North Lawndale Employment Network

North Lawndale Employment Network

The North Lawndale Employment Network (NLEN) is a non-profit organization based in Chicago, Illinois that is dedicated to improving the lives of residents in the North Lawndale community by providing opportunities for employment, skills training, and financial stability. NLEN was founded in 1999 with the mission of assisting individuals with barriers to employment in finding meaningful work and building sustainable careers.

One of the flagship programs offered by NLEN is the U-Turn Permitted program, which provides comprehensive support to individuals with criminal records who are seeking to re-enter the workforce. Through this program, participants receive job readiness training, access to job placement services, and ongoing support to help overcome the challenges they may face in securing and maintaining employment.

In addition to the U-Turn Permitted program, NLEN also offers a range of other services and initiatives designed to support job seekers in North Lawndale. These include the Center for Working Families, which offers financial coaching and resources to help individuals achieve financial stability, and the Sweet Beginnings program, which provides job training and employment opportunities in beekeeping and honey production.

Furthermore, NLEN operates the North Lawndale Employment Network Social Enterprise, which includes a number of businesses that provide employment opportunities for individuals in the community. These social enterprises include the Sweet Beginnings Honey and Skin Care line, which produces a range of natural skincare products using honey harvested from NLEN's urban apiaries, as well as the Harvesting Health Cafe, a café located in the North Lawndale community that offers healthy food options and job opportunities for local residents.

Overall, the North Lawndale Employment Network plays a vital role in the community by providing support and resources to individuals seeking employment and financial stability. Through its programs and services, NLEN helps to break down barriers to employment and empower individuals to build sustainable careers and achieve economic independence.

If you are interested in learning more about the North Lawndale Employment Network or getting involved with their programs, you can visit their website at https://nlen.org/ for more information.