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Our Charity

Proceeds from each dinner benefit the Iowa Restaurant Association Education Foundation and Iowa ProStart Program.

Iowa ProStart Program

ProStart® is a nationwide, career-building program for high school students created by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) and implemented in Iowa by the Iowa Restaurant Association Education Foundation (IRAEF). The ProStart program blends classroom learning with industry experiences, giving students a platform to discover new interests and talents to open doors for fulfilling careers in the hospitality industry. From culinary techniques to management skills, ProStart’s industry-driven curriculum provides real-life experience opportunities and builds practical, transferable skills and a long-lasting foundation for the future.

Iowa Restaurant Association Education Foundation (IRAEF)

The Iowa Restaurant Association Education Foundation works to advance professionalism and career opportunities in the hospitality industry through education, scholarships, and community involvement. The IRAEF serves as the charitable arm of the Iowa Restaurant Association. Along with the ProStart career and technical education high school program, the IRAEF also focuses on strengthening today’s workforce by providing educational opportunities for professional development and employee retention for those already working in the industry.