Changing Lives Through Restaurants
Serving California’s Restaurant Workforce
We’re cooking up stronger communities in California by investing in the people at the heart of our restaurant industry.
A nonprofit organization founded in 1981, CRAF changes lives through restaurants. We empower young people with the skills they need to land a job and go to college. We provide restaurant employees with financial assistance and peace of mind during unforeseen crisis.
Why Restaurants
Opportunity is on the Menu
Restaurants create economic opportunity and stronger communities
Get involved
Make a Difference
Inspire Future Leaders
From guest speaking in a high school classroom to mentoring, there are so many ways to make an impact. Volunteers from all aspects of the hospitality industry are welcome.
Give Hope
Help restaurant workers facing a hardship. From hosting a fundraiser to volunteering at an event, we need you.
News And Events
Donate Today
Where Are They Now? ProStart student spotlight
For 38 years, CRAF has made college access a priority for our restaurant community. Through scholarships, college fairs, tours, and peer mentors, we are inspiring thousands of students each year to dream bigger. Meet three incredible ProStart alumni who pursued their...
3,500 Teens Trained by Restaurant Pros on One Day
Restaurant volunteers took over high school classrooms across California on October 22. Restaurants teamed up with the California Restaurant Association Foundation to help Gen Z students prepare for their first jobs – everything from resume-writing to practical...
Annual Partners
