Recently, Vancouver-based JOEY Restaurant Group announced a $160,000 donation to George Brown College’s Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts (CHCA). The hefty donation will go towards program and facility enhancements for the acclaimed Toronto-based culinary school as well as support its expansion at 300 Adelaide Street East. In addition to providing the monetary support over the course of four years, the restaurant group will also come to campus to provide mentorship to students going through the culinary diploma programs.

“Real-world examples of life in the industry are vital for our students,” says Lorraine Trotter, Dean at the Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts. “Career information sessions and restaurant tours provided by JOEY Restaurants enable our students to understand how their education directly relates to their intended careers and the kind of commitment that is necessary. The opportunity to ask questions directly to those working in the field is important for our students’ growth and success. We are very grateful to JOEY Restaurants for their continued engagement and support.”

The first JOEY location in Toronto opened back in 2009 and since then, George Brown College students and alumni have been an integral part of the growth and success of the restaurants, which now include locations in Yorkdale and Eaton Centre, as well as the popular Local Public Eatery in Liberty Village. Currently, there are 100 George Brown College students and alumni that are employed by the JOEY Restaurant Group in the Toronto area.

 JOEY Restaurant Group looks forward to the continued development of George Brown’s culinary arts and hospitality students as well as the hiring opportunities afforded by the partnership and growth of the JOEY Restaurants and LOCAL Public Eatery brands.