About
The Lawndale community was once the home of major manufacturing and retail operations. Companies such as International Harvester, Sears, Zenith, Sunbeam and Western Electric occupied the area. Riots that followed the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1968 led to the loss of 75% of Lawndale’s businesses. Lawndale was once referred to as “an industrial slum without the industry.”
Lawndale Business Renaissance Association takes on the task of revitalizing the areas industrial and commercial businesses. This is being accomplished by helping to bring new businesses; working to retain businesses and helping them grow through assistance in use of economic development programs and incentives. The re-growth of business in the area has a direct impact upon job creation. The outcome of this is a Lawndale Business Renaissance leading to a healthier and vibrant community.
Lawndale Business Renaissance Association is a 501c3 charitable organization.
“LBRA has been an incredible resource to Roscoe, providing guidance on grants that have allowed us to improve our buildings, hire local residents and navigate the challenges of operating a business. Bernard, and now Patrick, have been great advocates for all businesses and residents of the Lawndale and Little Village Communities.”
James W. Buik – President - Roscoe Co.Over the many years that we have been members, LBRA has helped us by making us aware of local grants and assisting us through the application process, providing opportunities for employee training, and gaining access to job fairs and local resident who are seeking employment. We have also enjoyed the networking opportunities that have been provided. This has helped us establish relationships with neighboring businesses, community organizations and local leaders.
George GattoPresident
Gatto Industrial Platers