What's Happening?
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is expanding its workforce training program to include a new customer service track. The initiative, called Career Pathways, builds on the organization's existing Culinary Training Program. The expansion aims
to address barriers faced by local job seekers, as identified in community research conducted in 2025. The program will offer skills training, career readiness support, and direct connections with local employers. Participants will receive training in workplace skills such as time management, teamwork, and communication.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of Second Harvest's workforce training program reflects the organization's commitment to addressing unemployment and underemployment in Central Florida. By providing training in in-demand fields like customer service, the program aims to bridge the gap between job seekers and available opportunities. This initiative is particularly significant in the context of a shifting job market, where skills and experience are crucial for securing employment. The program's focus on career readiness and direct employer connections enhances participants' chances of finding meaningful work.
What's Next?
Applications for the Career Pathways program are now open, with the first customer service cohort beginning on July 7. The culinary track will continue with a new cohort starting on August 3. Second Harvest will likely continue to assess and adapt its training programs to meet the evolving needs of the local job market. The success of the program could serve as a model for other organizations seeking to address workforce development challenges.
