Culinary Course Helps Women Achieve

Congratulations to seven women who are celebrating completing their culinary skills training program, a collaboration between CareerSource South Florida and the Agape Network. The transformative course is designed to empower women facing challenges such as substance abuse or poverty through a holistic approach to help them “rebuild their lives, develop new skills and enter the workforce with a fresh sense of purpose.”

“This program has been life-changing for these women,” said Rick Beasley, executive director of CareerSource South Florida. “Many of these women are mothers, juggling the responsibilities of caregiving while working hard to improve their mental health. This key intervention has not only opened doors to new opportunities but has also brought about a dramatic shift in their lives for the better.”

The graduation ceremony at Agape marked another successful completion of the regionally recognized eight-week culinary training course. Upon graduation, CareerSource South Florida stepped in to connect the women with local employers. Five of the graduates had secured employment offers even before receiving their diplomas, giving them the security of earning a degree and beginning a new job at the same time. but has also brought about a dramatic shift in their lives for the better.”

“I encourage other women struggling with substance abuse to reach out toAgape and explore their options,” said one program participant. “For me,overcoming mental health challenges was the first step toward wanting to getan education. Both were about seeking help, advocating for yourself and beingdetermined. Through this program, I’ve found a new career and a renewedsense of purpose.”

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OP-ED

South Florida must address a workforce skills gap that could slow economic momentum | Opinion

As we reflect on South Florida’s remarkable economic growth in 2024, it is clear that we are at a pivotal moment.

Job creation in Miami-Dade has consistently outpaced state and national averages and unemployment has dropped to historic lows. Our economy is resilient, and our workforce is growing stronger every day.

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South Florida Business Journal: CareerSource South Florida launches culinary training program for residents of Agape Network

CareerSource South Florida has launched a Culinary & Catering Employment Training Program that aims to teach underprivileged Miamians essential job skills for the restaurant industry.

The Miami-based workforce development organization launched the program Sept. 6. Up to 45 participants will receive comprehensive hospitality training during an eight-week course, which includes 200 hours of culinary instruction and customer service coaching.

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The Miami Times: Op-Ed article “Celebrating
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The Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce and President Eric Knowles kicked off Black Business Month by hosting a Tri-County Chambers’ Reception at The Historic Lyric Theater earlier this month.
(Courtesy of Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce)

August is Black Business Month, a time to honor and celebrate the profound impact of Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs across the United States. Since its establishment in 2004 by historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E. Jordan Sr., this month has highlighted the vital contributions of the Black community in driving our national economy. However, it also serves as a crucial reminder of the persistent disparities that Black-owned businesses face, especially in a dynamic hub like Miami, where the need for equitable opportunities is more urgent than ever.

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