Letter from the Executive Director
I want to begin with a moment from our restaurant kitchen. Not long ago, one of our trainees, standing nervously at the “fry station” during their first shadow shift, plated the appetizers they were working on and placed them in the window.
“Table 42 in the window,” they said.
“Looks good,” the chef replied from the expo station.
Hearing “job well done” brought a smile to their face. You could see it in their eyes and in the pride of their posture—it wasn’t just about cooking. It was about confidence, skill, and knowing they belonged at this table, in this world. Moments like this remind me why we do what we do.
At Forge City Works, the table is at the center of everything.
It’s where young people gain skills, experience, and self-belief to build careers through our culinary job training program. It’s where families in our community access healthy, wholesome food through The Grocery on Broad—stretching their dollars while nourishing their lives. And it’s where donors, neighbors, and friends like you make it all possible.
Tonight, we celebrate more than food. We celebrate stories of growth, resilience, and opportunity. We celebrate the impact of your support on trainees, families, and the broader Hartford community. Together, we are combating intergenerational poverty, honoring dignity, and creating spaces where everyone belongs—one meal, one trainee, one family at a time.
On behalf of the entire Forge City Works team, thank you for being part of this story. Thank you for believing in the power of food, work, and community. As you enjoy the conversation, the meals, and the company around this table tonight, remember: every dish, every shared story, every connection reflects the change you make possible.
With gratitude,
