“This is the 5^th community service project we’ve done with American Culinary Federation (ACF) members in San Diego,” advised San Diego Job Corps Culinary Arts instructor Howard Merrick.  Mr. Merrick, along with fellow Job Corps Culinary Arts instructor Richard Siegiel have been members of the organization for several years.  “ACF is a non-profit organization with over 39,000 members nationwide,” Mr. Merrick continued.  “We focus on providing information about the culinary arts field to young people.  Working with AFC allows students from Job Corps and other venues the opportunity to learn about the employment opportunities available to them, and to network with culinary arts professionals.”

In December seven Job Corps students helped AFC member Ricardo Vargas, Executive Chef for Feast on This Catering & Special Events in San Diego prepare food for people in need for the holidays.  “All of the community service we conduct during the year affords our students an opportunity to help the community and gain valuable “hands on” experience,” Mr. Merrick stated.  “Chef Vargas was so impressed with our students that several will begin interning with him in January.  The students are excited about the opportunity, and hope their work will lead to full-time jobs with his company or other companies in San Diego.”