Culinary Arts Education: A Pathway to Success for Incarcerated Youth

By Chef Cinthia

The impact of training incarcerated youth in culinary arts is significant. Studies have shown that education can help to reduce recidivism rates, improve cognitive skills, and increase employment opportunities. Incarcerated youth participating in any educational programs are more likely to graduate from high school, attend college, and find employment after release. They are also less likely to commit crimes again.

Culinary arts education gives incarcerated youth the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. It provides the skills required to become more independent adults and the confidence they need in the workforce. It also helps them to develop a sense of purpose and hope for the future, which can help deter them from returning to crime.

Many of the incarcerated youth often come from disadvantaged backgrounds and may have experienced trauma and neglect. As a result, they may have difficulty with skills we take for granted, such as reading and writing. Culinary arts education can help improve these skills.

Culinary arts education can increase employment opportunities at local restaurants, hotels, and independent businesses. This gives them the skills and knowledge they need to compete for jobs in the food service industry. It also helps them develop a positive attitude and confidence towards work, making them more attractive to employers.

Here are some specific examples of the impact of teaching incarcerated youth:

• A study by the National Institute of Justice found that incarcerated youth who participated in educational programs were 43% less likely to recidivate than those who did not participate.

• A Vera Institute of Justice study found that incarcerated youth who participated in educational programs were likelier to graduate from high school and attend college.

• A Center for Economic and Policy Research study found that incarcerated youth who participated in educational programs were likelier to find stable employment after release.

These studies show that education can make a real difference in the lives of incarcerated youth.

Open Gate International student making fresh pasta.