Service Workers Training & Education Partnership

Committed to supporting the growth of sustainable work in the hospitality and food industry by providing free job entry training, upskilling to workers, and educational benefits to union workers and their families.

For

For UNITE HERE Local 23 Members

Providing free upskilling, food safety certification, and language classes, the STEP Fund invests in the futures of UNITE HERE Local 23 members and their families, helping them achieve career and life goals.

UNITE HERE Local 23 Members

For

Job Seekers

Through its culinary, food service worker/barista, and catering attendant training and placement programs, STEP builds pathways into unionized jobs in the DC area, where graduates can earn above average salaries and benefits.

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For

Organizations & Employers

To support its goals of providing clients and customers with excellent service, and supporting our diverse communities, STEP accepts referrals into its job seeker programs from community partners, and, can tailor programs for our partner employers upon request.

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For

Educational Support

To support Local 23 Union Members and their families, STEP facilitates access to tuition and scholarship resources.

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Upcoming Classes

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Apr 26

Culinary Upskilling

Baking Breads 2: Brioche Tressée, Cinnamon Rolls

For Local 23 Members

10:00am - 2:00pm

In Person

Class Details & Application

May 1

Jul 2

Job Training and Placement

Culinary Foundations for English Language Learners (ESL: Low intermediate & higher)

Culinary Job Training and Employment Placement Support For People Learning English as an Additional Language

For Job Seekers

9:00am - 4:00pm

In Person

Class Details & Application

May 3

May 10

Food & Alcohol Safety

ServSafe Manager (2 day class)

You don't have to be a manager! But you do have to come BOTH days.

For Local 23 Members

10:00am - 4:00pm

In Person

Class Details & Application

May 24

Culinary Upskilling

Braising and Stewing Meats: Lamb Shank in Wine Sauce, Chicken Cacciatore

Skills: Theory of slow cooking (understanding methods for tenderizing meats, flavor development, cost savings)

For Local 23 Members

10:00am - 2:00pm

In Person

Class Details & Application

Student Experiences

"Leadership class was amazing. I learned so much, and the instructor was dynamic. We all taught each other and we also learned how to stand out. It has helped me at work in my job, and in running the small business that I own."

Joy Davis Participant in Leadership Class
"The program helped me to build self-confidence, I improved my English, I got a job that keeps me interested. The program's staff have been super-professional and careful. That was a first step towards my final goals."

Elena Makarevich Participant in Culinary Foundations for English Language Learners
"STEP training changed my life. They were all so supportive. They helped me find a great job where I learned so much, and now a Chef at my company asked me to work on his team. I am going to be earning more, and I love my work. Everyone who is interested in cooking and learning should try this program. "

Risala Mohamed

About STEP Fund

We invest in the skills of food service and hospitality workers. We are a trusted training and education partner for UNITE HERE Local 23 members and employers.

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