Delaware Restaurant Foundation

Contact Information

About Delaware Restaurant Foundation

The Delaware Restaurant Foundation (DRF) is the non-profit, philanthropic arm of the Delaware Restaurant Association, dedicated to education, training, and workforce development for restaurant, hospitality, and foodservice workers in our local communities. Founded in 2014, the DRF addresses the ongoing need for sustainable training and education initiatives within Delaware’s restaurant and hospitality industries.

The cornerstone initiative of the DRF is the ProStart Program, a comprehensive, career-building program that blends industry-driven classroom learning with mentored work experience, providing students with the skills and confidence necessary to become successful leaders in their chosen industries and communities.

Pathways Partnership

The Delaware Restaurant Foundation (DRF) collaborates with Delaware Pathways to provide students with structured career pathways in the culinary and hospitality industries. By integrating the ProStart® program—a comprehensive, industry-supported curriculum—into Delaware high schools, we offer students a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on experience, equipping them with the skills and certifications necessary for success in these fields.

Through this partnership, students gain access to work-based learning opportunities, including job shadowing, mock interviews, and mentorships, fostering both technical proficiency and essential employability skills such as leadership and teamwork. This collaboration ensures that students are well-prepared to transition seamlessly from education to meaningful careers in the restaurant and hospitality sectors, addressing the industry’s growing demand for skilled professionals.

Testimonial

Dr. Michael Hill-Shaner

Education Associate, Culturally Competent Workforce Lead

Through our partnership with the Delaware Restuarant Foundation, we are breaking down barriers and expanding access to transformative work-based learning experiences and curriculum that equip students with real-world skills and industry connections. By fostering strong mentorship and hands-on opportunities, we are not just preparing students for careers- we are empowering them to lead, innovate, and thrive in the culinary, hospitality, and tourism industries.

Call to action

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