The Foundation planted the seed that has grown into an exciting partnership with the Chicago Chapter and Little City. This partnership has expanded our impact in the community and created rewarding volunteer opportunities for all Chapter members. The new restaurant training center at Little City, funded by the Foundation and Chapter, has been completed. Chapter members have developed a 10-session, LifePath Culinary and Kitchen Arts Program for highly functioning residents at Little City. The first class of eight participants graduated in 2017 and are prepared for employment outside the Little City campus, perhaps joining the Little City residents already employed at Chicago area clubs. A new training session is scheduled for late winter of 2018. The opportunity for meaningful employment can truly change the lives of these residents.

Phase two of our partnership is the renovation of Little City's Center for Employment and Business Opportunities. The building, once renovation is complete, will allow for additional classrooms for employment training, provide "virtual" spaces that mirror actual work environments and allow the number of participants to grow. Currently, 88 individuals participate on Little City's day and vocational programs. It is expected that this number will increase by 12% in the next year. The new environment will be conducive to providing the very best training to individuals with disabilities so they may participate in the mainstream of life and secure competitive, community employment.  

Center for Employment and Business Development Renovation Article ​