June 15, 2009 – Kate Lawson on Food Blog (detnews.com) – In these worrisome times when the economy is down and unemployment on the rise, we're all hurting but no more so than the charities and agencies that rely on our support.

But there are so many bright spots on the horizon, and even without a supportive bank account we're learing how to give of our time and energy to help those in need.

One shining example is that on June 25, Hiller’s Chef Peter Julian along with Hiller's Market will donate food, time and focus to teach high-risk girls at the Vista Maria’s Myriam House the art of nourishment at the Celebration of Cooking event.

Thanks to Julian and Hiller's, these girls will have the experience of kneading dough, spreading sauce and sprinkling cheese on their homemade pizzas as well as tossing fresh-grown greens in a big metal bowl and whipping fresh cream by hand to dollop over sweet summer berries.

They'll learn about preparing food from scratch and the importance of eating seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Residents and volunteers of Visat Maria, the 125-year-old largest private residential treatment center for high-risk adolescent girls, will enjoy a leisurely lunch party where everyone participates and everyone benefits.

“Creating something from nothing, making delicious food that nourishes body and soul, these are life lessons inherent in the preparation of food that I hope the girls will learn by getting their hands in the ingredients and celebrating together around the table,” says Julian. Ingredients will come from Hiller’s as well as from the Vista Maria garden, which the girls planted earlier in the season.

“When I can support an event like this, I know I chose the right business,” says Jim Hiller, CEO of Hiller’s Markets, Southeast Michigan’s oldest local grocery chain. “What a celebration of life. What a gift to be part of this.”

Vista Maria was founded in 1883 by the Sisters of the Good Shepherd. Terry Grahl of Enchanted Makeovers invited Chef Pete and Hiller’s Markets to participate in the June 25 event. Located in Dearborn Heights, Vista Maria serves girls from Southeast Michigan who have suffered abuse, neglect and other traumas.

The June 25 cooking event will also include a musical performance by Jill Jack and donations by many other fine Michigan companies.

“Growing up, my mother always cooked everything from scratch,” says Grahl. “Just being in the kitchen and watching her cook made me feel free to open my heart. I could tell by her body language how much she cared and truly loved us. This is what I want the girls to feel. The home-cooked meal, handmade aprons, Jill Jack’s version of ‘I hope you dance,’ special gifts from women across the country, beautiful tableware, fresh flowers and good food made from scratch will hopefully begin the process of awakening the magic in their souls.”

Founded in 1941, Hiller’s Markets operates seven stores dedicated to service, quality and selection. Its Summer 2009 Back-to-Basics program focuses on living large while spending small. Hiller’s is also devoted to promotion of and partnership with local companies and cottage industries; its stores feature Michigan products with special shelf tags.

Hiller’s has a long history of joining with community organizations" through its active Scrip card program, by donating food and money to local fundraising efforts and hosting specialty food fairs serving niche markets like gluten-free consumers. The company also has a long history of working with non-profits, including ALS of Michigan, Jewish National Fund, Gleaners Food Bank and Celebrities Against Autism.

“I am dedicated to working with good people and good organizations close to home,” says Hiller, whose groceries are located in Ann Arbor, Berkley, West Bloomfield, Northville, Plymouth, Commerce Township and Union Lake.