Drive Change NYC is a brand that is dedicated to driving change through quality employment opportunities for young people, specifically those who have been formerly incarcerated. They run a 4-month paid fellowship program that focuses on culinary training and professional development for these individuals. The United States has the highest incarceration rate in the world, and for a long time, New York State was one of only two states to treat 16-year-olds as adults in the criminal justice system.

This creates barriers to employment and hinders the economic and emotional well-being of these young people. In fact, there is a 70% chance of rearrest within 5 years for youth who have been incarcerated. Drive Change aims to address these challenges by creating quality employment pathways and supporting formerly incarcerated young people.

They work towards systemic change in the food and hospitality industry by reimagining what's possible. The hospitality sector has high turnover rates, and Drive Change challenges the industry to hire, train, and retain qualified young people, while also providing equitable and supportive workplaces. To support their mission, they provide education, training, and coaching to the leaders of their Hospitality for Social Justice restaurant network, with a focus on identity, power, and privilege.

Drive Change believes in rethinking the criminal injustice system and is committed to creating sustainable impact and empowering young individuals to succeed and grow professionally