Founded in 1996, The Enterprising Kitchen (TEK) of Chicago supports lower income women who are seeking self-sufficiency and economic independence. The women of TEK manufacture all-natural soap products that are sold in over 300 retail stores across the country. Through this enterprise, women receive intensive workforce preparation and skills development needed to maximize the individual potential in today’s society.

Upon completion of 6–12 months training, the women of TEK graduate from a three-part program. Part one strengthens basic skills (reading, writing and math), cognitive skills (creative thinking, decision making and problem solving) and personal skills (self-esteem and self-management). Part two supports core competencies, such as interpersonal skills and the ability to work with information systems and technology. Part three incorporates job skills into career planning.

With the help of the $5,000 J. Jill Compassion Fund grant, The Enterprising Kitchen will further develop its job skills program, which provides job-training services to a determined group of women working toward independence.

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For more information on The Enterprising Kitchen, please contact:
The Enterprising Kitchen
4426 North Ravenswood
Chicago, Illinois 60640
phone: 773.506.3880
web site: www.theenterprisingkitchen.org