Corrections
News | Community

Two Summits, One Mission: Aramark Volunteers Give Back to Communities

December 3, 2025

   

Corrections Summit: Backpacks for Kids

At this year’s Aramark Corrections Summit, attendees came together to support Children of Inmates, a nonprofit that helps kids maintain connections with incarcerated parents. Volunteers packed 150 backpacks and snack bags to bring comfort and encouragement to these children.

Participants also heard from Dr. Shellie Solomon, President of Children of Inmates and CEO of Justice & Security Strategies, and Commissioner Kionne L. McGhee, Vice President of External Affairs. Both shared powerful stories of resilience and advocacy, including a touching moment when a young boy called Dr. Solomon his “superhero” after she helped him visit his father.

“We were honored to support Children of Inmates and contribute to their mission,” said Theresa Ellsler, Aramark Vice President of Florida DOC. “The generosity and enthusiasm of our Summit attendees truly made a difference.”

The event also highlighted the transformative power of IN2WORK, Aramark’s job training program for incarcerated individuals. One volunteer was a former participant, now an Aramark team member, showing how the program creates career pathways and fosters a spirit of giving back.

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks to the collective efforts of the Aramark Corrections community, the event helped brighten the lives of children and families impacted by incarceration – demonstrating the power of compassion, opportunity, and collaboration.

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lead summit

LEAD Summit: Creativity Meets Care

On October 28, LEAD (Leaders & Employees of African Descent) Employee Resource Group recently hosted its fifth annual summit—an inspiring multi-day event focused on growth, connection, and leadership. During the summit, employees decorated and filled 150 pencil cases with school supplies for students at Common Place Philly.


“Leading this event during the summit was an incredible experience. Giving back to students reminded us why community engagement matters,” said Kelly Groomes-Wilkins, HR Specialist for Aramark Collegiate Hospitality.


The summit also featured workshops, speakers, and panels designed to strengthen talent and build connections while reinforcing Aramark’s commitment to community impact.


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