Root, NS Inc.

Root is a Salem nonprofit that helps young adults build a path to independence through foodservice training and employment. Trainees learn kitchen skills along with life and work readiness skills in its culinary job training program, then can continue in an alumni employment program. The organization also runs Catering by Root and the HarborPoint event space, which support the mission by creating youth training and employment opportunities, so hiring them for a meeting supports the program.

Each week, Root’s youth employees produce more than 700 meals for seniors, families and children facing food insecurity, delivered through North Shore agencies such as Lifebridge, Salem Pantry and Beverly Bootstraps. Several program graduates now staff the kitchen as cooks and assistant kitchen manager, serving as role models for current trainees. Executive director Nate Berkowitz brings more than 20 years in hospitality and envisions Root as the region’s hub for hospitality workforce training.

What to Know

• Young adults can apply to the culinary job training program online.
• Catering by Root serves meetings and events on and off site.
• The HarborPoint event space can be booked for functions.
• Administrative director Derek Almeida has 20 years of experience in Boston-area restaurants.