Hospitality Kick-Start program graduates four
June 25, 2018
Graduates of the most recent course include Ivan D’Arrigo, Amani Clark, Tierra Williams and Alexia Sarmiento.
Palmetto Goodwill held its second Hospitality Kick-Start graduation ceremony on Thursday, June 21 in which 4 locals were awarded basic START certifications. The first iteration of the course was held in May and included 6 graduates.
With support from the Charleston Area Hospitality Association and the Greater Charleston Restaurant Association, this two-week program gives students the competitive edge they need to find employment in the hospitality industry. In addition to receiving START certification, participants receive hands-on hospitality training at a partner location and go through Palmetto Goodwill’s soft skills course.
“These men and women are eager to become employed in the hospitality industry,” said Chris Harvey, Corporate Operations Manager of Charlestowne Hotels, whose company provided the hands-on training for students. “Participants receive two intensive weeks of training that help make them more employable — learning about everything from front desk and guest services, to maintenance, to restaurant operations, to guestroom attendant responsibilities. This course really gives them a head-start in their hospitality career.”
Palmetto Goodwill VP of Mission Enterprises Jermaine Husser added, “The fast-track curriculum and hands-on experience is designed to give those interested in the hospitality sector the entry-level skills necessary for immediate job placement. I’m happy to say every person who has gone through these two training sessions has been offered a job with one of our hospitality partners.”
Additional Hospitality Kick-Start courses in 2018 are scheduled to begin July 9, August 6, September 17 and October 15. For more information or to register contact Palmetto Goodwill at 843-566-0072 or visit palmettogoodwill.org/training.
