Members of the Mission Committee enjoyed a mid-summer's evening dinner downtown at the new Café Momentum. The restaurant opened earlier this year built upon a model developed in Dallas to engage area justice-involved youth with the opportunity to develop life skills, education, and employment opportunities.
The restaurant is equal parts dining room and classroom. Young people engage in a comprehensive 12-month curriculum at the affiliated Community Services Center located just next door. Youth work with case managers to address individual needs, including education, mental health, life and social skills, financial education and career exploration.
Located at 268 Forbes Avenue, the commute was easy, and there was lots of parking nearby. Oh . . . did we mention, the food was terrific and we learned a lot from the executive director, as well as the chef, who told us more about the mission of the organization and how the food was sourced and prepared. The Cafe has a commitment to source their food locally.
If you are looking for an enjoyable dinner, with the opportunity to also support area youth, consider a jaunt downtown to Cafe Momentum. You won't be disappointed.