For generations, the NYC subway has carried New Yorkers toward opportunity—new neighborhoods, new jobs, new chapters. This year, we’re inviting you to ride along with Drive Change and follow the journeys of young, justice-involved New Yorkers training for what’s next. Each story is a reminder that when someone has access to training, mentorship, and a supportive community, they can succeed. Step in, meet the riders, and see how your support fuels the next stop.

Drive Change is reimagining opportunity for justice-involved youth through careers in food & hospitality. We provide training, social support, and pathways to advance their economic mobility and overall well-being.

We are a team of change makers committed to advancing the economic mobility of justice-involved young New Yorkers through training, resources, and holistic care.

Our programs are rooted in the belief that everyone deserves an opportunity to thrive personally and professionally, and that hospitality can be a tool for social justice.

More than 2 million New Yorkers have a criminal record, collectively losing approximately $12.6 billion in earnings annually due to employment barriers.

Served through our Fellowship Program each year

Fellows complete our 3-month intensive culinary training program

Receive free, nutrient-rich groceries and hot meals each year

We create systemic change and sustainable impact through boldly reimagining what’s possible for the food & hospitality industry.

At Drive Change, we are fueling fellows’ futures and helping them reimagine what is possible for themselves, their families, and their communities. 

A three-month paid training experience that teaches culinary arts, leadership development, and centers mental health and healing, preparing fellows to successfully enter the workforce. 

Our Culinary Access & Relief Events (CARE) provide our local Brooklyn community members experiencing food insecurity with free, thoughtfully curated, culturally respectful, nutritious food.

Hospitality for Social Justice (HSJ) is a network of NYC industry leaders committed to investing in the professional development and well-being of their employees, creating environments where young people who have been impacted by the legal system can build careers of dignity.

Drive Change Foods is a social enterprise using catering and street food to empower formerly incarcerated youth and fuel futures through hospitality.

We cannot do this work alone. Become a member of our committed network of volunteers and community partners.

You have the power to shape the future for generations — let’s build that future together.