Initial funding has been approved for the remodel of the existing Revolution Workshop structure at 3410 W Lake Street in East Garfield Park. Located just west of the intersection with N Homan Avenue on the eastern edge of the namesake park, the project will redesign a major portion of the nonprofit’s current home.
Rendering of Revolution Workshop by Future Firm
Rendering of Revolution Workshop by Future Firm
Acting as the developer themselves, Revolution Workshop is a social enterprise that partners with local businesses to provide free pre-apprenticeships and construction training for unemployed or underemployed people ages 18 to 40. Started in 2017, the organization also operates a second workshop in Roseland at 120 E 111th Street.
Rendering of Revolution Workshop by Future Firm
Rendering of Revolution Workshop by Future Firm
Now after four years in their current location, they have partnered with local architects Future Firm to remodel their 14,704 square-foot central location. The project will include a new lobby, renovated offices, upgrade MEP systems, and expanding the current Social Enterprise facilities. This will feature new meeting rooms, workspaces, exterior updates and color palette.
Rendering of Revolution Workshop by Future Firm
Rendering of Revolution Workshop by Future Firm
The improved spaces will allow Revolution to expand their services to 45 additional students, while also assisting in launching their new Construction Professional Pre-Apprenticeship Program. With an overall cost of $3.6 million, the Community Development Commission has approved $2.5 million in TIF funds for the project.
Construction is set to commence this fall and take a year to complete.
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Does the program work? How many people gained employment after completing their program? Graduation rate? I would hope every grant that is made is only made if there is proof of outcome commensurate with the size of the grant.
According to their website, they have an 82% graduation rate, an 84% placement rate and an 86% 3-month retain rate with a $20/hr average salary. I hope you apply the same level of scrutiny fossil fuel and other corporate subsidies and tax breaks.
If Karen was a development poster…