Serving Brighter Futures

California Restaurant Association Foundation

Our Story

Empowering 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 leverages the power of California’s restaurant industry to change lives. 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

Learn by Doing – ProStart Students Tour Top Hospitality Venues in Anaheim

This week, aspiring young chefs, restaurateurs and hospitality leaders from across Southern California experienced some of the best-known restaurant and hospitality companies together – and helped put students on the path to achieving their dreams.

High School Culinary Arts Teachers Keep Skills Sharp with Help of The Art Institutes

(Sacramento, CA) – Vegetarian-centric dishes, Filipino flavors, chef-driven fast casual concepts top the list of the hottest menu trends of 2018 according to the National Restaurant Association. High school culinary arts teachers across California are attending...

Winners of the 2018 CA ProStart Cup

The state's top student chefs, entrepreneurs and innovators went head-to-head in the 16th annual CA ProStart Cup presented by BJ's Restaurants on March 18+19 at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, CA. The competition was fierce as students...