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CleanSlateLA
Gang Violence Recovery, Rage Resolution, Financial Literacy and Tattoo Removal Program
A 501 (c) 3 not for profit
Presents
CleanPlate

CleanPlate is an intensive culinary arts program designed to provide not only job training in the field of food services, but a full range of social, community and economic services for those who would not have access to a formal culinary arts education.

Food service is one of the largest industries in California and is the employment entry for many disenfranchised people. With an education and formal training, food services can offer financial opportunities and career paths that can greatly improve the quality of life of those who have limited access to resources. First Course is designed to meet the demand of the industry while offering career opportunities for the community.

The CleanPlate culinary program is a rigorous six month course which meets twice a week. Participants will be taught the same classical French culinary education that is offered at prominent private culinary institutions and the colleges.

Students learn the necessary skills to work in food services and further their education by interning at local restaurants and hospitality agencies. Participants gain first hand knowledge of what it takes to work in the food services field.

Cooking professionally is not the only outcome of the program. Students gain a skill which will last them a life time and will have a positive impact on their families. Cooking healthy meals, shopping on a budget and proper nutrition are skills that anyone can benefit from and pass along to family and friends to improve health and quality of life. We are also doing a service in informing communities about the impact food and nutrition has on communities and the health of financially oppressed population who must battle diabetes and high blood pressure from an un-level playing field. It is no mistake that fast food franchises thrive in poorer communities while Whole Foods Markets and Gelsons are prominent in more financially privileged communities.

Education is the foundation of the program and participants will be provided with resources to achieve their academic goals and potential. Tutors, advisors and specialized classes are at the center of the program’s implementation. Our goal is not only to provide marketable job skills and training, but to also insure that each participant has the education to pursue their dreams in the future.

Community networking is an integral part of the program. Students will work with various members of the community to expand their culinary education and understand how all sectors of society can work together to achieve financial success and community building.

Participants are expected to be role models and provide services that improve their communities. Making nutritious food for the homeless, volunteering in hospitals, and providing healthy cooking workshops for new mothers are just a few of the opportunities the participants will have to encourage leadership and community involvement.

The unique component of CleanPlate is the entrepreneurial opportunity that each participant will have once they complete the program. Students will be prepared to create and take on ownership of a catering company of their own. Finding employment is and important life skill, but creating your own financial opportunities is a life lesson that can have a positive outcome for the individual, their family and their community. CleanPlate is dedicated to creating culinary opportunities that will change lives.

First Course was created in 2004 by Desmonette Hazly MSW Ph.D.; Desmonette has offered her expertise to launch the CleanPlate Culinary Course which is a CleanSlate Inc. program that is a part of an innovative community and economic development company, Odissi International. Odissi International recognizes the importance of “Building a Better World responsibly” and creates opportunities for financial growth and stability for those who lack resources and access to typical avenues of education.

We ask that community support this effort which will be providing this next six-month course in the communities of Santa Fe Springs, Whittier, Pico Rivera and Norwalk collectively known as the Rio Hondo Corridor which is impacted by gang violence, poverty and poor health. We are asking for a contribution of any amount to send six students through the six month course. This is a 100% tax deductible contribution that will change the course of lives and the health of communities. While the course has a cost of $2,500 per person we have received food contributions and donated space and the support of many caring individuals to supplement the true cost of the course.

Sincerely,

Marianne Diaz,
Director and Founder