Life's Kitchen

Life's Kitchen provides a comprehensive 16-week program designed for young adults (ages 16-20) facing employment challenges. The initiative focuses on transforming the lives of at-risk youth by fostering self-sufficiency and independence through extensive training in food service and essential life skills. Participants receive support in preparing for, securing, and sustaining employment, ultimately leading to financial independence. Accepted trainees attend the program Monday through Friday for 16 weeks, with daily sessions running from 8 AM to 4 PM. The curriculum includes hands-on food service training, life skills education, and employability preparation. Trainees collaborate with professional chef mentors in one of three training areas: café, catering, or contract foods. Culinary training covers topics such as sanitation, kitchen organization, food safety, knife skills, customer service, and menu planning. Participants earn the Idaho Safe Food Handler certificate and the National Restaurant Association's ServSafe Manager certification. Life skills training encompasses communication, problem-solving, financial literacy, and understanding community resources. Employability training includes resume writing, mock interviews, and job search strategies. Those without a high school diploma can access free GED tutoring and testing, while college credits are available for those pursuing culinary arts at the College of Western Idaho. The program is conducted in English. For intake procedures, please call.