At Spokane’s Fresh Soul restaurant, Executive Director Michael Brown is always busy mentoring local youth, whether helping a teen with the register or coaching someone in the kitchen.
Operated by the Spokane Eastside Reunion Association (SERA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the East Central Spokane restaurant doubles as a youth job training program. Teens aged 14 to 18 rotate through roles like servers, cooks, and cashiers, while completing a 12-week curriculum focused on financial literacy, resume writing, interview prep, and personal development.
The goal isn’t just employment, it’s empowerment.
For many participants, Fresh Soul becomes a turning point. One graduate called it “the best place I’ve been in life so far,” while another said it helped “hold myself accountable.”
Many of the young participants come from communities that have historically faced systemic barriers. With support from an Avista Foundation grant, SERA can compensate students for their contributions, recognizing the value of their time, effort, and personal growth.
“Our work is effective because we are led by our community, in relationship with our community,” Michael says.
Fresh Soul isn’t just preparing young people for jobs; it’s preparing them for life. And in doing so, Michael hopes to prove that with the right ingredients—community, opportunity, and faith—the future is brighter.