Behind every warm, nourishing meal served at Stepping Stone is the heart and hustle of our Cafeteria Manager, though he prefers the title “Food Wizard,” Jason Lehmann. With over three decades of experience in food service at Universities, Jason left behind the sprawling commercial kitchens and corporate culture to find purpose in a very different setting.
“When I worked for worldwide corporations, I was just a number, I was overworked and underappreciated” Jason shared. “I was ready for something more meaningful. I saw this job posting and knew right away. This was it. I’d get to help people, be creative, and make a real difference.”
Jason’s creativity is essential. With no ventilation hood, no flat top or fryer, and just an oven, warming box, and two induction burners, he whips up meals for more than 60 residents daily. Donations roll in from local schools, businesses, and generous individuals, and Jason finds a way to transform whatever shows up into a hot, satisfying meal.
Despite the challenges, including tight storage, long walks to the storeroom, and limited equipment, Jason thrives. His reasons? “I get to listen to my own music. I work with kind volunteers. I’m empowered to run my kitchen. I get to be creative. And most importantly, “I am part of a team that helps people through one of the toughest times of their lives.”
Jason lives in Elk River with his wife, Katie, a biology teacher. Their sons, Cameron and Wesley, keep them busy with ROTC, music production, and high school basketball. Jason’s proud of the meals he makes, but he’s even prouder of the thank-yous he receives daily. “People don’t have to say it, but they do. That means something.”
Want to help Jason serve up compassion one plate at a time? Donate a meal, serve one, or pitch in on supplies. You’ll leave feeling full in more ways than one.