We've officially kicked off the new year with the 22nd cohort of our foodservice vocational training program. We welcomed this class of two on January 19, and they're making great progress under the instruction of Colin, our Director of Operations and Training.
Colin has had an extensive career in foodservice, including 23 years in management and training at Zippy's. Upon joining Touch A Heart, he developed our curriculum and has continued to pursue his passion for training. He recently gave the cohort different ingredients and asked them to make something. At first, they were taken aback and unsure of themselves, but they soon realized that they do indeed have the ability to cook. Colin's approach enables them to develop both hard skills in the kitchen and personal development, like confidence, creativity, trying new things, learning from mistakes, and changing their mindset.
We truly enjoy working with each and every cohort member and love building relationships with them.
Evalina previously worked at a restaurant and helped run her family's business. She's excited about our program and learning about different foods and how to prep.
Nicholas has a background in tree-trimming and became interested in Touch A Heart to gain skills that will help him find different opportunities. He's currently working as a meat cutter and is looking forward to this journey and acquiring new knowledge.
During our eight-week program, participants receive hands-on culinary training, develop hard and soft skills, and prepare for and take the Hawaii Department of Health Food Handler Certification exam. The cohort will also help to prep and pack Kupuna and Family Meals on Wednesdays, and they sharpen their knife skills in food prep on Thursdays and Fridays. We also assist all trainees with resume-writing, interview preparation, and job placement.
Thank you for your continued support that makes all of this possible. Together, we're transforming lives, one heart at a time.
Welcome, Cohort 22!
