First Cohort Starting September 2, 2025

First Cohort Starting September 2, 2025

Program of Germain’s Culinary Inc.

Nourish & Flourish Kitchen

Nourish & Flourish Kitchen empowers people experiencing IDD to achieve self-reliance through careers in the food industry. Designed to build confidence and independence, the curriculum-based program will ensure student success through hands-on training alongside professional chefs.

Cohorts are:

  • 16 weeks

  • Limited to 6 students

Graduates of Nourish & Flourish Kitchen will be prepared for community-based positions, including prep cook, line cook, dietary aide, kitchen assistant, and baking assistant. Curriculum includes safety & sanitation, knife skills & knowledge of basic cooking techniques. Students learn soft skills that support success in the workplace, including teamwork & effective communication. Job readiness training includes resume preparation & practice interviews. Community engagement includes serving meals to those experiencing food insecurity, & visits to food manufacturers & other potential employers.

  • Classes meet Tuesday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

    First cohort will start on September 2, 2025

  • Located in downtown Portland, close to TriMet bus, Max, and Streetcar services

    • Participants must have IDD case management services and have Employment Path services included in their ISP. Contact your service coordinator or personal agent about your ISP

    • Participants must complete an application. For application information, please contact: info@cedarindependence.com

    • Other Requirements:

      1. Read and write at a sixth-grade level

      2. Understand and perform basic math functions using a calculator

      3. Be able to stand for two hours at a time

      4. Have motor skills for safe use of a knife and other kitchen implements

      5. Respond to verbal instructions text goes here

For application information, please contact: info@cedarindependence.com