CCIL, Aramark and the Mayor’s Office of Workforce Development (MOWD) have found the recipe for successfully helping individuals turn their lives around – a foodservice training program targeting non-violent ex-felons.  CCIL was awarded a grant to establish training programs specifically targeting non-violent, ex-felons who are 21 and older.  Since its inception in February 2006, the kitchen training program has been stirring up excellent results by helping people secure jobs in the foodservice industry.

The Process:

• Applicants express an interest in the foodservice industry and apply for the program;
• Applicants  are evaluated by CCIL case managers;
• Professional interviews are conducted by CCIL and Aramark instructors;
• Nine week training program begins;
• Foodservice examination administered;
• Graduation upon completing the program;
• Job placement

Upon passing the exam, students become certified with the National Restaurant Association which also makes them eligible for certification with the State of Illinois and City of Chicago.  These essential credentials make students more marketable for employment.