MILFORD, Del. – A significant event is set to take place on Tuesday as the Food Bank of Delaware prepares to host a graduation ceremony. This ceremony holds great importance as it honors students who have completed the organization's culinary and warehousing/logistics training programs. The event will commence at 11 a.m. at their facility on Delaware Veterans Boulevard in Milford.

Empowering Lives through Culinary and Logistics Training

Keynote Speaker: Gary Shirey's Inspiring Journey

The ceremony will feature keynote remarks by Gary Shirey, the owner of Bub’s Grubs food truck. Gary's story is one of remarkable transformation. He overcame addiction and incarceration, demonstrating an unwavering determination to take accountability and regain control of his life. Now, he uses his experience to inspire and motivate others in the community, showing that with hard work and perseverance, one can achieve great things. His presence at the graduation ceremony adds a touch of inspiration and hope to the event.

Gary's success is a testament to the power of second chances and the importance of providing support and opportunities to those in need. His journey serves as a reminder that everyone has the potential to turn their lives around and make a positive impact on the world.

Welcome and Remarks

Anna McDermott, the Chief Impact Officer of the Food Bank of Delaware, will offer a warm welcome to all attendees. Her words will set the tone for the event and emphasize the significance of the graduates' achievements. Following her, President and CEO Cathy Kanefsky will share her thoughts and insights, highlighting the role of the Food Bank in providing these training programs and the impact they have on the community.

The Food Bank's commitment to helping individuals gain skills for careers in the culinary and logistics industries is evident in these training programs. They offer hands-on education and certifications that equip participants with the necessary tools to succeed in these fields.

Graduate Recognition and Lunch

The graduates will be rightfully recognized for their hard work and achievements during the ceremony. Their dedication and perseverance have led them to this moment of celebration. After the recognition, a delicious lunch will be prepared by the graduates themselves, showcasing the skills they have acquired through the training programs.

This lunch is not only a celebration of their achievements but also a demonstration of their newfound culinary abilities. It is a testament to the quality of the training provided by the Food Bank and the potential of these graduates in the food and hospitality industries.

Training Programs for Adults with Disabilities

In August, the Food Bank had nine graduates of a cooking program specifically designed for adults with disabilities. This initiative, in partnership with the Delaware Restaurant Association, has been a great success. It equips students with the skills needed for employment in the food and hospitality industries, providing them with a valuable opportunity for a brighter future.

The program focuses on not only teaching cooking skills but also on building confidence and independence. The graduates have shown remarkable growth and development during the course, and their success is a source of inspiration for others.

The Food Bank of Delaware's graduation ceremony is a moment of pride and celebration. It showcases the hard work and determination of the graduates and the impact of the organization's training programs. Through these programs, the Food Bank is helping to build a more skilled and resilient community.