EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — A well-known local program is stepping into a new era. The initiative formerly known as What’s Cooking has been reintroduced as Diana’s Dream: A Place for All, a move its founder says better reflects its mission to create a fully inclusive community space.
Founded by Audrey Weiner, the program began as a culinary instruction effort for individuals with developmental disabilities, with the vision of opening a café-style employment program. “It was given the name What’s Cooking relating to the concept of a café and food,” Weiner explained. “Now that we have a more set vision of making doggy treats and simple human foods, we decided on the name Diana’s Dream: A Place for All as the community-focused space we’ve been dreaming about.”
The new name honors Diana, Audrey Weiner’s daughter, whose story has inspired the program’s inclusive mission. Born at just 24 weeks and weighing 1 pound, 2 ounces, Diana was given only a 10 percent chance of survival. She has cerebral palsy, spastic diplegia, and, in her mother’s words, “has survived the unsurvivable because of her inborn determination. She is sweet and feisty and has a mind of her own. Her story motivates me to create more for her and people of all abilities.”
Over the years, the program’s offerings have grown far beyond cooking. Milestones include sensory art sessions in partnership with local artist Dana Winston, job training at Cozy Cup Café, and collaborations with the East Brunswick Public Library to provide social and learning opportunities.
According to its mission, Diana’s Dream is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive experience that empowers individuals of all abilities to work, socialize, volunteer, and learn. The program’s guiding values include celebrating diversity, creating equal partnerships with families, and fostering a culture of acceptance.
Looking ahead, Weiner hopes to secure a permanent location where “everyone can succeed and feel accepted and loved, while celebrating our differences and the ways they make us the same.”
Community members interested in getting involved or supporting Diana’s Dream: A Place for All can connect through its social media pages or reach out directly to the organization.
