PRLA Educational
Foundation
Contributions to the PRLAEF support the following programs:
- Scholarships for students pursuing post-secondary education
- Prostart High School/CTE Support in culinary/hospitality tracking
- Pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship
- Restaurant Ready partnerships with community-based organizations that provide culinary training
- Hospitality Assistance Response in PA (HARP) employee relief fund
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PRLAEF
The PRLAEF is dedicated to investing in the growth and support of the Pennsylvania hospitality industry and its employees. The PRLAEF promotes and awards student scholarships and supports educational programming to assist with career development.
In addition, our Hospitality Assistance Response in Pennsylvania (HARP) relief fund provides emergency assistance to the hospitality community during times of need.
ProStart
Feeding Dreams. Building Futures. Developing today’s high school students into tomorrow’s restaurant and and hospitality leaders.
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Workforce Development
Explore the partnerships and programs fostered by the PRLA Educational Foundation to help employees gain skills to advance their careers, including apprenticeships and Restaurant Ready.
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ServSafe Training
ServSafe is the industry’s leading food safety certificate training. It’s also serving up new products to help employers attract and retain talent, such as ServSuccess, Workplace, and more.
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Scholarship Program
The PRLAEF annually awards scholarships to students pursuing their post-secondary education in culinary arts and hospitality management.
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Pour with Purpose
The PRLAEF has teamed up with 7Cellars and OneHope wineries for a unique fundraiser to support our career development, educational, and industry initiatives.
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Donate & Support PRLAEF
Financial contributions support our industry’s current and future workforce.
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PRLAEF Governance
The PRLAEF is governed by a board of directors composed of 11 leaders from all aspects of the industry. In addition, the PRLAEF has three committees that develop programs and support the Foundation.
Education Committee
This committee directs the use of external programs, such as those through our national partners, to train new and prospective hospitality employees, as well as assist in the professional educational goals of the industry. It will partner with local school districts and post-secondary institutions to advance hospitality careers.
Fundraising & Scholarship Committee
This committee leads the fundraising efforts for the Foundation, as well as facilitates the creation and management of the Foundation’s menu of scholarship and grant programs.
Workforce Development Committee
This committee oversees PRLAEF workforce initiatives. It is tasked with reviewing and prioritizing existing workforce development programs, assisting in the development of partnerships with local and regional community-based organizations, creating awareness campaigns to promote careers in hospitality, and providing expertise to staff.
The Future of the Industry
ProStart
ProStart® is a nationwide, two-year high school program that unites the classroom and industry to develop the best and brightest talent into tomorrow’s restaurant and foodservice leaders.
From culinary techniques to management skills, ProStart’s industry-driven curriculum provides real-life experience opportunities and builds practical skills and a foundation that will last a lifetime.
Hospitality Tourism Management (HTM)
Hospitality Tourism Management introduces high school students to the world of hospitality, and the main segments of the industry: lodging, food & beverage operations, tourism, attractions and travel, and event management.
Developed by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute with input from the industry, this program aligns with national curriculum standards and highlights the knowledge and skills today’s hospitality leaders are looking for in their employees.
Hospitality Boot Camps
These one-day workshops introduce students in grades 7 through 12 to the hospitality industry and the potential career pathways it offers. Students participate in hands-on cooking and pastry demonstrations led by local chefs, learn about proper dining etiquette and event planning, and engage in interactive discussions with industry leaders. Workshops are held around the state and open to all school districts. Check out pictures from the 2023 Central PA Boot Camp.
AHLEI
The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute is globally recognized for providing hospitality learning solutions. It offers a broad array of resources for your professional development needs.
Membership Has Benefits
Resources for Hospitality Businesses, Vendors, Sponsors, Students. Membership is for Everyone!
