YMCA Basic Culinary Skills Training Program
This unique, 16-week training program, led by professional instructors, will help you develop essential kitchen and employment skills to find and maintain work in the hospitality industry. The YMCA has been delivering this high-quality program since 1984.
Note: Participants must be Ontario Works recipients and live in the City of Toronto.
To learn more please email YMCAHospitality@ymcagta.org
The YMCA Basic Culinary Skills Training Program has an outstanding success rate: nearly 80% of graduates find work in the hospitality field. From the start, participants learn theory and prepare food under the supervision of our highly experienced Chef Director and Chef Instructors.
16-Week Program Certificate
YMCA participants earn a certificate after completing 16 weeks of culinary training including:
- Food theory labs, culinary skills demonstrations, and life skills/job search workshops
- Basic First Aid and CPR/AED Certification
- Toronto Food Handler Certification
Post-Graduate Support
We want more young people to have aspiration, opportunity, and support to complete their education, get volunteer/work experience, and transition to meaningful and stable career paths. Ultimately, the project aims to help Black youth achieve the support, life skills, and improved employment outcomes that will positively affect their lifelong health and well-being.
Successful YMCA of Greater Toronto participants receive 24 weeks of post-graduate support for their personal growth as they transition to meaningful and stable career paths. They use the soft skills learned throughout their program training to effectively communicate, team-build, create a resume, improve their interview skills, and help with their job search.
Hands-On Training
Participants receive practical on-the-job training and experience preparing high-quality meals, giving them a head start to getting a job in the hospitality field.
