After School Snack Revolution

Trying chickpea bars!

Spring Forward knows the importance of nourishing both the minds and bodies of its students in the after school program, which is why Executive Director Dan McNeil approached Rock Island’s NEST Cafè to help provide an alternative to the common after school snack at the Rock Island Academy. “During Spring Forward time after school, we are in charge of their health as well and want to encourage students to make healthier choices and open them up to more options besides the standard after school snack fare.” 

Laura Mahn, Executive Director of NEST Cafè in Rock Island is dedicated to revolutionizing school snacks and understands the importance of instilling healthy eating habits early in life. With recipes like chickpea bars, or protein covered popcorn, or handmade blueberry pop-tarts, the snacks are thoughtfully curated to provide essential nutrients and energy, ensuring that children have the fuel they need to thrive both academically and socially. 

According to NEST Cafè Head Chef Elly Voss, it’s a simple philosophy that results in an “exceptional” snack. By incorporating fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other nutritious ingredients, the Spring Forward / NEST Cafè partnership are fostering healthy eating habits from an early age, laying the foundation for a lifetime of wellness. Together, they are not only nourishing bodies but also nurturing futures, one healthy snack at a time.

The after school snacks program is possible thanks to support from the Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation. Spring Forward and NEST Cafè staff are exploring opportunities to expand to all after school sites for the 2024-25 school year. If you are interested in supporting this effort or learning more, please contact Laura Mahn at nest.cafe.qc@gmail.com