EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute

Located in Cleveland, Ohio and founded by Brandon Chrostowski in 2007, the driving principle behind the organization is that every human being, regardless of their past, has a right to a fair and equal future. In 2011, Culinary Club classes began at Grafton Correctional Institution and shortly after, EDWINS Restaurant opened in Shaker Square on Nov. 1, 2013. While enrolled in the program, EDWINS students are equipped with intensive training and hands-on work experience. They are also provided with free housing, legal services, basic medical care, clothing, job coaching, literacy programs and more at the Second Chance Life Skills Center (est. 2016), a 30,000 square foot campus. Today, EDWINS has grown to include an award-winning fine French restaurant, Butcher Shop, Bakery and edwins too; a culinary incubator, community kitchen, event and makers’ space. The Institute graduates 100 students a year and have gained employment in dining establishments across the country.