Brief summary of episode:

Groundwork Kitchen, home of Paul’s Place’s culinary arts training program and restaurant located in Baltimore City’s Pigtown community, celebrated the graduation of its first cohort of students on December 21st. This first cohort of students, who range in age from 18 years old to early-60s, participated in the free 12-week program and will now enter Baltimore’s workforce.

“We have watched the students grow tremendously over the last 12 weeks, gaining the skills needed to be successful in the culinary field while also building confidence and finding purpose and self-pride,” said William McLennan, executive director of Paul’s Place. “This is really what the program is all about, building a workforce of skilled personnel while building up Baltimore.”

Since the start of the program in October, the students have learned front-of-house and back-of-house skills from a dedicated staff including Training Chef Shavonya Bracken and Executive Chef Kimberly Triplett, and upon graduation, will have earned industry-recognized credentials.

Program Director Ellen Levy oversees recruitment, case management services and job placement and retention services for the training program. “Paul’s Place provides additional resources to participants post-graduation to ensure the students’ success. Over the last few weeks, we’ve worked with them to help plot their next steps, targeting permanent employment in Baltimore’s restaurants, hospitals and catering businesses.”

Through the program, it is anticipated that Paul’s Place will provide 122 jobs and nearly $12.2 million in annual economic activity to the City of Baltimore, according to an economic impact study by Sage Policy Group that the organization commissioned in 2018. To help get there, Paul’s Place is actively recruiting for its next cohort, which will kick off in January.

ABOUT Groundwork Kitchen

Groundwork Kitchen’s program, operated by Paul’s Place, is founded on the nationwide initiative of FareStart’s Catalyst Kitchens, a proven model implemented in nearly 60 other facilities across the country. The program utilizes four integral program components: culinary skills training, life skills training, hands-on experience, and individualized case management support and coaching throughout training, job placement, and for six months after students begin their post-graduate careers.

The Truth In This Art
The Truth In This Art is a podcast interview series supporting vibrancy and development of Baltimore & beyond's arts and culture.

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Groundwork Kitchen

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