At the Southern Adirondack Education Center, students in the BOCES Culinary Arts Program were honing their skills on Friday.

"This program has been amazing," said Jonathan Maniacek, a culinary arts student. "I am cooking, I am getting better, I am practicing."

The students were also living out their passion for cooking.

"I have learned a lot more recipes," said Hailey Clark, another student. "I really feel like baking is my thing. The best part is seeing the satisfaction of my family, them just knowing that I did it and me knowing that I did it."

"If it is good and you like it, you are proud of yourself. You feel good about yourself," Maniacek said.

The students, about 45 split between two sections, are also looking out for those less fortunate. 

"That is what we are doing here; we are always helping people," Maniacek said.

"The kids take a lot of pride in their work, and they really have that great sense of feeling what it’s like to give back to the community through these projects," said Chef Matt Young, the instructor.

All week, they've been preparing dozens of turkeys and desserts for the annual Hometown Thanksgiving in Glens Falls. Co-President Jimi Grimmer says the meal serves upwards of 1,400 people each year. 

"It is a meal that's not just for people that need a meal, but it’s also for people that need someone to just spend time with during the holidays," Grimmer said.

Local college students are getting in on the giving, too.

"We are really community-oriented around here," said SUNY Adirondack Culinary Arts student Dillon Brooks.

Brooks, a senior, and his classmates at SUNY Adirondack are cooking and preparing more than 30 turkeys for Hometown Thanksgiving.

"I really like giving back to the community, and just knowing this food helps brighten someone’s day," Brooks said.