Positive Vibe Café was founded in 2002 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization by the Positive Vibe Foundation (formerly the Get Lost MD Foundation). Unchanged today, the Foundation and Café provide hands-on training and meaningful employment in food services to individuals with physical and developmental disabilities. The Café stands on patrons and volunteers alone. Over half of the Café’s employees are unpaid and, with our patrons, assist an organization that believes in the bright futures of all persons.

Since 2004, Positive Vibe Café has trained over 400 students, all with scholarships. The training program aims to prepare students for the work world and includes basic food service skills; is hands-on, builds self-confidence and readies students for real world employment. Graduates of our training program also acquire skills in cleaning and sanitizing, proper use of kitchen utensils, food safety, commercial dish washing, communication in a work place, interviewing, and job seeking. The program typically lasts four weeks and culminates with a graduation ceremony. Each graduate, in the end, is prepared for job seeking, interviewing and working in the food service industry.

DOWNLOAD an application for our Training Program here.

Positive Vibe Foundation Training Board 2011-2012

Kathy Schuler, Training Program Director, Positive Vibe Foundation

Chris Welles, Co-Chair, Willow Oaks Country Club

Beth Conner, Co-Chair, Chesterfield Co. Public Schools

Denis Alshekie, Henrico Public Schools

Judy Averill, M.S., Chesterfield Co. Public Schools

Crystal Davis, Henrico Public Schools

Kelly Desclos, Richmond Public Schools

Donna Grumiaux, DRS

Kathy Hobbie, Henrico Public Schools

Judy howlett, Richmond Public Schools

Michelle Kitt, K12

John Steward, Henrico Public Schools