Last Week's Meeting
Twenty-four years ago, a judge in Detroit gave a then 18-year-old Brandon Edwin Chrostowski a break. Instead of prison, he was given probation, and a chance at a better life. Brandon used this gift to help change the face of prison re-entry in Cleveland.
Brandon Edwin Chrostowski is founder of EDWINS Leadership and Restaurant Institute in Cleveland. Founded in 2007, EDWIN’S instills leadership skills in incarcerated and formerly incarcerated men and women through an education in the culinary arts. His belief that “every human being regardless of their past has the right to a fair and equal future” is what has driven the creation of EDWINS. EDWINS gives those re-entering society a second chance, but more importantly, a mentor to guide and teach them
Brandon’s career began in Detroit, shortly after his “break”. He knocked on doors until a chef gave him a chance, then worked his way to the top, both in the US and Europe, working in the finest restaurants and learning from some of the most experienced chefs. The move to Cleveland by Brandon was intentional. He wanted to go to a city that had some of the worst schools, knowing he could possibly make a difference.
EDWINS Leadership and Restaurant Institute currently has 30 participants, with 60 more starting in a week. The program runs 6 months, teaching perfect practice and techniques. In addition to learning the culinary arts, EDWINS has a large support system that includes case management, free housing for students, a library with 4,000 cookbooks, a park, basketball court, bakery and butcher shop. All facilities are located within walking distance of each other to eliminate the need for transportation. Program graduates run 65% - 70% of the facilities are graduate run and operated.
An incubator that can be used by the community is also part of the campus. In 2011, cooking classes began at Grafton Correctional Institute, and in prisons where it is allowed, virtual classes.
EDWINS Leadership and Restaurant Institute is a national model for re-entry and endorses five simple pillars:
Meet people where they are at
Teach to the top – perfect practice and the right way
Give students the full perspective by working every position to find out what they like
Care –money was raised for a family center and free day care
Get out of the way!
Meet people where they are at
Teach to the top – perfect practice and the right way
Give students the full perspective by working every position to find out what they like
Care –money was raised for a family center and free day care
Get out of the way!
Edwin’s Restaurant in Shaker Square is an award winning French restaurant. For more information, or to make reservations, visit www.edwinsrestaurant.org.
