Students Cook Up a New Set of Job Skills

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Graduates are making last-minute preparations for their big day at the Culinary Cornerstones Cooking School. But rather than spending hours getting ready, they are spending that time whipping up their favorite recipes for their families, friends and potential clients to try.

The students have spent the last 12 weeks preparing, catering and cooking. The program is sponsored by Episcopal Community Services and the United Way. The class trains people for jobs in the food service and catering industry.

Many students are out of work, recovering from substance abuse or have criminal records. They spend 12 weeks of intensive training in cooking for the homeless and catering on nights and weekends.

Antoinette Harper was out of work for weeks before taking the class. Now she wants to start her own catering business.

"I believe this will open up doors for especially with the experience I'm getting right now," Harper said.

They cook and cater for hundreds of people every day.

Curt Dugger who used to be a system analyst says that's his favorite part.

"It's primarily homeless people. It's very good for my Karma. I like that. I like that. It makes me feel good,” Dugger said.

Harper is featuring her grandmother's butter rolls.

"I think about her I do and I think she is smiling down on me," says Harper.

The food is served to guests at graduation.