The Mission
Recipe for Change was founded by Chef Bruno Abate in 2014. The program began as an opportunity for male detainees of Cook County Jail in Chicago to receive an introduction to healthy food, good nutrition, and the art of quality cooking through live cooking demonstrations in a small onsite kitchen. It has since expanded to support both men and women, and now includes a structured curriculum where students earn culinary certificates, a rigorous pizza internship opportunity, a music production program, and an art studio.
Research shows that post-incarceration employment is a significant factor to reducing recidivism rates. Their culinary programs focus on equipping students with tools and skills that will both increase the number of employment opportunities available to their students and the likelihood of employment upon reentry.
