The original ‘Sears Tower,’ a 14-story building that provided management offices on the Sears campus, is now the John D. and Alexandra C. Nichols Tower.
Vacant for many years, the building was restored in 2016 with generous support from the Nichols family and is now a hub for nonprofit arts, multi-media education, youth leadership development, job training, and more.
Tenants include the following service providers.
AMPT
AMPT: Advancing Nonprofits is committed to strengthening the organizational health and support long-term development of small nonprofits on Chicago’s west and south sides while prioritizing Black- and Latine-led community organizations. Simultaneously, AMPT is working to transform philanthropy by addressing systemic racial inequities and serving as a model for anti-racist systems and processes. Learn more.
IFF
IFF is a mission-driven lender, developer, and consultant that helps communities thrive. Across the Midwest, they work at the nexus of facilities and finance to help nonprofits and other service providers to create safe, inspiring spaces that enable them to achieve their missions and support their communities. IFF is a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) certified by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. They also serve as a community development partner to FHS. Learn more.
Lawndale Business Renaissance Association
Lawndale Business Renaissance Association’s mission is to revitalize businesses, both industrial and commercial, in the Lawndale community. The focus of the organization is to bring new businesses to the area and the retention and expansion of existing businesses. Through this focus existing and new jobs will be created making the overall community healthier. This task will be accomplished through the use of city, county, state and federal programs and incentives. Learn more.
Options for Youth
Options for Youth supports vulnerable adolescents in the Chicago area and helps them create positive options for their futures. Learn more.
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) will introduce a highly integrated curriculum in the visual arts, design, and technology designed to encourage deep collaborations with the North Lawndale community. SAIC will offer both short workshops and full courses aimed at community residents. An Artist in Residence Program will collaborate with nearby communities around themes of social and civic engagement, public and community art, urban studies, and urban agriculture. Learn more.
Westside Insurance Agency, LLC
Westside Insurance Agency’s goal is to assist individuals in protecting their lives and their assets. They represent a number of insurance companies so their clients have multiple choices. Learn more.