From Vision to Reality
Discover our latest projects, where local ownership, real estate development, and intentional investment are creating lasting impact.
Community Changemakers Amplify Their Impact with East Freedman & Main
"We work for you. We respect your vision and values for your community, and we bring the right tools and resources so you can achieve your goals quickly and at scale."
Elisse Douglass
Founder and Managing Partner, East Freedman & MainCase Study:
The Lawndale Christian Development Corporation (LCDC) has been a community leader for over 35 years, driving transformative change in Chicago’s North Lawndale neighborhood. Since partnering with East Freedman & Main in September 2022, LCDC has accelerated its impact, constructing affordable housing, incubating local businesses, and developing a community athletic center.
Key Achievements:
- Affordable Housing Construction: Over 360 units built, contributing to $100 million in community investments.
- Reclaiming Chicago Campaign: LCDC’s mission to build 1,000 affordable for-sale homes to bolster community wealth.
- Acquisition Fund: Secured to protect against gentrification by purchasing land for future commercial developments.
- ReConstruction West Trade School: Launching in 2024 to provide pathways to high-income jobs for local residents.
- MLK Legacy Campus Extension: A 160,000 sq. ft. sports facility that will serve as a community hub for athletic activities.
- 1600 South Lawndale Project: Arts, retail, and production space to incubate local businesses and worker cooperatives.
A Collaborative Vision
East Freedman & Main’s strategic guidance has enabled LCDC to move from “surviving to thriving,” fostering economic growth, protecting against gentrification, and creating opportunities for the next generation of changemakers.
Work In Progress
Philadelphia, PA
Kansas City, Mo
Bronx, NY
Los Angeles, CA
Stay in the Know
Our newsletter is your source for the latest updates, news, and community highlights. Sign up below: