The LEE Initiative is an acronym for Let’s Empower Employment. When we see a need for more diversity, equity, sustainability and compassion in the restaurant industry, we find innovative and impactful solutions. We create programs that make a real difference in the lives of the next generation of restaurant industry professionals. We help our community and inspire others to get involved.
Five years ago, we embarked on a journey when we formed The LEE Initiative to lead with kindness, help workers in need, promote diversity and equity, and believe that the impossible is possible. We are excited to announce the next chapter of The LEE Initiative – a think tank, research and non-profit restaurant based in Washington D.C. We will implement policies and practices that will demonstrate what the future of sustainable restaurants can look like.
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Check out our impact map
We need your help!
Women Culinary & Spirits Program: This program brings qualified women into the restaurant industry and equips them with new skills, powerful mentors in the industry.
Restaurant Workers Relief Program: This program supports pandemic relief and restaurant rebuilding efforts and will directly benefit restaurant employees.
Restaurant Reboot Relief Program: We provide cash infusions to sustainable farmers to allow independent restaurants to purchase goods to heal the food system.
Southern Restaurants for Racial Justice: We partner with the Southern Restaurants for Racial Justice to provide grants to Black-owned restaurants throughout the South.
The LEE Initiative's Culinary Education Program: this program addresses gaps in job training and preparedness for high school students and young people in our community.
The Maker’s Mark CommUNITY Batch – a special release bourbon created by the community, for the community, to support trade and hospitality partners around the country, only available through LEE.