In a May survey of more than 8,000 small business owners conducted by the online referral network Alignable, more than 83% of restaurant operators reported an inability to find the workers they need.
— Michael L. Jones (Louisville Business First)

It’s been a while since we checked in with The LEE Initiative, and to no one’s great surprise, the organization is still working to get involved, make a difference, and find solutions.

Our friend and colleague Michael L. Jones examines the latest LEE initiative.

The LEE Initiative looks to help with restaurant staffing shortages with new program, by Michael L. Jones (Louisville Business First)

The LEE Initiative is launching a Culinary Education Program to address the staffing shortages plaguing the restaurant industry.

The program will provide two full-tuition scholarships to Sullivan University’s College of Hospitality Studies for students enrolling in the fall 2022 academic year, which begins on Sept. 26. Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 22 and live in Jefferson County.

The scholarships will be in the name of David McAtee, a beloved chef and community member who was killed by the National Guard in 2020.

For information and the link to apply, go here: Culinary Education Program. Scholarship winners will be revealed in September, 2022.