Industry recognition, scholarships and collaboration – community connection is key to our success as an industry.
MCHA is a strong supporter of programs offered at the Rancho Cielo Youth Campus and the facility’s Drummond Culinary Academy. The Salinas nonprofit educates underserved youth, trains them for jobs and teaches self-sufficiency. The Rancho Cielo Committee works to further strengthen the relationship between MCHA members and the Rancho Cielo team.
Retired Monterey County Superior Court Judge John Phillips and his wife, Patti, teamed up with hospitality, business and community leaders to open Rancho Cielo in 2004. Since then, MCHA members have donated time, money and expertise. Tourism and culinary professionals serve as mentors and teach classes. They provide resume and interview guidance, donate professional attire to students lacking in resources, and host white tablecloth dinners that introduce students to levels of social etiquette and service they might encounter in future jobs. MCHA members support annual fundraisers for Rancho Cielo, as well.
Many Rancho Cielo participants study at the Drummond Culinary Academy, completing academy-level culinary instruction while earning a high school diploma. Students learn the ins-and-outs of the restaurant business, including food prep, service, presentation and more. They cook at the center’s on-site cafe, and they also complete internships and job training at area restaurants and resorts. Local restaurants and the culinary teams at area resorts hire many of these talented individuals. Rancho Cielo graduates have also gone on to study at some of the nation’s most respected culinary institutions.
A fun filled afternoon, geared towards family and friendly competitions annually at the Monterey Fairgrounds.
Our annual awards program is designed to recognize all outstanding people working in the hospitality industry who perform beyond expectations. Nominations are open to the employees of any business that is a member of MCHA, including “Excellence in Hospitality,” “Special Achievement,” and ultimate “Papa Vince Award.”
Honoring those that have made a lifetime of significant contributions and positive influence on hospitality community, including stories that inspire others to higher standards in respective careers or community awareness.
First awarded in 1983 to Cannery Row Co-Founder, Ted Balestreri, the Nomination for the Hospitality Professional of the Year award is awarded for individual’s on-going service to the local hospitality industry.
“The Hospy”: MCHA Volunteer of the Year Award
“The Hospy” : MCHA Volunteer Business of the Year Award
Marc Kelley of Private Public Strategic Solutions was the MCHA 2022 Volunteer of the Year. Thank you, Marc, for all that you do!