The mission of Chicagoland Lutheran Educational Foundation (CLEF) is to empower urban Lutheran schools to deliver innovative, quality education in a Christian environment. CLEF was established by a group of Christian, Chicago-area business leaders in 1993. It's vision is that children in Chicagoland have the opportunity to experience Christ’s love and grace through a high quality, Christian-values based education in order to reach their potential and fulfill their vocation. T Since 1993, CLEF has been making grants to schools for scholarships, curriculum materials, technology, special education programs, teacher salary support, and urgently needed building maintenance and other needs. Chicago Lutheran schools are neighborhood schools. Located throughout the city, they serve children of all races, creeds and economic backgrounds. They are an important educational alternative for many families.