Transforming lives
through food

We help people overcoming barriers to employment gain job and life skills while feeding our community. It starts with food but grows from there into career pathways that provide stability and economic mobility.

WHO WE ARE

FareStart is a social enterprise nonprofit focused on job training and employment. We run food-based businesses that serve as classrooms for our students to learn on-the-job skills that will prepare them for careers while nourishing the community and sustainably funding our mission. Our end goal is personal stability and economic mobility for people overcoming barriers to employment.

Learn more

DINING

Food is the foundation of our work. It’s the tool we use to transform lives, disrupt poverty and nourish communities.

Our model has far-reaching impact

We measure the impact of everything we do to ensure we’re delivering on our mission to disrupt poverty and nourish communities through food, life skills and job training.

14,652

individuals served

We have helped nearly 15,000 adults and youth work toward personal stability and economic mobility since 1992.

82%

job placement rate

On average, 82% of adult students have secured jobs within 90 days of graduating from our job training programs.

19M

Meals prepared

Since 1992, we have prepared almost 19 million meals for local nonprofits, shelters, respite centers, youth and adult daycare centers and schools.

272

organizations impacted

We have consulted with nearly 300 organizations in 51 states and provinces across the U.S. and Canada to advance job training programs and realize better employment outcomes.

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  • “I came to the program with my cup empty so I could fill it all up.”

That’s how Anthony approached his time at FareStart after coming out of incarceration—leading with humility, even with years of culinary experience behind him. It didn’t take long for his skills to shine through, both in the kitchen and among his peers.

From stepping into a leadership position during his cohort’s capstone project to working alongside top chefs at Guest Chef Night and landing a lead role in a soon-to-be-open restaurant, Anthony has built strong momentum—and he’s just getting started.

We’re proud to celebrate Anthony and all he’s accomplished so far. 👏

Read more of Anthony’s story by clicking the News link in bio.

#FareStart #JobTraining #WorkforceDevelopment #FreshStart #TransformingLives
  • Our biggest and most inspiring event of the year is back! ✨Join us for the 34th Annual FareStart Gala on Sunday, October 18 — an opportunity to celebrate our students and support FareStart’s mission. Bid on coveted live and online auction items and enjoy a gourmet, multi-course dinner curated by some of our region’s top chefs. This year, we’re excited to gather at a new venue, Fremont Studios. 

Tickets go on sale June 1. Mark your calendars now! 

#FareStart #FareStartGala #TransformingLives #SaveTheDate
  • We’re excited to open a new barista classroom and training space at our flagship downtown location—an important step forward for our Barista & Customer Service Program.

As of late March, students are now learning and practicing in this dedicated, fully in-house space. It creates more opportunities for hands-on training and positions the program to serve more young adults as they build skills in coffee preparation, customer service and workplace readiness.

This space was made possible by our community's support. Thank you for helping create more opportunities for the next generation entering the workforce. Special shoutout to Washington State Department of Commerce for funding support and to Turner Construction (@turnerconstructioncompany), Ware Malcomb and Kris Beason of Beason Construction Solutions for bringing the classroom to life. 

To learn more about where we’re headed next as we kick off our new Strategic Plan, read more from FareStart CEO Patrick D’Amelio on our blog by clicking on the link in bio.

#FareStart #WorkforceDevelopment #JobTraining
  • Early giving for GiveBIG 2026 has begun. Every day at FareStart, students show up ready to rebuild their lives. With consistent access to training, guidance and support, they gain the skills and confidence to move forward.

- $5 provides a student with lunch
- $20 means a student who needs clothes for an interview can go shopping
- $40 ensures a student has access to reliable transportation to get to class

Your support helps build momentum from the very beginning of GiveBIG. Donate today by clicking on the GiveBIG link in bio.

#GiveBIG #FareStart #TransformingLives
  • ⏳ You only have a few days left to enjoy our Seattle Restaurant Week (@seattlerestaurantweek) special!

Don’t miss the Peanut Butter Jelly Smash Burger—stacked with crispy bacon, crunchy peanut butter and a sweet & spicy blackberry habanero jam. It’s a favorite for a reason, and it’s only here for a limited time.

Enjoy it with your choice of side salad or soup and a drink, all for $20.

This satisfying meal is crafted by students in our Food Pathways Program alongside FareStart chefs, offering real-world, hands-on training in our kitchens.

Or order through the FareStart Restaurant link in our bio.

#FareStart #FareStartRestaurant #SeattleRestaurantWeek #SeattleEats #SupportLocal
“I came to the program with my cup empty so I could fill it all up.”

That’s how Anthony approached his time at FareStart after coming out of incarceration—leading with humility, even with years of culinary experience behind him. It didn’t take long for his skills to shine through, both in the kitchen and among his peers.

From stepping into a leadership position during his cohort’s capstone project to working alongside top chefs at Guest Chef Night and landing a lead role in a soon-to-be-open restaurant, Anthony has built strong momentum—and he’s just getting started.

We’re proud to celebrate Anthony and all he’s accomplished so far. 👏

Read more of Anthony’s story by clicking the News link in bio.

#FareStart #JobTraining #WorkforceDevelopment #FreshStart #TransformingLives
“I came to the program with my cup empty so I could fill it all up.”

That’s how Anthony approached his time at FareStart after coming out of incarceration—leading with humility, even with years of culinary experience behind him. It didn’t take long for his skills to shine through, both in the kitchen and among his peers.

From stepping into a leadership position during his cohort’s capstone project to working alongside top chefs at Guest Chef Night and landing a lead role in a soon-to-be-open restaurant, Anthony has built strong momentum—and he’s just getting started.

We’re proud to celebrate Anthony and all he’s accomplished so far. 👏

Read more of Anthony’s story by clicking the News link in bio.

#FareStart #JobTraining #WorkforceDevelopment #FreshStart #TransformingLives
“I came to the program with my cup empty so I could fill it all up.”

That’s how Anthony approached his time at FareStart after coming out of incarceration—leading with humility, even with years of culinary experience behind him. It didn’t take long for his skills to shine through, both in the kitchen and among his peers.

From stepping into a leadership position during his cohort’s capstone project to working alongside top chefs at Guest Chef Night and landing a lead role in a soon-to-be-open restaurant, Anthony has built strong momentum—and he’s just getting started.

We’re proud to celebrate Anthony and all he’s accomplished so far. 👏

Read more of Anthony’s story by clicking the News link in bio.

#FareStart #JobTraining #WorkforceDevelopment #FreshStart #TransformingLives
“I came to the program with my cup empty so I could fill it all up.” That’s how Anthony approached his time at FareStart after coming out of incarceration—leading with humility, even with years of culinary experience behind him. It didn’t take long for his skills to shine through, both in the kitchen and among his peers. From stepping into a leadership position during his cohort’s capstone project to working alongside top chefs at Guest Chef Night and landing a lead role in a soon-to-be-open restaurant, Anthony has built strong momentum—and he’s just getting started. We’re proud to celebrate Anthony and all he’s accomplished so far. 👏 Read more of Anthony’s story by clicking the News link in bio. #FareStart #JobTraining #WorkforceDevelopment #FreshStart #TransformingLives
15 hours ago
View on Instagram |
1/5
Our biggest and most inspiring event of the year is back! ✨Join us for the 34th Annual FareStart Gala on Sunday, October 18 — an opportunity to celebrate our students and support FareStart’s mission. Bid on coveted live and online auction items and enjoy a gourmet, multi-course dinner curated by some of our region’s top chefs. This year, we’re excited to gather at a new venue, Fremont Studios. 

Tickets go on sale June 1. Mark your calendars now! 

#FareStart #FareStartGala #TransformingLives #SaveTheDate
Our biggest and most inspiring event of the year is back! ✨Join us for the 34th Annual FareStart Gala on Sunday, October 18 — an opportunity to celebrate our students and support FareStart’s mission. Bid on coveted live and online auction items and enjoy a gourmet, multi-course dinner curated by some of our region’s top chefs. This year, we’re excited to gather at a new venue, Fremont Studios. 

Tickets go on sale June 1. Mark your calendars now! 

#FareStart #FareStartGala #TransformingLives #SaveTheDate
Our biggest and most inspiring event of the year is back! ✨Join us for the 34th Annual FareStart Gala on Sunday, October 18 — an opportunity to celebrate our students and support FareStart’s mission. Bid on coveted live and online auction items and enjoy a gourmet, multi-course dinner curated by some of our region’s top chefs. This year, we’re excited to gather at a new venue, Fremont Studios. 

Tickets go on sale June 1. Mark your calendars now! 

#FareStart #FareStartGala #TransformingLives #SaveTheDate
Our biggest and most inspiring event of the year is back! ✨Join us for the 34th Annual FareStart Gala on Sunday, October 18 — an opportunity to celebrate our students and support FareStart’s mission. Bid on coveted live and online auction items and enjoy a gourmet, multi-course dinner curated by some of our region’s top chefs. This year, we’re excited to gather at a new venue, Fremont Studios. 

Tickets go on sale June 1. Mark your calendars now! 

#FareStart #FareStartGala #TransformingLives #SaveTheDate
Our biggest and most inspiring event of the year is back! ✨Join us for the 34th Annual FareStart Gala on Sunday, October 18 — an opportunity to celebrate our students and support FareStart’s mission. Bid on coveted live and online auction items and enjoy a gourmet, multi-course dinner curated by some of our region’s top chefs. This year, we’re excited to gather at a new venue, Fremont Studios. Tickets go on sale June 1. Mark your calendars now! #FareStart #FareStartGala #TransformingLives #SaveTheDate
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/5
We’re excited to open a new barista classroom and training space at our flagship downtown location—an important step forward for our Barista & Customer Service Program.

As of late March, students are now learning and practicing in this dedicated, fully in-house space. It creates more opportunities for hands-on training and positions the program to serve more young adults as they build skills in coffee preparation, customer service and workplace readiness.

This space was made possible by our community's support. Thank you for helping create more opportunities for the next generation entering the workforce. Special shoutout to Washington State Department of Commerce for funding support and to Turner Construction (@turnerconstructioncompany), Ware Malcomb and Kris Beason of Beason Construction Solutions for bringing the classroom to life. 

To learn more about where we’re headed next as we kick off our new Strategic Plan, read more from FareStart CEO Patrick D’Amelio on our blog by clicking on the link in bio.

#FareStart #WorkforceDevelopment #JobTraining
We’re excited to open a new barista classroom and training space at our flagship downtown location—an important step forward for our Barista & Customer Service Program.

As of late March, students are now learning and practicing in this dedicated, fully in-house space. It creates more opportunities for hands-on training and positions the program to serve more young adults as they build skills in coffee preparation, customer service and workplace readiness.

This space was made possible by our community's support. Thank you for helping create more opportunities for the next generation entering the workforce. Special shoutout to Washington State Department of Commerce for funding support and to Turner Construction (@turnerconstructioncompany), Ware Malcomb and Kris Beason of Beason Construction Solutions for bringing the classroom to life. 

To learn more about where we’re headed next as we kick off our new Strategic Plan, read more from FareStart CEO Patrick D’Amelio on our blog by clicking on the link in bio.

#FareStart #WorkforceDevelopment #JobTraining
We’re excited to open a new barista classroom and training space at our flagship downtown location—an important step forward for our Barista & Customer Service Program.

As of late March, students are now learning and practicing in this dedicated, fully in-house space. It creates more opportunities for hands-on training and positions the program to serve more young adults as they build skills in coffee preparation, customer service and workplace readiness.

This space was made possible by our community's support. Thank you for helping create more opportunities for the next generation entering the workforce. Special shoutout to Washington State Department of Commerce for funding support and to Turner Construction (@turnerconstructioncompany), Ware Malcomb and Kris Beason of Beason Construction Solutions for bringing the classroom to life. 

To learn more about where we’re headed next as we kick off our new Strategic Plan, read more from FareStart CEO Patrick D’Amelio on our blog by clicking on the link in bio.

#FareStart #WorkforceDevelopment #JobTraining
We’re excited to open a new barista classroom and training space at our flagship downtown location—an important step forward for our Barista & Customer Service Program. As of late March, students are now learning and practicing in this dedicated, fully in-house space. It creates more opportunities for hands-on training and positions the program to serve more young adults as they build skills in coffee preparation, customer service and workplace readiness. This space was made possible by our community's support. Thank you for helping create more opportunities for the next generation entering the workforce. Special shoutout to Washington State Department of Commerce for funding support and to Turner Construction (@turnerconstructioncompany), Ware Malcomb and Kris Beason of Beason Construction Solutions for bringing the classroom to life. To learn more about where we’re headed next as we kick off our new Strategic Plan, read more from FareStart CEO Patrick D’Amelio on our blog by clicking on the link in bio. #FareStart #WorkforceDevelopment #JobTraining
3 days ago
View on Instagram |
3/5
Early giving for GiveBIG 2026 has begun. Every day at FareStart, students show up ready to rebuild their lives. With consistent access to training, guidance and support, they gain the skills and confidence to move forward.

- $5 provides a student with lunch
- $20 means a student who needs clothes for an interview can go shopping
- $40 ensures a student has access to reliable transportation to get to class

Your support helps build momentum from the very beginning of GiveBIG. Donate today by clicking on the GiveBIG link in bio.

#GiveBIG #FareStart #TransformingLives
Early giving for GiveBIG 2026 has begun. Every day at FareStart, students show up ready to rebuild their lives. With consistent access to training, guidance and support, they gain the skills and confidence to move forward. - $5 provides a student with lunch - $20 means a student who needs clothes for an interview can go shopping - $40 ensures a student has access to reliable transportation to get to class Your support helps build momentum from the very beginning of GiveBIG. Donate today by clicking on the GiveBIG link in bio. #GiveBIG #FareStart #TransformingLives
4 days ago
View on Instagram |
4/5
⏳ You only have a few days left to enjoy our Seattle Restaurant Week (@seattlerestaurantweek) special!

Don’t miss the Peanut Butter Jelly Smash Burger—stacked with crispy bacon, crunchy peanut butter and a sweet & spicy blackberry habanero jam. It’s a favorite for a reason, and it’s only here for a limited time.

Enjoy it with your choice of side salad or soup and a drink, all for $20.

This satisfying meal is crafted by students in our Food Pathways Program alongside FareStart chefs, offering real-world, hands-on training in our kitchens.

Or order through the FareStart Restaurant link in our bio.

#FareStart #FareStartRestaurant #SeattleRestaurantWeek #SeattleEats #SupportLocal
⏳ You only have a few days left to enjoy our Seattle Restaurant Week (@seattlerestaurantweek) special!

Don’t miss the Peanut Butter Jelly Smash Burger—stacked with crispy bacon, crunchy peanut butter and a sweet & spicy blackberry habanero jam. It’s a favorite for a reason, and it’s only here for a limited time.

Enjoy it with your choice of side salad or soup and a drink, all for $20.

This satisfying meal is crafted by students in our Food Pathways Program alongside FareStart chefs, offering real-world, hands-on training in our kitchens.

Or order through the FareStart Restaurant link in our bio.

#FareStart #FareStartRestaurant #SeattleRestaurantWeek #SeattleEats #SupportLocal
⏳ You only have a few days left to enjoy our Seattle Restaurant Week (@seattlerestaurantweek) special! Don’t miss the Peanut Butter Jelly Smash Burger—stacked with crispy bacon, crunchy peanut butter and a sweet & spicy blackberry habanero jam. It’s a favorite for a reason, and it’s only here for a limited time. Enjoy it with your choice of side salad or soup and a drink, all for $20. This satisfying meal is crafted by students in our Food Pathways Program alongside FareStart chefs, offering real-world, hands-on training in our kitchens. Or order through the FareStart Restaurant link in our bio. #FareStart #FareStartRestaurant #SeattleRestaurantWeek #SeattleEats #SupportLocal
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
5/5

A Job Changes Everything

With the right support and skills, a job can change everything.

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