The Westchester County Department of Correction and Aramark Food Service recognized four residents who graduated from a culinary training program at the Westchester County Jail. In partnership with Aramark, this ‘IN-2-WORK’ culinary certificate program requires eight weeks of vocational training, incorporating both in-class lectures and hands-on culinary training, totaling 40 hours of formal instruction. In addition to the hands-on culinary training, this program focuses on kitchen safety in food storage, preparation and serving. Students who successfully completed this formal training received a ServSafe certificate that’s recognized as the national standard in the food service industry. Through coordination with Aramark Food Service, graduating students will have access to a web portal of available employment opportunities, assistance with writing resumes and the availability of scholarships for further study.
In addressing the five graduates, Correction Commissioner Joseph K. Spano stated firmly: “At our agency, we don’t judge incarcerated individuals. From the moment someone is remanded into our care, we focus on assessment, treatment and the rehabilitation process. I thank and commend you for volunteering to participate in this program and many others offered at WDOC. Doing so demonstrates your commitment and desire to get on a better life path, and should greatly aid your transition when you return back to your family and community.”
Aramark District Manager Robert Love said: “Aramark Correctional Services is proud to continue its partnership with Westchester County in offering our IN-2-WORK programming to the residents of Westchester County Correction. For many years, this program has received tremendous support from Commissioner Spano and designated members of his team, including First Deputy Commissioner Nory Padilla and Assistant Warden Jeremiah Tejada. Working together, we have enhanced culinary aspects to the program, and feel that our graduates will have that much more to offer prospective employers when they re-enter the workforce. A special thanks to our local IN-2- WORK facilitator Chef Darnel Pierre and on-site Director Sharron Watkins for being instrumental in building and supporting the new program curriculum.”
Program participant Dominick Labarta said: “I look forward to using what I have learned in the future to meal prep and possibly get a job in a restaurant kitchen.”
Program participant Omar Green said: “The program was a wonderful experience full of knowledge, our instructor did a great job of teaching culinary skills. I love the fact that I can apply for a scholarship and that I can get my family involved in the program upon release.”
Program participant Lyle Long: “I really enjoyed the class and I think it helps inmates stay on a successful path upon re-entry.”
At the conclusion of the graduation ceremony, the twenty-five attendees from WDOC, Aramark and 914 United enjoyed meals prepared by the students.
The Westchester County Department of Correction is considered a national leader in the space, recognized for its robust rehabilitation program system and accreditation certifications through the American Correctional Association, the National Commission on Correctional Healthcare and the Prison Rape Elimination Act.
