Transforming Lives Through Culinary Training
Root empowers at-risk youth with job skills while addressing food insecurity in our community.
Your Impact
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Our Culinary Training Program
We provide a comprehensive 14-week culinary training program for young adults ages 16-26 facing barriers to employment.
Professional Culinary Skills
Over 200 hours of hands-on training led by professional chefs, including food prep, cooking techniques, and kitchen safety.
Industry Certifications
Students earn their ServSafe Food Handler and Allergen Awareness certifications, plus valuable workforce readiness skills.
Job Placement Support
Paid externships, job coaching, and connections to local employers help graduates launch their culinary careers.
Our Community Impact
Root addresses two critical community needs simultaneously: youth employment and food insecurity.
Community Catering Initiative
Our Community Catering program produces over 700 nutritious meals weekly for local human service agencies like Lifebridge, Salem Food Pantry, and Senior Care, while providing valuable work experience for our graduates.
Alumni Success
Our graduates have gone on to work at respected restaurants, bakeries, and food service operations throughout the North Shore. Many have advanced to leadership positions, while others have pursued further education.
Read Alumni Success Stories"Root gave me professional skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose. I'm now working as a line cook and planning to continue my culinary education."
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Transparency Commitment
Root has earned the Gold Seal of Transparency from Candid
We're committed to transparency and accountability. Your donation goes directly to supporting our programs and the youth we serve.
Support Our Mission
Your contribution helps us transform lives through culinary training while feeding our community.
Make a Donation
Your Impact
$25 Monthly
Provides a transportation stipend for a student to access our program for a month
$50 Monthly
Covers the cost of test prep and certification materials for a student
$100 Monthly
Helps a student obtain their driver's license, increasing their employment opportunities
$250 Monthly
Sponsors a student's two-week paid externship at a local restaurant or food business
Other Ways to Support
Our Culinary Training Program
Are you 16-26 years old and interested in starting a culinary career? Our 14-week training program could be your path to success.
Program Highlights
- Free 14-week culinary program with industry-recognized certifications
- $1,200 stipend to help with expenses during training
- Job placement assistance with local employers
- Supportive environment with experienced chef instructors
Applications are accepted for Winter/Spring, Summer, and Fall cohorts
Get in Touch
Have questions about our program or how you can support Root? We'd love to hear from you!
Visit Us
Salem, MA
North Shore
Email Us
info@rootns.org
Call Us
978-616-7615
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