Meet Your Neighbor: James Ricks

As I was exploring my options during COVID, one of my past supervisors contacted me about the Queens Connect Culinary Arts program at QCH. I was excited about the idea to expand my knowledge of cooking and the food industry. I never really cooked before, but now I cook meals every day and enjoy doing it. The chef and staff create a great learning environment, and now I'm more inspired to cook all sorts of things after watching the chef in action. An added bonus of being a participant in this program is that I got paid during the experience, and I'm thankful for that.

I wanted to keep expanding my education and work experience during COVID. QCH also connected me to a training program in digital marketing with Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow. My time there was fun and informative. I was able to see how things operate digitally and learn the mechanics. I also had the opportunity to work with other colleagues that were there, which I enjoyed.

I’m happy that I came across QCH because I was lost and didn’t know what to do. I would recommend the programs to anybody unsure about 'what's next'. The staff was nice, and they are always looking for ways to help out.

- James Ricks, Alumnus from the YABC at Arts & Business

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