Slip through a door labeled ‘speakeasy’ in San francisco’s Bayview, and you’ll be transported into a red-carpeted restaurant that looks like it fell out of the 1920’s. What makes this place different is that it’s run for, and by, at risk San Fanciscans ages 16 to 22. The idea spawned from a gang prevention effort in the notorious Mission District. The question the founders asked: “What if we created our own restaurant so we could not only make a little money to keep it going, but no longer be dependent on the state or philanthropy?” Then they could give kids jobs and learning opportunities.

They enroll about 50 students per year in a two year program that teaches them restaurant skills like cooking and serving – and pays them. They then get externships in the hospitality industry. Eddie Blyden is Old Skool’s head chef and director of culinary education. He even encourages them to make their own recipes that are sometimes served as specials.

Old Skool also won a $350,000 grant from Chick-fil-A. The nonprofit just inked a deal to bring on award-winning hospitality group Hi Neighbor, the visionary behind restaurants 7 Adams, Trestle, The Vault Steakhouse and Mama Oakland, as a consultants.

This seems like a much better system than simple handouts as it gives young people a way out as well a real purpose and skills.

Links:

• https://www.sfgate.com/food/article/sf-unique-dining-experience-1920s-supper-club-20168602.php