series and calendar. Founder and photographer Elaine Zelker set out in 2024 to celebrate local culinary talent by capturing the passions and personalities of chefs in their element. The photoshoots became immersive sessions where chefs shared their journeys, captured both as polished professionals and as their most authentic, vulnerable selves.
However, the inspiring project quickly evolved into something deeper, as the chefs’ stories revealed shared experiences. Today, Yes, Chef! Behind the Apron™ operates as a nonprofit dedicated to addressing mental health challenges within the culinary world, raising critical funds to combat food insecurity, and elevating the voices of local culinary professionals. Through powerful storytelling, chef-centered events, and community support, the nonprofit creates space for resilience and healing in a pressure-filled industry.
The initiative culminates each year in a signature fundraising showcase featuring raffles, chef tasting tables, an exclusive photography exhibition, and the annual calendar reveal. The 2025 showcase on December 9 at Bear Creek Mountain Resort has already sold out, but contributions continue to fuel programming throughout the year, including the Aprons Off! Retreats. These retreats offer chefs and hospitality workers a rare opportunity to step away from the kitchen and into a restorative environment, complete with massage therapy, holistic wellness experiences, education, and connection.
Since its inception, Yes, Chef! Behind the Apron™️ has made a profound impact locally by spotlighting the stories of more than 40 chefs. It has created forums for dialogue around wellness and recovery.
With a new podcast (EXPOSED: Behind the Apron) launching and expanded initiatives planned for 2026, Yes, Chef! Behind the Apron™ invites the community to help nourish those who nourish others. Donations fund chef retreats, mental health resources and subsidies, and ongoing projects that champion local culinary creatives.
Learn more or support the mission at yeschefbehindtheapron.com.
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