For more than 50 years, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center (ESLC) has played an essential role in the Metro East Area offering services and educational opportunities that have empowered area citizens to create a strong community.
The ESLC operates programs funded through federal, state and local grants with an annual budget of more than $15 million.
Quality services and training is the staple of the Center that assists clients from Diapers to Diplomas.
The ESLC offers educational programs and services that address the educational and life skills needs of the community with the purpose of "Empowering People . . . Strengthening Communities."







Specifically, our scope of impact reaches more than 6,000 clients a year. It's a feat that could only be accomplished because of the ESLC's dedicated and expert staff members who have worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for individuals and families, and to generate enthusiasm and empowerment by mobilizing the University's resources to provide educational opportunities.
The ESLC is well on its way to achieving its vision of becoming "A nationally recognized service delivery center that offers exemplary service and innovative program that equip diverse populations for responsible citizenship, productive employment, and economic development in a changing global society." And to date, the Center remains a place in the Metro East Area where Hope Happens!