Innovative Programs

DC Central Kitchen's Culinary Job Training Program

Mission/Goal of Program

DC Central Kitchen provides 14 weeks of Culinary Arts training to participants that leads to certifications, then helps them find employment in the culinary field so they can be self-sufficient. Founded in 1989, DC Central Kitchen’s mission is to use food as a tool to strengthen bodies, empower minds, and build communities. For almost 30 years, DC Central Kitchen’s Culinary Job Training program has helped more than 1,700 men and women launch culinary careers. The program had 86% job placement rate from among 104 graduates from Culinary Job Training program in 2018.

Programs/Services Offered

There are two training options offered: 

  • Culinary Job Training at DC Central Kitchen:  Their renowned training program provides culinary arts education, career readiness training, and real-world internships for adults who have experienced barriers to employment.  They provide 14 weeks of training leading to these certifications:
    • ServSafe Managers License
    • National Restaurant Association/ Restaurant Ready Certification
    • Allertrain Certification
  • Culinary Job Training at DC Central Kitchen Cafe:  provides hands-on culinary training and career readiness training to young adults ages 18-24 who are not in school and not working.
Start Date
Sunday, January 1, 1989
Type of Agency/Organization
Community-Based Organization
City
Washington
State
District of Columbia
Geographic Reach
Onesite
Clientele/Population Served
Participants with multiple barriers to employment, including returning citizens, people in recovery, formerly homeless, and others.
Topics/Subtopics
Employment
Education and Training