Looking for Work?
Do you want to work in the food service industry?
Inspiration Corporation offers a free, 12-week Food Service Training and Employment Program with paid training opportunities here at the Inspiration Kitchens restaurant! This program is for anyone 18 years of age or older who is interested in a sustainable career in the food service industry.
What does training include?
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Hands on learning with Chef Instructors
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ServSafe® Food Handler Certification
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Kitchen Safety knowledge
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Culinary techniques
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Resume assistance
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Job search support
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A four-week paid training period
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A four-week optional paid transitional job available after program completion!
How do I apply?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so please include all requested documents when you fill out your form.
To start your enrollment process, please click below to fill out the contact form. A member of our staff will reach out to you soon!
Questions? Scroll down for FAQ's or fill out the contact form and we will reach out to answer any questions you may have!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible?
In order to be eligible for training, you must be: 18 years of age or older, low income, available to train 4 days per week in person, and interested in full time employment in the food service industry upon graduation.
How do I enroll?
Please fill out the contact form below. After completing the form, a staff member will reach out to you with dates to attend an information session held via Zoom.
How much does the program cost?
The program is FREE. You will be provided with a pair of non-slip kitchen shoes, uniform and transportation assistance (CTA 7-day or Speedway Fuel Card) throughout the training program.
What will I learn?
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There will be lessons and resources on kitchen and knife safety, proper sanitation practices, culinary concepts, language, and techniques.
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You will work with our program staff and receive career development skills ranging from resume writing to interview practice.
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All participants will also receive help earning their ServSafe Illinois Food Handler Certificate.
What is the training schedule like?
Monday – Thursday – 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Weeks 1–4)
Paid Transitional Job/training
Tuesday – Friday – 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Weeks 5–8)
Wednesday – Saturday – 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Weeks 9–12)
Where is class held?
Training will take place in person, four days per week, at our social enterprise restaurant in East Garfield Park (3504 W Lake St). The days are a mix of classroom style learning and hands on experience in the kitchen.
What kinds of jobs are available?
Ideally, we hope to place you in employment within 30 days of graduation. Typically, graduates of our program are placed in entry-level roles like prep or line cook, dishwasher, or porter positions. Some of our employer partners include: Garfield Park Hospital, Urban Belly, and Eataly!
Certifications
Participants have the opportunity to earn their ServSafe Food Handler Certificate during the program. Graduates of the program will be eligible to earn their ServSafe Manager’s Certificate which is offered quarterly.
Additional Services
Throughout the program and after graduating, participants will have access to our team for employment services and continued resource connections.
