Chicago, IL— May 2, 2008 – The Chicago Christian Industrial League (CCIL) honored six foodservice graduates on Monday, April 28, 2008.  Jamal Lucas, Tina McBryde, Patricia Pitre, Russell Reiter, Sonya Rodriguez and Taron Williams all successfully completed an intense nine week training program preparing them for jobs in the food industry.

In partnership with Aramark and the Mayor’s Office of Workforce Development (MOWD), CCIL’s kitchen training program has been stirring up excellent results by helping people secure jobs.  Since its inception in February 2006, the program is geared toward assisting non-violent, ex-felons who are 21 and older.

“This is a nine week training program and this was our ninth group to graduate.  What’s most impressive is everyone in this class passed their sanitation exam on the first try giving them certification with the State of Illinois and the City of Chicago Health Departments!  Their eagerness, willingness to learn and teamwork was energizing.  Our program is demanding and these trainees went above and beyond.  Mentoring them was a pleasure,” said Bob Joens, CCIL Foodservice Director.

Founded in 1909, CCIL restores families affected by poverty and homelessness by providing comprehensive programs and services that empower people to transform their lives and strengthen our community.  Learn more about CCIL by visiting the website at www.ccilworks.org or blog at www.ccil-2750.blogspot.com.

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