James Pendleton 

GRM’S Worknet program, under the leadership of Ellis Hodges, provided an opportunity for one of its 4th phase clients, Mr. James Pendleton, to participate in a 12 week culinary arts training program. The training course follows a curriculum designed by DC Central Kitchen’s own training staff and includes all facets of entry-level work that would be experienced in a professional kitchen. The program includes “hands-on” training instructed by staff chefs, while visiting chefs volunteer to provide ongoing training seminars that teach specific skills in the culinary arts. The training and employment staff teach the importance of job-readiness skills such as punctuality, following directions, positive work attitude, and teamwork. Individual and group sessions provide life skills training to further students’ personal growth. All graduates of the Kitchen’s training program complete the ServSafe course, a nationally recognized food handler’s certification course from the Educational Foundation of the National Restaurant Association.

This great privilege afforded to Mr. Pendleton allowed him the opportunity to enhance the gifts and ability he has to cook, something that he enjoys immensely. In his words, this was an awesome learning experience to captivate his hearts desire in a professional working environment which he enjoyed working with other colleagues with the same interest. He learned key life skills as it regards this area of work; discipline, attitude and most importantly teamwork are key components in this field of work. He also mentioned the opportunity to work with professional chefs was very rewarding and offered a great learning environment for his craft.

During his training period, Mrs. Hodges and a guest were invited to experience one of the fine cuisines that Mr. Pendleton prepared, prior to his graduation from the program. One of his creative dishes was Irish Lamb Stew. He is presently employed as a Food services employee at a retirement home in DC. GRM celebrates with him and we are very proud of his success and opportunity to be a graduate from the program.

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