Landmark year saw  the foundation build on its commitment to attract, empower, and advance today’s and tomorrow’s restaurant leaders.
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WASHINGTON, DC – April 13, 2022 – Today, the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) released its 2021 Impact Report, a comprehensive overview of the Foundation’s development results, programs, events, leadership and governance. The report also recognizes the organizations, companies and individuals that share the Foundation’s mission to improve the industry and create opportunities for restaurant workers from all backgrounds.

“Our workforce is the backbone of the restaurant and hospitality industry, and 2021 was a monumental year in the NRAEF’s work to provide current and future restaurant workers with the skills, training and education they need to build successful futures,” said NRAEF President Rob Gifford. “We are grateful for our donors, who have invested in our efforts to uplift the people and stories who are so integral to our industry.”

The NRAEF’s 2021 Impact Report highlights the fundraising milestones and its programmatic commitment to helping restaurant workers access the training and education they need to secure a better future.

Highlights from the report include:

• Nearly 145,000 students currently enrolled in ProStart, a two-year culinary arts and restaurant management program offered in all 50 states
• 320 students who received $1 million in scholarships for higher education in restaurant, foodservice and hospitality careers
• More than 1,800 restaurant employees enrolled in the Restaurant & Hospitality Leadership Center for career advancement
• 435 more individuals who participated in Restaurant Ready training

In 2022, the NRAEF continues to prepare high school students for restaurant jobs and careers through ProStart; offer scholarships to individuals building a future in restaurants; help military transition into the industry; provide opportunities for employers to advance their employees through the Restaurant & Hospitality Leadership Center; and build pathways to independence for justice-involved individuals through the HOPES job skills training and mentoring program.

To learn more about the National Restaurant Foundation Educational Foundation visit ChooseRestaurants.org.