Barbara Dodson Receives Community Service Award from Women Chefs & Restaurateurs
Barbara Dodson, Dinner Program Chef at Calvary Women’s Services, was recognized by Women Chefs & Restaurateurs (WCR) last night with their Community Service Award. The “Women Who Inspire” Awards Gala and Dinner was part of WCR’s 22nd Annual National Conference in New York City, which drew hundreds of world-class hospitality professionals. Renowned chefs and television personalities, Carla Hall and Gail Simmons, presented Ms. Dodson with the Award.
The Community Service Award honors a woman whose contributions in community or civic affairs have made a strong impact on the lives of others. Ms. Dodson was selected as the award recipient from a field of successful chefs and restaurant owners from around the country.
“I believe that food should be nutritious, but also prepared with lots of love,” Ms. Dodson said upon accepting the Community Service Award. “Being the chef at Calvary Women’s Services allows me to share my love of cooking, and I truly believe it’s where I’m supposed to be.”
Ms. Dodson is employed through Calvary’s STRIDE (Search Together to Resume Dignified Employment) Program and has served as Dinner Program Chef since October 2014. She provides not only meals for residents at Calvary, but opportunities for women to broaden their experiences, achieve good health and find pleasure in what they eat. She is a graduate of the DC Central Kitchen Culinary Job Training Program and has dedicated her career to preparing and sharing food with those most in need.
“Barbara is a talented and thoughtful chef, but she is also an outstanding role model and friend to women at Calvary. Her determination and spirit inspire all of us at Calvary, and we are thrilled for her to be recognized with this well-deserved award,” said Kris Thompson, Calvary’s executive director.
WCR’s mission is to advance the careers of women across the culinary industry through education, promotion, connection and inspiration. The organization gives women the opportunity to join a diverse professional network of peers, and magnify their voices within the culinary industry. WCR’s members include chefs, sommeliers, restaurateurs, manufacturers, farmers and industry executives from around the U.S.
For additional information about Calvary Women’s Services, please contact Amanda Griesser at (202) 678-2341 ext. 223 or agriesser@calvaryservices.org.