North Lawndale Employment Network fosters second chances with job training, community support

CHICAGO (WGN) — A community-based organization continues to support many formerly incarcerated individuals in Chicago as they reintegrate into society. 

Established in 1999, the North Lawndale Employment Network (NLEN) aims to provide a better life for those given a second chance. No one knows that better than Sadie Joseph, who says she was imprisoned at 20 years old, up until the age of 47. 

Joseph turned to NLEN and never looked back.  

LATEST FROM WGN’S PATRICK ELWOOD: City, officers face lawsuit in deadly police chase involving stolen vehicle

“I came to North Lawndale Employment Network for help to get back on my feet,” she said. “I needed job readiness training, and so, when I came here, I went to an orientation and I asked him, ‘Do you stand on your mission statement because if you don’t, I’m not going to waste your time.’ And so they smiled at me and said, ‘Yes.'”

Since her involvement with NLEN, Joseph received a college degree and is now pursuing advanced degrees. She also owns her own home. But Joseph says she’s paying it forward, helping others achieve her success and more.

“The thing is, you have to take it one step at a time,” Joseph said. “You can’t expect it to happen overnight. “You’ve got to one-step it.”

Tyrone Kirkman, who survived being shot six times, is now one of NLEN’s clients. The 21-year-old has a young daughter, his mother, and grandmother, and says he never wants to go back to that life.  

“I’m hoping to get my life back on every track I want it to be on,” Kirkman said. 

Brenda Palms has remained the driving force of NLEN for more than 25 years. 

“What we do here at this campus is honestly to create pathways to employment for men and women who have perhaps made a mistake in life or maybe, having gained some of the skills they need to be competitive,” she said.

Palms is quick to add that what takes place at NLEN is only half of a winning formula. Employers must be willing to take a chance on an ex-convict, too. 

“I think what anyone will get from someone who comes through this program is an individual who is deeply committed to their success and who wants to contribute in the most incredible ways to society,” Palms said. 

Joseph echoed Palms’ sentiments, saying that each person’s journey starts with self-worth. 

“The team building is all about trusting the process,” she said. “Trust in yourself and trust in others.”