North Lawndale Employment Network (NLEN) is a comprehensive workforce development agency on Chicago’s West Side dedicated to advancing the economic outcomes of the community’s residents through innovative employment initiatives, including our social enterprises. In August 2021, North Lawndale Employment Network transitioned to a new campus which features a premier community café ~ beelove® café for residents and stakeholders, and Sweet Beginnings.
NLEN’s mission is to increase the earnings potential of the North Lawndale community through innovative employment initiatives that lead to economic advancement and an improved quality of life for residents.
NLEN presents beelove® café, where we serve up not only sweet treats and drinks, but also jobs supporting our not-for-profit mission to the community. Led by trailblazer Brenda Palms, NLEN created our first social enterprise, Sweet Beginnings, in 2005. Our newest adventure, beelove® café, strives to be a welcoming destination for everyone, celebrating the spirit of coffee and its power in connecting community. Here North Lawndale residents can convene and learn about NLEN programs while enjoying a range of coffee and specialty drinks made with raw and natural Chicagoland honey. beelove® café will feature an easy menu for those on-the-go, including locally made pastries and lunch items.
NLEN is seeking a qualified prepared food vendor to provide offering to our café on a daily basis and catering offerings for our upcoming events, meetings, and special occasions through our beelove® cafe. We are dedicated to delivering high-quality food and service to our clients and guests.