After graduating from Second Harvest’s 16-week Culinary Training Program, 470 inspiring individuals have started new careers and turned the page to new life chapters. The program is only the beginning for these hardworking graduates. What comes next for them is to apply the new kitchen and life skills learned during their training. Penielle, a recent graduate, says, “I plan … [Read more...] about Always Learning: Seeking growth after graduation
opportunity
Cooking Up a New Career
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida's Culinary Training Program is more about the people than it is about the food. The program's purpose and mission is to provide adults facing various housing, employment and financial barriers with the skills needed to succeed in a new career in culinary arts. "I don't have to live wondering what's going to happen," says … [Read more...] about Cooking Up a New Career
Celebrating New Careers as 13 Students Graduate from Culinary Training Program
On Saturday, January 13, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recognized 13 Culinary Training Program students during a graduation ceremony. Food bank staff, family, friends and employers joined the festivities to celebrate students from classes 50 and 51 for their achievement. Over 16 weeks, students learned hands-on food preparation and gained kitchen training similar … [Read more...] about Celebrating New Careers as 13 Students Graduate from Culinary Training Program
Sharpening Skills for a Brighter Future: Stacey’s Story
Stacey's journey unfolded in a series of chapters, each with its own unique challenges and revelations. She relocated to Orlando with aspirations of higher education, but the abrupt shift to online classes due to the pandemic posed unexpected difficulties. Her once-stellar GPA plummeted, casting a shadow over her scholarship. Trying to find a next step, Stacey briefly worked … [Read more...] about Sharpening Skills for a Brighter Future: Stacey’s Story
Bruce’s Story
Bruce never considered a career in food service until he cooked alongside a chef at a local rehabilitation center. That experience sparked a passion for cooking within him. That pivotal moment inspired him to enroll in Second Harvest Food Bank’s free Culinary Training Program. Over 16 weeks, Bruce and his classmates learned food safety, knife skills, and how to work in a … [Read more...] about Bruce’s Story