Edwins Leadership & Restaurant Institute gives formerly incarcerated adults a foundation in the culinary and hospitality industry while providing a support network necessary their long-term success. Their mission is to teach a skilled and in-demand trade in the culinary arts, empower willing minds through passion for hospitality management, and prepare students for a successful transition home.
Students are not only equipped with basic culinary skills, but are also assisted with finding employment, and have the opportunity to utilize free housing, legal services, basic medical care, clothing, job coaching, literacy programs and more.
Today, between its prison program and restaurant and institute at Shaker Square, EDWINS Leadership and Restaurant Institute graduates nearly 100 students a year. After finishing the program or after release from prison, graduates have gained employment in Cleveland’s finest restaurants.