Community, Culture, and Great Food: The New Vision Korean BBQ Challenge

On May 16, the Epicenter was filled with food, fellowship, and celebration as New Vision hosted the Korean BBQ Challenge alongside the Korean United Methodist Church of Koinonia from Fairfax, Virginia. Since partnering with New Vision earlier this year, the Korean Church has already played a meaningful role in strengthening community and sharing Korean culture here in West Virginia through events, ministry, and relationship-building.

The event brought together Prevention Works students, Boys Village residents, and church members into six teams competing to create their own Korean BBQ dishes with guidance from nationally known BBQ chef Brent Blackwell of 2B-Q. More than 50 families and community members attended the festivities, enjoying incredible food, teamwork, and cultural performances featuring traditional Korean music, dance, and instruments.

After the meal, the Spring Prevention Works cohort was recognized during a graduation ceremony, where students received official certificates celebrating their hard work and growth throughout the program. The day concluded with the announcement of the BBQ Challenge winners and a shared sense of gratitude for the community that made the event possible.

We are so thankful to everyone who helped make the day such a success—and yes, the BBQ was absolutely delicious.