Root’s fifth cohort graduated on November 1st, 2018.
This fantastic group of young people has a diverse set of goals and aspirations, from finding full-time employment in the restaurant industry to finishing a GED to finding a part-time restaurant job and applying to North Shore Community College.
Beyond the culinary skills they've mastered and the ServSafe certifications they've earned, these young people grew as individuals through their experience at Root. We are incredibly proud of the risks they all took in the kitchen, in the classroom, and out in the field on their externships. As we heard from some who shared their experience with the family and friends gathered at graduation, "I've done things I never would have been able to do without Root.... Every single task I thought I was unable to overcome was eventually conquered," said Aine. That sentiment was echoed by Emily, who added, “Now that Root has ended, my next step is to get a job at a restaurant or bakery in Salem. I want to thank Beth, Mike, Chef Sam, and Scott for giving me a chance to work here and being there for me when I needed it most. I couldn’t have made it through some of the most nerve-wracking activities like the mock interviews without your motivation and encouragement."
