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
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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