Recognized with JPF grant funding awards in 2022, 2023, and 2024, Arc Broward Culinary in Sunrise, FL is helping expand what opportunity can look like for adults with disabilities. At the heart of that work is a clear mission: to strengthen the community by empowering people with disabilities to grow, develop, and thrive. This mission is particularly meaningful as we recognize National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
Since 2006, Arc Broward’s accredited Entry-Level Culinary Arts Certificate Program has turned culinary training into a pathway to confidence, independence, and meaningful employment. Over 16 weeks, participants learn in small groups and through individualized instruction in a state-of-the-art teaching kitchen, classroom, and social enterprises. Guided by skilled chefs who know how to adapt instruction for diverse learning needs, participants gain practical culinary skills while building the readiness and self-assurance needed to pursue lasting career opportunities.
The support does not end in the kitchen. Through Arc Works, participants strengthen financial literacy, social skills, and workforce preparation. They then receive guidance as they search for community-based employment, connect with employers, complete applications, and transition into new roles with confidence. And, Arc Broward pairs high expectations for participants with high standards for employer partners. They advise on inclusive practices and review workplace environments, on-the-job supports, wages, advancement potential, and more.
With an incredible 100% completion rate and a 100% placement rate, this program demonstrates what is possible when training, individualized support, employer engagement, and inclusive opportunity work together. In alignment with the Center for Working Families model and supported by state accreditation, and as a Model Member of the Catalyst Kitchens network, Arc Broward is not only preparing people for jobs; it is advancing independence, inclusion, and long-term economic mobility for adults with disabilities.