The Abbey Group has partnered with Capstone Community Action in an effort to support the Community Kitchen Academy program that they host.

Capstone is a local nonprofit that provides comprehensive services to help Vermonters’ achieve economic well-being with dignity. Capstone is also working to develop partnerships that strengthen Vermont communities. They are committed to alleviate the suffering caused by poverty, to work with individuals and families to move out of poverty, and to advocate for economic justice for all Vermonters.

Community Kitchen Academy (CKA) prepares underemployed and unemployed Vermonters for a career in the food service industry and lifelong learning through an intensive program of culinary skills development, career readiness and job placement. Students actively develop and apply new skills by creating wholesome meals for those at risk of hunger using food that has been gathered from within our communities that may otherwise go to waste.

Upon graduation, students are well positioned to obtain a job in the food service industry and are ServSafe certified, a recognized food service industry standard. They develop valuable life and professional skills through the program including goal establishment, résumé writing, interviewing skills, conflict management and budgeting. Additionally, CKA graduates can receive nine college-level academic transfer credits from the Vermont State College of External Programs.