Keshet’s Bright Apron Academy is a hands-on culinary and workplace training program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities or learning differences. Students graduate from Bright Apron with the skills, confidence and professional training to pursue entry-level roles in food service and hospitality settings.
At Bright Apron Academy, we transform a passion for food into professional growth. Designed for adults disabilities or learning differences, the program builds skills in kitchen operations, customer service and workforce readiness. Students train in a real kitchen environment, with classroom sessions woven in to support understanding and skill development.
The program uses a curriculum developed in partnership with the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation, ensuring training that is aligned with industry standards and recognized by employers. Originally created by Hugs Café Training Academy in Texas, the model is designed to be responsive to individual learning needs.
Bright Apron is part of Keshet’s adult services, which support hundreds of adults each year through vocational training and community-based programs. Rooted in our mission to create a community of belonging, these programs foster independence, build skills and prepare participants for meaningful roles at work and in the community.
This course teaches practical skills for food service and hospitality jobs that are also useful for independent living. Adults will gain hands-on experience in food preparation and cooking basics, kitchen safety and sanitation, customer service, workplace responsibility, teamwork and more.
Students learn alongside experienced instructors, including special educators, job coaches and guest chefs. With a dedicated team to support this robust curriculum, students will feel confident to pursue entry-level roles in cafes, restaurants, catering and community kitchens.
Graduates of Bright Apron Academy earn three professional certifications: Bright Apron Academy Diploma, ServSafe® Food Handler Certification and Certificate in Fire Extinguisher Safety..
Bright Apron Academy is designed for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities or learning differences who are on a path to meaningful employment. They are motivated to build skills, confidence and professionalism through hands-on training in a group setting.
Students who succeed in this program typically:
Students are at least 18 years old. Many enroll after high school, transition programs or other adult services as they prepare for independent living and employment.
Length: 12 weeks
Schedule: Classes meet twice each week, 10:00am to 2:00pm
Location: Northbrook
Cost: $2250
Financial assistance available
Wendy Lacey, Keshet’s Culinary Coordinator, has nearly a decade of supporting Keshet’s adult participants in vocational, workplace and community settings. Her warmth and dedication make her a trusted leader to build confidence and skills in the kitchen.
Bright Apron Academy is currently enrolling new students. Students, families and professionals are encouraged to reach out with any questions.
Contact WendyAfter years of running a successful café in Texas, Hugs Inc. partnered with the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation to create a hospitality training curriculum for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Keshet is an Affiliate Partner with Hugs Inc.
