The startup operates a restaurant training platform that equips youth in pre-release programs with essential life skills and culinary expertise through hands-on internships. Participants gain practical experience by working alongside established chefs, learning all aspects of restaurant operations from customer service to kitchen duties.
Funding
$4.9M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
Justice-involved youth often lack access to the resources and training needed to successfully reintegrate into society and secure stable employment. Traditional juvenile justice models may not adequately address the underlying issues contributing to recidivism, such as lack of education, life skills, and positive support systems.
Solution
Café Momentum provides a comprehensive, 12-month paid internship program for youth aged 15-19 who have been involved in the juvenile justice system, offering a holistic approach to rehabilitation and empowerment. Interns rotate through all aspects of restaurant operations, gaining hands-on experience in culinary arts, customer service, and restaurant management. The program integrates professional development, social skills training, academic support, and case management services to address individual needs and promote long-term success. By combining culinary training with a supportive ecosystem, Café Momentum equips youth with the skills and confidence to pursue meaningful employment and build brighter futures.
Target Audience
The primary beneficiaries are youth aged 15-19 who have been involved in the juvenile justice system and are seeking opportunities for rehabilitation, education, and employment.
Features
- Paid 12-month internship program for justice-involved youth aged 15-19
- Hands-on training in all aspects of restaurant operations, including culinary arts, customer service, and management
- Professional development curriculum focused on life skills, social skills, and financial literacy
- Academic support, including high school enrollment assistance, tutoring, and post-secondary preparation
- Case management services, including mental health support, housing assistance, and referrals to community resources
- Community Services Center providing a safe space for interns to access resources and support
- Opportunities for graduates to secure employment with community partners
- Focus on reducing recidivism and promoting long-term success through a holistic approach