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.
Women Culinary and Spirits Program 2023 Application
Join Chef Edward Lee and Lindsey Ofcacek as they once again embark on a roadtrip to check in with some of the mentees from our Women Culinary and Spirits Program. Celebrate promotions, skill building and incredible professional growth as you learn first hand the impact the program has on these incredible women. This program wouldn’t be possible without the generous support and partnership from our friends at Audi, which has allowed us to continue our nationwide expansion of this incredible program in 2022.
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: Through the pandemic, we funded restaurants to open relief kitchens for out of work restaurant staff. We have now used this model to operate emergency relief kitchens.
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, available through Maker's Mark Whisky Drop and our annual Giving Tuesday event.
Southern Restaurants for Racial Justice: We partner with the Southern Restaurants for Racial Justice and Heinz to provide grants to Black-owned restaurants.
The LEE Initiative is committed to transparency. Click on our 2023 Candid Gold Seal to learn why you can support our work with confidence.