ProStart high schools across the country can win a $5,000 grant to expand their ability to educate the next generation of restaurant leaders, thanks to The Rachael Ray Foundation (RRF).
Through The Rachael Ray Foundation ProStart Grow Grant, the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) will provide up to 25 grants for ProStart schools or schools with culinary arts programs, demonstrating a strong need to engage and educate high school students interested in exploring restaurant and foodservice jobs and careers.
ProStart, a two-year technical education program focused on culinary arts and restaurant management, is offered in 1,700 schools across the country with 130,000 students enrolled. ProStart educators and coordinators have largely adapted to the COVID-19 restrictions with a mix of virtual and in-person learning, posing challenges for students to learn the hands-on skills the program often requires. Funding from RRF will offer schools with the opportunity to upgrade or purchase new resources, build up their classrooms in preparation for return to school, and support teachers with whatever they need to help their students learn career-building skills.
“ProStart is often the steppingstone for many budding chefs, aspiring restaurateurs and the future leaders of the restaurant and foodservice industry,” said Rachael Ray, award-winning television personality and philanthropist.
Over the past 15 years, more than 260 scholarships have been provided by Rachael Ray’s Yum-o! organization and the Rachael Ray Foundation, totaling $1.8M in support to NRAEF scholarships and ProStart.
Applicants have until 5 pm PST on March 1st, 2021 to complete their submissions for the NRAEF’s consideration. Learn more about ProStart here.
Visit ChooseRestaurants.org to apply today and learn more about the NRAEF’s work to attract, empower and advance today and tomorrow’s restaurant and foodservice workforce.
Edited by Maryssa Gordon, Senior Editor, Price of Business Digital Network
