Someday I hope to be doing this. Work in an organization
that is about social change. There are enough charities and non-profits out
there and yet poverty and suffering still exists. I always believed in giving
back to the community but also knew that I could not work for a charity based
organization. I believe in empowerment and education and organizations that
help individuals be self-sufficient.
Recently, I went to one such place. Old Skool Café. A supper club that is
led by at risk youth. Teresa, the woman who founded this restaurant wanted a
place where young people could learn life skills that can help them escape the
vicious circle of crime, unemployment and gangs. Old Skool café is a training program
that teaches these young adults everything there is to know about the
restaurant business from cooking, to serving and fine dining etiquette. When
these youngsters “graduate” they are ready for jobs in the food and restaurant
business.
The best part of the experience was that, the food was
delicious! After all, no matter what the cause, if the product is not good, the
user will never return. This is where I feel a lot of organizations go wrong
in. If you have a business model where part of or all your profits go towards a
socio-economic cause then you have to make sure that the product or service you
are delivering is the best. I will probably return to Old Skool Café and will
always tip generously but I will do that because my dining experience was
fantastic. The work that they do to support the youth is the crux of the
restaurant but, it is secondary for most diners. The diner will most likely
view this as icing on the cake. Speaking of dessert, don’t forget to try the
lavender cheesecake. The perfect way to end the meal.
I'd love to try this restaurant and the experience of being part of such a worthy cause is invaluable.
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