OUR IMPACT

Custom programs that leverage the culinary arts to teach life-changing skills beyond the kitchen.

REACH ONE TEACH ONE

Culinary Concepts AB works with public and private organizations from hospitals and private schools to municipalities and criminal justice systems. We pride ourselves in securing scholarships and developing custom workforce training programs that benefit those individuals and communities who are often underserved or who need it the most.

The Phoenix Program

Transformative Opportunities Beyond Bars

Introducing the Phoenix Program, a partnership between Culinary Concepts AB and Virginia’s correctional facilities. This initiative empowers nonviolent offenders with culinary skills, life essentials, certifications, and job connections to reduce repeat offenses and aid their reintegration. Unemployment heavily influences recidivism, with over half of at-risk individuals returning to jail within 3-6 months. However, 90% of Phoenix Program graduates have secured employment post-release, saving taxpayers by decreasing the $31,000 annual incarceration cost per inmate. Launched in 2019, the Phoenix Program is dedicated to fostering community betterment and personal success. Together, we rise and rebuild lives, one success story at a time.

Over
HALF

of decarcerated individuals return to jail within 3-6 months, with unemployment playing a large factor

90%
of Phoenix
Graduates

successfully found employment upon release.

family photo

PARTNERING
WITH SCHOOLS

In 2019, Culinary Concepts AB partnered with Elk Hill School in Charlottesville, VA, to launch a specialized three-part training program for high school students with cognitive disabilities. Expanding to Charlottesville and Albemarle school systems, our programs use culinary arts to teach valuable, transferable skills. We go beyond cooking; we provide essential food-related skills, improve access to fresh food, and connect students from the soil to the plate, fostering an appreciation for food. Our kitchens are spaces for sharing and learning, helping students bridge the gap between their current situations and aspirations. Join us on this transformative journey to redefine food and nutrition education.

PROMOTING
WITH HEALTHY NUTRITION

Now more than ever, the Piedmont Region requires comprehensive training programs like our 4Fs Workshop Series to empower families and enhance family dynamics. This program focuses on four key areas: Farm, Food, Family, and Finance, and is particularly beneficial for families facing challenges, including those involved with the foster care system. The workshops help families forge strong relationships through food in a supportive environment that fosters social, emotional, and nutritional growth. Designed to attract mission-focused sponsors to strengthen community ties, each session is led by a professional chef who teaches using seasonal, farm-to-table ingredients to maximize each family’s food budget. The setting encourages open discussions on culture and cuisine, enabling families to prepare nutritious meals together.

People cooking

Partnership
Opportunities

Align your organization with CCAB’s 4F Workshops and make a lasting impact on families. Your sponsorship helps foster stronger family bonds through culinary education, enriching the community one kitchen at a time.

Families Cooking
Together

Step into the 4F Workshop with your loved ones and transform your kitchen into a space of learning and bonding. It’s more than just cooking; it’s about creating stronger connections and cherished memories.

Supporting Local
Farmers

Experience the flavors of Central Virginia in every dish. Our 4F Workshops feature ingredients sourced directly from local small farms, bringing the freshest, farm-to-table experience to your family’s culinary journey.

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There is a lot that goes into running a restaurant…I mean an extreme amount that I wouldn’t have even known if I didn’t take this class.“

– Lance Lemon, Co-owner Penny’s Wine Shop & 2023 EEP Participant

The EEP Program was very helpful to us…and came to us when we needed guidance the most. It showed us what was missing in our business and what more can be done to make it better.”

– Kajal Jessani, Khushbu

Had a great experience learning Knife Mastery from Ingrid. Very professional, friendly, flexible, and informative. Would recommend. Thanks Culinary Concepts AB!”

– Ben Cunningham

LET’S CONNECT

Interested in partnering with us to implement one of these programs? We would love to speak with you! Send us a message sharing your organizations needs and goals.

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