The Chicago neighborhood of Lawndale was once home to several industries that developed in the early 1900s, most notably the Sears, Roebuck & Co. mail order facility and administrative headquarters. The neighborhood's population grew rapidly in that time and has since stabilized; the 2000 census quoted the population at 41,768. The community has had its share of ups and downs, but agencies and organizations in Chicago have provided innovative programs to sustain the community in housing, education, and youth development. The 1990s saw the building of a new shopping center, new housing, and three new daycare centers, which are helping immensely.

Located on Chicago's west side, Lawndale is bounded by Western Avenue on the east and Cicero Avenue on the west. The Lawndale Chicago Farmers Market is a popular destination for the locals from June to October, located at 1111 S. Homan.

Both the Forest Park and Cermak branches of the El Blue Line run through Lawndale, as well as interstate 290. CTA busses run on most of the major streets in this neighborhood.