In 1983, a group of churches from varying denominations, along with several social service agencies, got together to address an underlying problem facing many individuals and families in St. Louis’ south city: unemployment. The groups held the ideal that employment is more than a way of making ends meet. Employment is the root of healthy pride in oneself, family, and community.
Together, they founded the Near Southside Employment Coalition (NSEC), a non-profit agency dedicated to helping people become self-sufficient through long-term employment.
NSEC is its own 501© (3) nonprofit. We provide comprehensive employment services at no cost to our clients. Our group focuses on helping people with significant challenges and obstacles enter the workplace and achieve long-term employment.
History of Our Building
Our space identifies who we are and what we do. It serves as a symbol of our place in the fabric of South St. Louis. Throughout several generations, 2649 Pestalozzi has served our community in many ways including a car repair garage, an environmental risk assessment firm, and a job training facility for Human Energies (Joint Neighborhood Ministries (JNM) served on the Board).
In 1998, Human Energies, through the auspices of Ms. Joyce Clayton, 
offered NSEC ownership of the building to continue their own employment & training services. Two years later, they moved their entire operations to this location. Then, in 2009, NSEC was selected by Rebuilding Together-St. Louis to receive a $5,000 grant for improving the building façade and interior. These improvements, conducted by Boeing Volunteers with Rebuilding Together, included the construction of the computer lab and a conference room. With these additions, NSEC holds job skills training and meetings and continues to serve our community.