Since 2013, Second Harvest's Culinary Training Program has offered adults facing barriers to employment with the culinary and life skills training needed to pursue full-time careers in the food industry. Take a behind-the scenes look in the video below: As a long-term solution to hunger, the continuing education program works to provide a foundation for sustainable … [Read more...] about Transforming 500 Lives… and Counting
kitchen
Celebrating New Careers and 500 graduates
On Saturday, November 9, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recognized 25 Culinary Training Program students during a graduation ceremony. This ceremony also celebrated the program's 500th graduate. Food bank staff, family, friends, and employers joined the celebration to recognize each student's achievements. In addition to learning hands-on food preparation and … [Read more...] about Celebrating New Careers and 500 graduates
“It’s Not a Job, It’s a Career.”
“I came in with absolutely no skills, and they taught me,” says Jeremy, reflecting on how far he’s come on his career journey. “And now I’m doing everything I wanted to do in the kitchen.” A health crisis and his mom’s death sent Jeremy into a tailspin. He lost his job and tried working odd jobs to provide for his growing family. He and his wife were expecting another child. … [Read more...] about “It’s Not a Job, It’s a Career.”
“Find your forte and perfect it.”
Second Harvest’s Culinary Training Program provides students facing barriers to employment with the hands-on technical kitchen experience and skills, setting them on a path to excel in life. During the 16-week program, guest chefs are invited to spend time with students to provide enrichment opportunities. These experiences, with new voices and perspectives, allow students to … [Read more...] about “Find your forte and perfect it.”
A Dream Come True
Derrick's culinary journey is a testament to the power of personal growth. His love for cooking, instilled by his grandmother, is the seed that blossomed into a passion. His first taste of the food service industry came as he unexpectedly found himself in a leadership role in a nonprofit kitchen. Reflecting on this challenging experience, Derrick sees it as a turning point that … [Read more...] about A Dream Come True
