Open-Air Timber Frame Dining Pavilion in Utah: A Second-Chance Success Story
A Mission-Focused Restaurant With a Purpose Beyond the Plate
Meet Jim Leany — The Man Changing Lives, One Meal at a Time
At TruReligion Pancake & Steakhouse, owner Jim Leany isn’t just serving breakfast—he’s serving second chances.
Beneath a custom-built open-air timber frame dining pavilion by Western Timber Frame™, Jim has built more than a dining space. He’s created a powerful platform for hope, redemption, and real change.
“It doesn’t matter what religion you belong to—true service is always part of it.”
— Jim Leany, Owner, TruReligion Pancake & Steakhouse
A Program of Redemption: “Second Chances”
Jim’s vision for TruReligion extends far beyond food. Through a unique second-chance employment program, participants start as dishwashers and rise to become owners—all within a mission that feeds both body and soul.
After graduating from the program, individuals step into assistant manager roles and can eventually earn up to 20% of net profit in new TruReligion locations.
Here’s how the program works:
- Partnered Referrals: Candidates are selected through trusted organizations such as LDS Social Services, Catholic Outreach, and Veterans Associations.
- Supportive Start: Housing, utilities, and transportation—including a commuter bike—are covered until their first paycheck arrives.
- Living Wages: Every participant earns a fair wage from day one, empowering them to save, stabilize, and succeed.
- Culinary Training: Thanks to a partnership with Utah Valley University, individuals can work part-time at TruReligion while earning an AOS degree in culinary arts.
“We don’t toss a few coins and feel good—we walk with them until they succeed.”
— Jim Leany
From Dishwasher to 20 Percent Owner
Once their education is complete, graduates are on track to become assistant managers. From there, the opportunity grows.
“As a result, each well-run breakfast house becomes a vehicle for ownership—where managers can earn up to 20% of the net profit.”
That equity transforms everything—from how they serve customers to how they mop the floor. They aren’t just employees. They’re owners.
“It changes everything—how they serve, how they clean, how they connect with guests. They’re owners.”
A Timber Frame Pavilion That Reflects the Mission
Surrounding the dining area is a masterfully crafted Western Timber Frame™ commercial pavilion, featuring:
- TimberVolt® integrated power systems
- Elegant post-mounted lanterns
- A latticed timber frame fence that adds both beauty and definition
These handcrafted elements support more than ambiance—they support a mission rooted in dignity and detail.
Q.S.C.C. Meets Hand‑Crafted Timber
Quality, Service, Cleanliness, Consistency
Inside TruReligion, there’s more than good food. There’s a code:
- Quality: Ingredients are hand-picked from trusted local sources—from Manti salt and Utah Valley eggs to Heber creamery butter and even Dominican Republic coffee beans, roasted by a family who now lives locally.
- Service: Guests are cared for not just at the table, but also through service in the community.
- Cleanliness: Sparkling restrooms and an open kitchen show there’s nothing to hide.
- Consistency: Every meal delivers a reliable, repeatable experience—from the first visit to the fiftieth.
“We want a Best of State award for the cleanest bathrooms in Utah.”
Alfresco Dining, Reimagined
Jim didn’t just want a patio. He envisioned one of Utah’s finest open-air dining experiences—and Western Timber Frame™ delivered.
“When I saw the quality, the guarantees—they had me mesmerized. I said, ‘This is it. This is what we need.’”
The pavilion was fully assembled in just one day, providing full protection from wind, integrated TimberVolt® power, and glowing lanterns that keep the space warm and inviting long after sunset.
“I joked, ‘I’ll buy you breakfast, lunch, and dinner if you get it up in a day.’ They finished by 6 p.m. That’s amazing.”
Why Western Timber Frame™ Was the Right Choice
“Best of State. Dozens of gold medals. That told me all I needed to know. I wanted the best for our alfresco dining—and now we have it.”
From initial vision to final reveal, Jim and Western Timber Frame™ created a space where history, hospitality, and hope converge.
“And I like dealing with local businesses that know what they’re doing. Hopefully, I can follow in Western Timber Frame’s footsteps—because they’ve got it figured out.”
Jim spread his arms and shouted, “Voilà!”—because this pavilion isn’t just a design. It’s a declaration.
