North Lawndale Employment Network FY23 Impact Report : simplebooklet.com

OUR PURPOSE. ON PURPOSE. Dear Friends, FY23 was all about standing in Our Purpose, On Purpose. It was a revolutionary year for the North Lawndale Employment Network and our two social enterprises Sweet Beginnings LLC. and the beelovecafe. Compassion, Knowledge, and Action have been at the forefront of guiding our intent to drivepopulation level impact throughout the North Lawndale community and the City of Chicago. Strategic partnerships, deepened collaborations, and intentional investments in our staffhave been at the center of our growth. And you, our stakeholders, supporters, donors, funders and champions have empowered usto lift our voice, raise the bar, stand in our boldness, and reimagine our future. This report illustrates the evolution and progression of NLEN, our programs, services,influence, and impact. You will see that our holistic approach to asset building and improving the quality of lifeencompasses a deep focus on training for industry recognized job skills and certifications,community violence intervention, financial literacy and digital upskilling, andcomprehensive wraparound support services. We are, because you believed, supported, and invested. Thank you for being an essentialpiece in our growth, success, and power to open doors of possibilities for individuals whoare far too often looked over and voiceless. Together, we are advancing our mission, creating opportunities, and mobilizing equity, OnPurpose. Bee well Brenda M. Palms

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296 steps to the top, our NLEN team's journey up the original Sears Tower, known as the Nichols Tower stands as a powerful testament to ourunity and strength. Elevating teamwork and culture with every step. Behind every successful climb are the cheerleaders who inspire us to reach the top.Meet the dedicated NLEN staff who fueled our 296-step journey with encouragement and cheers. At the pinnacle of 296 steps, a hug symbolizes more thanjust the end of a climb. It's the embodiment of our NLENteam's journey—marked by perseverance, support, and shared triumphs. Spreading sweetness and wellness with every wear! Ouramazing team member is rocking our latest swag, a chicsweatshirt that says it all: 'There is Power in Honey and Skin Care.'After conquering the original Sears Tower's 296 steps, we stand united, reflectingon the journey's lessons in perseverance, teamwork, and the strength found in every step together.

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A NEW ERAOF SERVICEIn the heart of Chicago's West Side, the North Lawndale Employment Network hasbeen a catalyst for change, empowerment, and hope. Our 24-year legacy ofempowering Chicago's North Lawndale and nearby communities has beenbolstered through strategic investments in our proven model.Since the opening of our state-of-the-art workforce campus in 2021, we've scaledour efforts to serve more individuals and communities, reflecting our unwaveringcommitment to economic advancement and quality of life improvements.www.nlen.orgThe Power of Place: NLEN'sWorkforce Campus and Its Rolein Mission AmplificationThe inauguration of our 20,000 sq ftworkforce campus marked a pivotalmoment in the evolution of NLEN,enabling us to centralize our programsand magnify our outreach. This strategicconsolidation has not only streamlinedour operations, but also amplified ourimpact, providing a robust platform forcomprehensive service delivery andcommunity empowerment.Our workforce campus shines as a beacon of empowerment and progress. Photo credit: Tom Harris

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At NLEN, we're dedicated to improving the quality of life for asset-limited, income-constrainedindividuals through a robust suite of workforce development services. Our holistic approachincludes job readiness training, advanced career skill-building programs, employment placement,and comprehensive wraparound supportive services. Tailored to elevate the economic andpersonal well-being of our participants, our core programs are strategically designed to empowerindividuals to secure sustainable employment and embark on rewarding career journeys that leadto an enhancement in their quality of life.U-Turn Permitted (UTP) – NLEN’s flagship job readiness training program helps returning residentsreintegrate into the community and secure employment. The program integrates clinical expertisewith a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach to building social-emotional wellness,employment skills, and financial acumen. Path to Prosperity – a version of UTP designed for individuals with barriers to employment but nopast or current involvement with the criminal legal system. Empowered Now – integrates UTP with structured on-the-job training at Sweet Beginnings, oursocial enterprise honey business, through an earn-and-learn program model that more effectivelyaddresses the basic needs of participants. LISC Chicago Financial Opportunity Center - supports people at any income level in buildingeconomic self-sufficiency. Each FOC client has access to a network of coaches that help themwith job placement, retention, and advancement; access to public and private benefits tosupplement earnings; and managing a budget.Moving Forward – a program providing middle-skills training and job placement in growing industrysectors including logistics, health care, and green technology. READI – Rapid Employment and Development Initiative, a large-scale, trauma informedemployment and supportive services program for the most high-risk, disconnected young adultsthat seeks to prevent community violence. Craft Your Path – NLEN’s comprehensive job readiness training program for job-seekers ages 18-24 who are not in school and looking to forge a career pathways within in-demand careers inhealthcare, hospitality, skilled trades, and transportation, or distribution and logistics!NLEN's Empowerment Programs Building Workforce PathwaysParticipants engage in rigorous mock Interviews, polishing their skills and confidence for asuccessful leap into the workforce.NLEN participants immerse themselves in hospitality careerlearning sessions, guided by the expertise of Hyatt volunteers.

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NLEN proudly hosted the North Lawndale Works' Legacy Builders Appreciation Reception, a heartfelt celebration of the collaboration andgenerosity of Old St. Pat's Church members. Their dedication of time, talent, and treasure is pivotal in our mission to uplift the North Lawndalecommunity by removing employment barriers.Illinois Senator Dick Durbin visits NLEN’s workforce campus, experiencing the sweettaste of success firsthand as he enjoys beelove ® urban honey produced by our veryown Sweet Beginnings apiaries. At NLEN's milestone graduation, a participant proudlydisplays his credentials, confidently ready to step into hisfuture career.A motivated job seeker converses with a potential employerat the NLEN’s job fair, eager to explore new career pathsand demonstrate their readiness for the workforce.At the Impact House of Chicago, NLEN's Associate Board kickoff meeting unfolds,featuring President and CEO Brenda Palms alongside Board Members Daniel Ashand Elayne Granger. Together, these young professionals and leaders embody aunited front, championing NLEN’s mission with passion and purpose.

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In FY23, as part of our bold mission to reduce NorthLawndale's unemployment rate by 10% by 2027, NLENhas hit critical milestones, showcasing our unwaveringdedication to fueling economic mobility, bridging talentwith meaningful opportunities, and elevating the quality oflife for those we serve.IMPACTBEYONDBARRIERSBy theNumbersOutcomes In FY23, 475 motivated job seekers and residents, determined to elevatetheir economic mobility, enrolled in our award-winning job readinessprogram, embarking on a transformative journey to improve their qualityof life.In FY23, through our focus on job readiness and employment placement,we placed 151 participants in jobs, with 64% in unsubsidized positions,highlighting our commitment to creating sustainable employmentopportunities.In FY23, our participants achieved remarkable progress in theirprofessional development by earning a total of 58 industry-recognizedcredentials. This accomplishment underscores the tangible impact of ourprograms in arming individuals with the skills and qualifications essentialfor success in their respective fields.47515158www.nlen.org2,995In FY23, we elevated our support, delivering over 2,995 hours of personalized coaching to participants, showcasing our intensified focuson individual empowerment and success.32% In FY23, our participants witnessed a remarkable 32% surge in their netincome, marking a significant milestone in their financial empowermentjourney.$17.23In FY23, we reached a significant milestone, with our participants earningan average hourly wage of $17.23, surpassing Chicago's minimum wage of$15.80. This achievement highlights the efficacy of our strategies inpromoting economic advancement and ensuring financial well-being forthe individuals we support.In FY23, NLEN distributed $732,742 in CEDA funds, a substantial increasefrom $458,758 in FY22. This enhancement of our economic assistanceefforts further empowered a greater number of residents towardsachieving stability and prosperity.$ 732,742

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The 19th Annual Sweet Beginnings Tea shines with NLEN’s Board of Directors, showcasing the leadership that inspires and advances our mission.At the 19th Annual Sweet Beginnings Tea, Brenda Palms,President and CEO, reflects on 25 years at the helm of theNorth Lawndale Employment Network. Her speech, infusedwith gratitude, commitment and vision, underscores aquarter-century of dedication to transforming lives.Sweet Beginnings LLC, an NLEN social enterprise, showcasesits beelove® products at Midway Airport's new EVOLVE byHudson store. This display embodies the journey ofempowerment and enterprise, bringing the essence of NorthLawndale to travelers far and wide.Capturing the essence of NLEN's origin story, generously sponsored by theSteans Family Foundation, this filming session marks a tribute to ourfoundational journey, celebrating the support and partnership that have fueledour growth and impact from NLEN’s inception. Featured in this photo are MikeKramer, Phil Adams and Dr. Michael McAfee. NLEN's READI team shines at the signature Sweet Beginnings Tea fundraiser,celebrating a triumphant day of product sales. In the spotlight is Charlotte Austin,NLEN's esteemed Production Specialist, who proudly received the 2024 DebraWesley Creating a Community That Works Award. encouragement and cheers.

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EXPANDING OURREACHAt the North Lawndale Employment Network, westand at the pivotal intersection of workforcedevelopment and social justice, driving economicmobility and addressing the wealth gap on Chicago'sWestside and beyond. Our mission is ambitious: todismantle systemic employment barriers, focusing onempowering those who encounter the mostsignificant obstacles in finding work.Our dedication extends to advocating for fair chancehiring practices, rooted in the belief that everyonedeserves the chance to work, grow, and enhancetheir community's well-being. This commitment isdeepened through our engagement in youthdevelopment and community violence interventionand prevention. By integrating these critical areas into our workforceprograms, we're not merely facilitating jobconnections; we're fostering safer, more resilientcommunities where economic equity is attainable foreveryone. Through comprehensive training, support,and advocacy, we're transforming lives andcommunities, making strides towards a future whereevery individual has the opportunity for prosperity,and contributing to a more equitable and peacefulsociety.www.nlen.orgServing 28 diverse zip codes, with 77% of ourefforts concentrated on Chicago’s Westside.North Lawndale's READI participants stand shoulder to shoulder witha Chicago Bears player, Kindle Vildor, embodying a powerfulpartnership in community violence intervention.NLEN program graduates proudly display their graduationcertificates, now joining the esteemed group of program alumni.

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In a touching role reversal, Everett later encouraged his father to enroll in the U-Turn Permittedprogram upon his release from prison in 2011. Dean Sr.'s successful completion of the programand his subsequent employment at a manufacturing company in North Lawndale marked asignificant milestone, symbolizing the positive cycle of impact and change within thecommunity. Professionally, Everett found his niche at Alpha Baking Company as a Merchandiser, enjoyingits flexible nature. However, his true passion lay in mentoring the youth. He founded abasketball program in 2012, which has since grown, reflecting his commitment to guiding andinspiring young minds. As a coach and a father to three girls, he embodies the role of a positiverole model, imparting wisdom and encouragement to his players. His ambition to elevate thisprogram to an official after-school activity and his efforts to establish it as a nonprofit with theLawndale Christian Development Corporation underscore his dedication to community service. Everett Dean's story is not just one of personal triumph over adversity; it is a testament to thestrength and resilience of the North Lawndale community, and the profound impact of localinitiatives like the U-Turn Permitted program in transforming lives. Above all, it is a story of aman living a purpose-driven life, fulfilling his roles as a loving father, a reliable employee, and agood citizen with dedication and integrity.Everett Dean's life story, deeply rooted in North Lawndale, is a profound narrative ofresilience, transformation, and community commitment. From his early years idolizing hisfather, Calvin Dean Sr., to becoming a beacon of hope in the very community he grew up in,Everett's journey is emblematic of the power of perseverance and the impact of localsupport systems. As a seven-year-old, Everett saw his father, aBurger King manager, as his hero andaspired to follow in his footsteps. DespiteDean Sr.'s involvement in criminal activitiesto support his family, Everett, shielded bychildhood naivety, cherished the care andlove he received. His life took a dramaticturn at 19 when he suffered a heart attack.During his recovery, his father, freshlyreleased from prison, was a constant sourceof encouragement and support. Everett's own brush with the law resulted inimprisonment from 2005 to 2008.Throughout this ordeal, his father'sunwavering support was his bedrock. Uponhis release, Everett enrolled in the U-TurnPermitted program, a pivotal decision thatheralded a new beginning in his life. Thisaward-winning job readiness programoffered by the North Lawndale EmploymentNetwork was instrumental in his personaland professional development, equippinghim with essential life skills and leading tomeaningful employment. Everett’s Story of Empowerment and Success

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DRIVINGECONOMICDEVELOPMENTOur campus has ignited economic growth with two leading social enterprisesat its core. Here are some highlights of the tangible impact we've made sinceopening: A WiFi tower on our campus provides essentialinternet access, bridging the digital divide forresidents. NLEN complements this with digitallearning workshops, in-demand credentials, andaccess to tech career pathways, equipping ourcommunity for the digital economy.Digital ConnectivityNLEN champions economic diversity and equity bypartnering with Black and Brown vendors,enhancing our local supply chain and fortifyingcommunity wealth, showcasing our commitment toshared growth and inclusivity.Supporting Local VendorsWe prioritize employing local residents withinour social enterprises, strengthening thecommunity's economic base.Local HiringOur partnership with Wintrust Bank brings full-service banking to our campus, promotingfinancial literacy and inclusion.Accessible Bankingwww.nlen.orgA study commissioned by We Rise Togetherand conducted by Mastercard has revealeda significant 59% increase in consumerspending around the NLEN campus, boostingthe local economy by an additional $1.85M. Consumer Spending SurgeTogether with Nourishing Hope, we are bridgingthe gap between food security and workforcedevelopment, affirming our pledge to more thanjust job creation. This dual-focused initiative iscentral to our mission of nurturing a communitywhere every individual can achieve their fullpotential. By combating food insecurity, we lay asolid foundation for a thriving workforce,underscoring the importance of well-being as thebackbone of economic resilience and prosperity.Harvesting OpportunityNLEN's LISC Chicago Financial Opportunity Centerpropels economic development by seamlesslyintegrating job placement, financial coaching, andincome support services. This holistic modelensures community members gain sustainableemployment, achieve financial literacy, and accessessential supports early, laying a foundation forlong-term economic stability and growth.Economic Empowerment Blueprint

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Governor Pritzker Signs Landmark Legislation for Transparency in Supervised Release, Marking a Milestone in Illinois' Criminal Justice Reform. In ahistoric event at NLEN, surrounded by Lt. Gov Juliana Stratton, key state and local officials, dedicated advocates, and celebrated artist andactivist Meek Mill—a vocal supporter of criminal legal reform—this legislation sets a new standard for accountability and progress in the state's pursuit of justice. NLEN's President and CEO, Brenda Palms, connects with youth at the annual signingday event, engaging in meaningful conversations about their career aspirations. Meek Mill applies beelove balm, blending his passion forjustice with support for NLEN’s social enterprise. Hiscommitment serves as a call to action, inviting everyone tocontribute to meaningful change through mindful purchasing.Fueled by our partnership with Lincoln Park Zoo and amutual commitment to 'Bees, Trees, and Opportunities,'local residents and NLEN unite to enrich our campus withbee-friendly native plants, beautifying our community inharmony with nature.In a toast to innovation and history, Haymarket Brewery collaborates with NLENto craft Harold’s ‘83 Honey, a specialty ale infused with our signature beelove®honey. This distinctive brew pays tribute to Harold Washington, Chicago'strailblazing first Black mayor, melding the sweetness of legacy with the boldness of progress.

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In FY23, NLEN's café proudly extended its services beyondtraditional boundaries, catering to both corporate and communityevents such as City Club of Chicago, NLCCC Breakfast, andSteans Family Foundation Community Meetings, among others. BEELOVE CAFÉ: A MODEL OFSOCIAL ENTERPRISE SUCCESSSales Growth Popular Items LoyaltyProgramwww.nlen.orgTraining andDevelopmentSupportingLocal Vendors CateringExcellenceIn FY23, our café's sales soared, with 2,500 cups of coffeeserved, showcasing our increasing community support andpopularity.In FY23, our most popular items were lemonade, caramelHoneycomb Latte, and drip coffee, each reflecting our café'scommitment to quality and customer favorites.In FY23, our loyalty program experienced significant expansion,growing from 554 to 2,923 members, showcasing our rapidlygrowing loyal customer base.In FY23, our impactful job experiences led to 66% of transitionalworkers gaining permanent employment, underscoring ourcommitment to career growth and stability.In FY23, we expanded our collaboration to include 5 local andminority food vendors, enhancing our café's diversity andcommunity support.Indulge in delicious drinks showcased at the beelovecafé. Sip on the sweet flavors of our signature honey-infused creations, crafted to delight your taste budsand brighten your day.:Guests immerse themselves in the world of beelove®products at our demo event in the beelove café.

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DATA-DRIVEN IMPACT: PURPOSEFULPARTNERSHIPS FUELING NORTHLAWNDALE'S REVITALIZATIONRooted in our mission to revitalize the North Lawndale community since 1999, NLEN hasseen remarkable growth and impact, propelled by the generous support of our donorsand strategic partnerships. This support was instrumental in establishing our newcampus in 2021, a milestone that enabled us to expand our services and deepen ourcommitment to the communities we serve. Among our valued partners, the ChicagoCommunity Trust’s We Rise Together initiative has been key in supporting our growth,not just through funding but also by empowering Black and Latinx communitiesalongside us. Notably, We Rise Together commissioned a Mastercard study that captured a 59%increase in local consumer spending, a direct result of the economic vitality our newcampus has injected into the area, amounting to an economic boost of approximately$1.85M. This significant development highlights the catalytic role of NLEN in the localeconomy and the transformative power of strategic collaboration and community-focused investments.This economic renaissance is particularly compelling against the backdrop of theLawndale Service Area Databook findings, which reported a staggering $124 millionannual economic leakage, with North Lawndale residents spending their wages outsidethe community. This context accentuates the importance of the consumer spendingsurge, marking a pivotal shift towards retaining wealth within the community andmitigating the longstanding trend of economic outflow. Through focused efforts andstrategic partnerships, NLEN is not just catalyzing local economic growth but alsoaddressing systemic financial disparities, paving the way for a more equitable andprosperous future for North Lawndale and its residents.www.nlen.org As the manager of NLEN Café, Nico blends her managementskills with her remarkable talent for coffee artistry, welcomingevery customer with genuine warmth. NLEN participants set up shop in our beelove café,showcasing and selling our signature honey and honey-infused skincare products.

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Empowerment. Impact. Progress.Craft Your Path offers a dynamic alternative to traditional college education, targeting youth aged 18-24. This program not onlyprovides essential skills and credentials but also emphasizes work-based learning and workshop completion, alongside educationalstipends, to propel participants into promising careers. Our annual Signing Day Event celebrates the ambition and commitment ofyoung individuals joining the Craft Your Path program. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Witherite Law Group for their support inmaking this transformative journey possible.Proud smiles and signed certificates in hand, our youth stand ready to embark on their journeys with the Craft Your Path Program.

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North Lawndale Employment Network: Achievements Since Workforce Campus OpeningSince the launch of our workforce campus, the North Lawndale Employment Network has been abeacon of hope and progress, catalyzing significant change in the North Lawndale community andbeyond. This detailed account captures just a few of our milestones demonstrating ourunwavering commitment to empowerment, innovation, and community transformation.2020: Establishing FoundationsChicago Prize Finalist: NLEN played a keyrole in the North Lawndale CommunityCoordinating Council's (NLCCC) submissionthat reached finalist status in the ChicagoPrize competition, highlighting our jointcommitment to revitalizing North LawndaleElevate Prize Fellowship: Brenda Palms wasawarded the Elevate Prize FoundationFellowship, highlighting our impactfulleadership..2021: Expanding Recognition and ImpactBeelove Café Acclaim: Named in theChicago Reader's Top 10 Best Cafes,showcasing our social enterprise'sexcellence.Gold Telly Award: p3 mediaworks honoredour 20th Anniversary Video, celebrating ourhistory and impact.Spirit of Mercy Award: Awarded by MercyHousing Lakefront, acknowledging ourcontributions to community development.Trailblazer Award: Received from theChicago Jobs Council for our innovativeemployment programs.Community First Award: FHLBank Chicagorecognized our economic developmenteffortsNLCCC shines as a 2020 Chicago Prize Finalist with 'Now is theTime: Advancing North Lawndale Together' - a testament toour commitment and collective effort.Beekeeping as a family affair! Dad, daughter, and son suit upto explore the buzzing world of bees at NLEN's National Honey Bee Day. NLEN's President and CEO, Brenda Palms, stands proud among Elevate PrizeLeadership and Winners at the 2022 Clinton Global Initiative in New York..

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North Lawndale Employment Network: Achievements Since Workforce Campus Opening2022: Recognition Across SectorsChicago Neighborhood DevelopmentAward: Received the Richard H. DriehausAward for outstanding nonprofit real estatedevelopment.IIDA RED Philanthropic Award: Honored ourcontributions to design and communityimpact.Greatest Impact Award: From AIA Illinois forour campus's construction value.Partner of the Year: Named by Public AlliesChicago, highlighting our collaborativesuccess.Economic Inclusion Award: With WintrustBank, from the American Bank AssociationFoundation.Beelove Café and Brenda PalmsRecognition: Continued accolades for ourcafé and leadership..2023: Bridging Gaps and Fostering FuturesNeighborhood Builders® Award: Bank ofAmerica honored NLEN for our communitybuilding efforts.Hart of It All Feature: Brenda Palms' workspotlighted by Kevin Hart, addressingfinancial literacy.Partner Awards: Received from NourishingHope and Sinai Community Institute for ourcollaborative impact.Silver Telly Award: p3 mediaworks' MarkProfile Video recognized, furthering ourstorytelling reach.

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Stakeholder Engagement and Signature EventsDistinguished Visits: Welcomed Governor JB Pritzker, Lt. Governor Julianna Stratton,Senator Dick Durbin, Microsoft's vice chair and president Brad Smith, founder andchairman of PSP Partners Penny Pritzker, and former Mayor Lori Lightfoot, enhancing ourengagement with elected officials.Strategic Partnerships: Cultivated and sustained with Senator Lakesia Collins, AlderwomanMonique Scott, Commissioner Dennis Deer, Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle, andCongressman Danny Davis, strengthening our community impact.Notable Events: Hosted the City Club of Chicago’s neighborhood meeting, Senate Bill 423signing with Governor JB Pritzker, Meek Mills, and Michael Rubin; Peace in the Streets withiHeartMedia and Witherite Law Group; and Microsoft's Accelerate Chicago launch,underscoring our campus as a hub for civic engagement.NLEN's Stakeholder Engagement and Signature Events highlight our role as a pivotalconvener, forging deep-rooted connections and hosting influential gatherings thatamplify community empowerment and civic engagement in North Lawndale. Microsoft Corp., in collaboration withcorporate, learning and communitypartners, announced the launch ofAccelerate Chicago at NLEN.City Club of Chicago hosts its firstneighborhood meeting: Pure Potential: TheOpportunity for Equitable EconomicDevelopment in Chicago at NLEN.Governor JB Pritzker and Lt. Governor JulianaStratton have been pivotal in our efforts topromote fair chances, jobs, equity, andeconomic mobility, directly improving thequality of life of those we serve.Governor Pritzker Signs LandmarkLegislation for Transparency in SupervisedRelease, Marking a Milestone in Illinois'Criminal Legal Reform. In a historic event atNLEN, surrounded by Lt. Gov JulianaStratton, key state and local officials,dedicated advocates, and celebrated artistand activist Meek Mill—a vocal supporter ofcriminal justice reform—this legislation setsa new standard for accountability andprogress in the state's pursuit of justice

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HOW YOU CAN HELPGIVE: Support Our MissionEvery donation to NLEN fuels our ability to provide essential employment services andtransformative programs to residents of Chicago’s West Side. Your financial support enables usto continue our work in empowering individuals with the tools, training, and opportunities theyneed to thrive. By giving, you're investing in a brighter future for the North Lawndale communityand beyondTogether, We Can Make a DifferenceWhether you choose to give, volunteer, or advocate, your support is invaluable to advancingNLEN's mission and enhancing the lives of countless individuals and families on Chicago’sWest Side. Join us in making a lasting impact and fostering a community where everyone hasthe opportunity to succeed.As a 501(c)(3) organization, NLEN cherishes every contribution towards our cause. Donations to us (Tax ID:36-4295189) are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law, enhancing the value of your generosity. Yoursupport fuels our continued commitment to the community, enabling life-changing programs and services.VOLUNTEER: Join Our EffortsVolunteers are the heartbeat of NLEN, bringing energy, expertise, and compassion to our variousprograms. By volunteering your time, you play a direct role in the positive impact we have on job-seekers across Chicago’s West Side. Whether it's through mock interviews, mentoring, workshopfacilitation, or supporting our social enterprises, your involvement makes a meaningful differencein the lives of those we serve.ADVOCATE: Be Our VoiceAdvocacy is a powerful tool in driving systemic change and raising awareness about the criticalissues facing our community. As an advocate for NLEN, you can help amplify our mission and theimportance of workforce development in achieving economic equity. Spread the word, engage withpolicymakers, and support initiatives that promote job creation, education, and fair employmentpractices. Together, we can build a more inclusive and prosperous society.GROW FOR THE BEES: Planting for Pollinators Enhance our ecosystem by planting bee-friendly native plants. This simple act supports vitalpollinators, enriches biodiversity, and sustains food systems. Transform any space into a sanctuaryfor bees, fostering environmental health and community well-being. Join us in nurturing nature'sworkers. Your green contribution makes a profound difference.

North Lawndale Employment Network FY23 Impact Report

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