Stirring Up Good: Katie’s Passion for Food & Community

Katie Plowman joined Project Host in 2024, but her connection to our mission began long before. After volunteering with the HostMobile and supporting events behind the scenes, Katie officially became part of the team—and hasn’t looked back. With a deep love for food, community, and service, she brings infectious energy and passion to everything she touches. Whether she’s prepping meals, building relationships, or exploring Greenville’s local food scene, Katie embodies what it means to serve with heart.

What brought you to Project Host, and what excites you most about your new role?  

Having been able to work alongside Project Host in previous roles, I was very familiar with the organization and the good they do for the community. Spring of 2024, I started sporadically helping Chef Meredith on the HostMobile doing prep work, helping with caterings and truck gigs. Then, one day this spring Tobin called and asked if I would grab a cup of coffee. The rest is history!

I am so happy to be a part of the Project Host family. The work done here is beyond important for our community. Even after a long, tiring day full of running around, full of muck and mire, the impact Project Host has on people is so great, and it is an honor to be a part of it! Not to mention, being surrounded by incredible chefs and foodies all day long as a “home chef” and foodie myself, I am in awe every day of the food I see created and get to taste!

What was your very first job, and what did it teach you? 

My first job was at a dry cleaners at the age of 15. I worked at a satellite site where people would drop off/pickup, and I worked most afternoons by myself. It taught me responsibility for sure and how to work independently.   

If you could have dinner with any person, living or not, who would it be and why?

Anthony Bourdain. His passion for food and culture was immense and I have so much I want to talk to him about.   

What’s your go-to comfort food or favorite meal to cook? 

American Chop Suey. It is New England’s version of Goulash. Bad day, crappy weather, just not feeling great...something about it is pure comfort and always a go to.   

What’s a cause or value you’re really passionate about?

Feeding Children. Children should not have to worry about where their next meal will come from. Being able to provide healthy meals to children helps level the playing field so to speak for those who may not have the same kind of access to healthy foods. ALL children need and deserve nutritious food to develop and grow.   

Describe your perfect Saturday. 

I love to make my Saturday “rounds,” TR Farmer’s Market, Swamp Rabbit Grocery, Revival Butchery. Followed by a nice brunch or lunch somewhere local (have you tried the torta and birria ramen from Comal 864???) and an afternoon spent with friends and family. If someone invites me to their pool or out on a boat for the afternoon, even better! 

What’s a book, podcast, or show you’ve loved recently and would recommend? 

I love to collect cookbooks and one of my favorites is Afro – Vegan by Chef Bryant Terry. He puts an African spin on southern staples and gives them a vegan touch. Plus, he pairs each recipe with a book and album to be inspired by while cooking. He brings art and culture to preparing a meal.  

If you could instantly learn one new skill or hobby, what would it be?

Pickleball. It is on my list of new hobbies to try.   

Do you have a favorite local spot in Greenville—like a restaurant, park, or hidden gem?

Saigon Fast Food, best Pho in town! 

What does “community” mean to you? 

Community for me is where I am surrounded by like-minded individuals who come together to do better for each other and those around us. It is where I feel safe, heard, and supported. Community is not just where we physically live, but it is how we live with others.