Carmen is guided by fate. When she was looking to reenter the workforce, she applied to Second Harvest’s Culinary Training Program.
“Why not? Maybe it’s for me,” Carmen says as she reflects on her initial interest and application. After all, she had prior experience working in food service. Enrolling in the program felt like a natural step after taking time away from her career to raise her family.
Undeterred by an initial setback, Carmen’s unwavering determination to join the Culinary Training Program shone through in her second application. “If it is for me, it is for me,” she said, believing a door would open if this were the right path for her.
Once enrolled, Carman began to flourish. She adapted quickly to the rhythm of the kitchen, steadily gaining confidence and self-assurance.
“Now I’m cooking from scratch,” Carmen explains with pride. “Before, I was finishing or reheating what someone else made.”
Over 16 weeks, the Culinary Training Program teaches students like Carmen the essential skills for a new career in food service. These include knife skills, mother sauces, cooking different cuisines, and multiplying recipes for large groups. In addition, the program exposes students to cuisines and cooking styles from different cultures. Hailing from Peru, Carmen knew the cuisine of her homeland. She discovered how other cultures prepare staples like rice and beans and more complex dishes through the program.
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity to reach my dreams,” Carmen says with heartfelt thanks, highlighting the profound meaning of the program in her life. The Culinary Training Program was not just a gateway to a job but a chance to follow her passion and build a better life, with the support of caring instructors who guided Carmen every step.
Carmen has transformed from a program participant to a culinary professional. She is leveraging the skills and support she gained from the program to carve a successful career at a local theme park. Her journey is a testament to the program’s impact, demonstrating how it helps individuals like Carmen realize their career aspirations and build the life they envision.
