Atlanta program transforms lives with culinary skills, fresh starts

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ATLANTA — In Atlanta, where opportunity meets need, one program is helping residents rebuild their lives through culinary careers. 

The Westside Works Culinary Academy, hosted at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, offers a life-changing six-week course that teaches participants essential kitchen skills and provides a pathway to sustainable careers.

For Latavius Moore, the program was more than a class — it was a second chance.

From incarceration to culinary success

“Good morning, future chefs,” Moore said, greeting his class with enthusiasm. 

After serving 22 years in prison, the English Avenue native knew he wanted more than a backbreaking job. 

“I didn’t want to work warehouse jobs,” he said. “I wanted a career.”

Moore found that opportunity through Westside Works, a neighborhood-based workforce program. It aims to transform the Westside community and greater metro Atlanta by providing better access to job training, education and quality career opportunities.

With encouragement from his wife, who also enrolled in the program, Moore began his journey in the culinary world. The program taught him not just kitchen skills but confidence and a new mindset. 

“This helped me clean up and be a better person,” Moore shared.

Three years after graduating, Moore now supervises concessions at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, preparing food for Atlanta Falcons fans just down the street from his childhood home. He also serves as a mentor, guiding current students and showing them what’s possible with hard work and determination.

How Westside Works builds careers in Atlanta

The Westside Works Culinary Academy, funded by the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation in partnership with Levy Restaurants, offers hands-on training in food safety, international cuisine, baking and more. Graduates leave with certifications like Serve Safe and job placements at venues across Atlanta. Beyond culinary training, the program provides mental health support and a family-like atmosphere.

“Westside Works is a family to me,” Moore said. “I remember where I came from, and I’m trying to help people get where I am and even farther.”

For Moore, it’s a full-circle moment. 

“I stand here today because of the inspiration given to me, and I have no choice but to give to others.”

Programs like Westside Works are transforming lives in Atlanta, providing pathways to careers that uplift families and communities. 

“It’s possible,” Moore said. 

To learn more about Westside Works and its Culinary Academy, visit here.