Community partner Groundwork Kitchen trains neighbors looking to develop skills in culinary arts. One neighbor was recently hired at Yes Chef! at UMB’s SMC Campus Center.
In the Southwest Baltimore neighborhood of Pigtown, Shaun Hance’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of dedication and community. As a recent graduate of the Groundwork Kitchen culinary arts training program, Hance has started an exciting new chapter as a chef with Yes Chef!, the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) food vendor at the SMC Campus Center.
Groundwork Kitchen: Building Foundations
Groundwork Kitchen, an initiative by Paul’s Place, offers a comprehensive culinary training program to equip Baltimore residents with essential skills for the food service industry. The program blends classroom instruction with hands-on training, covering culinary techniques, food safety, and job readiness skills. Students earn industry-recognized credentials, such as the ServSafe Manager certification, opening doors to numerous employment opportunities.
Hance’s Journey
Hance’s story is one of resilience and ambition. His passion for cooking and desire for a better future led him to enroll in the program. Under the guidance of experienced chef trainers, Hance mastered everything from knife skills to menu planning. The program’s holistic approach, including life skills training and individualized case management, ensured Hance was well-prepared for the culinary world.
Hance has been a part of Groundwork Kitchen since completing the program in 2022. Groundwork Kitchen’s workforce development manager, Kelsey DiFatta, explains his recent relationship with the program.
“He has remained an engaged graduate and reached out to me for support with his job search when the place where he was working closed," DiFatta said. "Shaun was able to use program resources to get connected and showcase his skills, attitude, and motivation to get hired. We are proud of Shaun and happy to see him working with Yes Chef!"
Community Partnerships Make a Difference
Groundwork Kitchen has established partnerships with other community stakeholders, with UMB being just one. UMB Workforce Initiatives director Lisa Rawlings serves on the program’s advisory board.
Groundwork Kitchen also appreciates its partnerships with area employers like Yes Chef! DiFatta explains, “It has been wonderful partnering with Yes Chef! They have embraced Groundwork Kitchen's vision and offered valuable insight based on their combined years of experience in the industry and from owning a business. They have hosted multiple field trips for Groundwork Kitchen students and have even hired some of our graduates. We are so thankful for our partnership with Yes Chef!”
Looking Ahead
Hance’s success is a testament to how programs like Groundwork Kitchen can empower individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. His journey from a student in training to a professional chef here at UMB is an inspiration to all who aspire to make a positive change in their lives.
As Hance continues to grow in his career, he remains grateful for the support and opportunities provided by Groundwork Kitchen and Paul’s Place. His story highlights the impact of community-focused initiatives on individuals and the broader community.