In the Press: Rising Stars Academy Fosters Opportunity through Food at Little Caesars Arena
Troy Michalkiewicz, the Executive Chef of Little Caesars Arena, helps Rising Stars Academy foster opportunity through food at Little Caesar Arena.
We’re excited to announce that Rising Stars Academy has been featured in a recent article in Ilitch News Hub highlighting our incredible partnership with Little Caesars Arena! In collaboration with Delaware North and the chefs at the arena, we are helping provide valuable career skills to adults with disabilities, creating opportunities for meaningful growth and development.
At Rising Stars Academy, we believe in empowering our students to achieve their full potential. Our six-acre urban farm, aquaponics system and bakery not only serve as educational spaces, but also as thriving vendors for Little Caesars Arena. The micro-greens grown on our farm, along with pie crusts and focaccia made by our students, are used in the arena's food offerings, supporting a fresh, sustainable food system.
This partnership goes beyond just food production. Our students are gaining hands-on training in a professional kitchen, working alongside Delaware North chefs and learning critical skills for the food service industry. The goal is not only to teach but also to prepare them for full-time employment opportunities, including with Delaware North.
As Mark Prentiss, co-founder of Rising Stars Academy, shared, "The amount of time they spend making sure students learn the necessary skills is nothing short of amazing. The entire organization has taken the students under their wing, not only to learn these tasks, but also the importance of family.”
This collaboration is proof that when communities come together, incredible things can happen. We are incredibly proud of our students and grateful for the continued support from Little Caesars Arena, Delaware North, and Chef Troy and Chef Christian.
