Our Self-Supporting Model
How Root combines culinary training and social enterprise to create lasting impact.
Our Social Enterprise Model
Root utilizes culinary arts training as a pathway to employment for high-risk young adults, inspired by successful models like DC Central Kitchen and FareStart.
How It Works
Our social enterprise model allows us to:
- Create hands-on training opportunities in real-world food service environments
- Generate revenue to support our programs and reduce reliance on donations
- Address food insecurity in our community through meal production
- Build valuable partnerships with local businesses and organizations
"Root offers a practical culinary approach to connect local youth with an opportunity to succeed."
Our Social Enterprise Initiatives
Root operates multiple food-related businesses that provide training opportunities while generating revenue to support our mission.
Catering by Root
Our professional catering service offers delicious, locally-sourced food for social events, corporate gatherings, and private parties. Students and graduates gain valuable experience while working alongside our culinary team.
Custom menus available for any occasion
HarborPoint at Root
Our flexible event space in downtown Salem offers a beautiful venue for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. With harbor views and convenient parking, it's the perfect location for your next event.
Accommodates up to 100 guests
Community Catering
Our Community Catering initiative raises philanthropic funds to provide locally-sourced, nutritious meals to social service agencies and food pantries across the North Shore, helping to address food insecurity.
700+ community meals produced weekly
Creating a Sustainable Impact
Our self-supporting model allows us to create lasting change by combining training, employment, and community service.
Self-Generated Revenue
of our operating budget comes from our social enterprise initiatives.
Alumni Employed
through our catering operations and community kitchen.
Community Meals
served annually to address food insecurity in our community.
Community Partners
working with us to address workforce development and food access.
Support Our Self-Supporting Model
While our social enterprise initiatives generate significant revenue, philanthropic support remains crucial to our ability to serve youth who face the greatest barriers to employment.
Ways to Engage
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Corporate Partnerships:
Sponsor a cohort, hire graduates, or engage your team in volunteer opportunities.
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Host an Event:
Choose HarborPoint at Root for your next corporate gathering or special occasion.
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Sponsor Community Meals:
Fund meals for those in need while providing training opportunities for our students.