North Lawndale
A neighborhood with deep roots and bold plans for what comes next.
Since 1996, Steans Family Foundation has worked alongside residents and organizations in this west side community to strengthen education, expand employment, foster community safety and well-being, and build lasting economic opportunity.
We envision North Lawndale as a growing community with a thriving economy where residents, especially the neighborhood’s historically Black population, have strong educational and economic outcomes.
Our grantmaking in North Lawndale supports education, workforce development, economic mobility, entrepreneurship, violence prevention and community safety, as well as capacity-building for community-based organizations — all guided by the community’s own Quality of Life Plan.
North Lawndale Catalyst Initiative (NLCI)
NLCI is an economic development vehicle designed to combat historic disinvestment through infrastructure revitalization, creation of living-wage jobs, business development, and Black wealth-building.
The anchor of this strategy is Fillmore Center, a 169,000 square foot hub at 4100 W. Fillmore, which employs individuals from North Lawndale and the surrounding area in its flagship business: Fillmore Linen Service.
SPOTLIGHT
Local Opportunity at Fillmore Linen Service
This healthcare laundry operation inside Fillmore Center was created to offer high-quality linen service to Chicago area healthcare facilities — and to provide living-wage jobs, career advancement, and wrap-around support for North Lawndale residents.
"We are dedicated to both top-tier service and creating meaningful jobs in North Lawndale, making a positive impact on the community.”
—Cliff Barber, CEO, Fillmore Linen Service
SPOTLIGHT