Number 216 March 31, 2023 St. Louis
Thank You For Your Loyal Service, Ankica Vukomanovic!
For over two decades, since nearly the beginning of Justine PETERSEN, Ankica Vukomanovic has been as familiar and steadying a presence as anyone at the organization. Ankica came to JP after moving to the United States from Bosnia during the war. As JP’s finance manager, she has brought a level of diligence to help move the business in a positive direction forward. As a beloved member of the team, Ankica has brought a quiet demeanor yet unfailing wit, allowing for each person here to feel welcomed.
If anyone is deserving of a chapter filled with joy and relaxation, it’s Ankica. Fortunately, that’s exactly what she’s looking forward to. “I’m going to spend lots of time with my grandkids, and my friends and I are wanting to travel by train in various scenic places throughout the county.” She jokes that her husband will not be invited to join as he’ll be busy building a pond for their backyard and garden, where she is also planning to spend much of her time.
This is certainly not a “goodbye” and rather a “see you later,” as we anticipate Ankica popping in every now and then, especially at holiday gatherings where her dinner rolls have always been a fan favorite. That said, the day-to-day within the walls of JP will not be the same without Ankica’s smiling face.
Ankica, we are indebted for your fastidious service over the years and your incredible friendship. We wish you nothing but the best that life has to offer in your days ahead.
Asset Building Manager Partners with Criminal Justice Ministry, WashU Prison Education Project
On Saturday, March 25th, Justine PETERSEN’s Asset Building Manager, Tatiana Gillum partnered with the Criminal Justice Ministry, WashU Prison Education Project, and Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis for a second financial literacy session. In attendance were 25 Veterans, who are returning citizens from incarcerated periods. Tatiana provided them with credit building education, and access to several of JP’s products including Save2Build (a small credit line to build credit) and DRIVE (refinancing for high interest auto loans.) We are most excited and proud to not only work alongside these partners who provide tremendous work to the community, but the participants who are actively working towards success in their reenetry.
JP Chief Partnership Officer, Shawna Collier Presents at North City Town Hall
On Wednesday, March 22nd, Justine PETERSEN’s Chief Partnership Officer, Shawna Collier, presented to current and potential business owners at a a North [St. Louis] City Town Hall Meeting, hosted by Tashara Earl. Taking place at the new Northside Economic Empowerment Center in the former Sumner High School, Shawna presented alongside representatives from Enterprise Bank, TechSTL, and St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones (pictured center, with Shawna to the right, Tashara Earl to the left). Topics presented centered around the vast amount of financial resources St. Louis City residents are eligible for and should look to take advantage of. A very well attended event, the organizers are looking to replicate it for the community on future dates.
St. Louis City residents who want to learn more about JP’s small services can learn more here or reach out to Shawna.
Spring Clean Your Finances
Spring is officially here marking the time where many of us get ready to clean out the old and freshen up our spaces. This should apply to your finances as well. If looking to add some shine to yours, we encourage attending any of Prosperity Connection’s April classes.
March 29th – Rehabber Roundtable
Taking place from 5:30pm -7:30pm at JP’s Greencubator (1124 Lumiere Place Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63102 – north of the casino), this presentation will be most informative for developers and rehabbers.
April 5th – Homebuying Seminar
Hosted at the Delmar Divine (5501 Delmar Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63112) from 5:30pm – 7:30pm, home buyers can learn about the process and available funding options.
Mortgage Assistance for Illinois Homeowners
As a HUD certified counseling agency, Justine PETERSEN is here to support. We encourage anyone interested in learning more about mortgage assistance and the application process to contact us by emailing JPHomeTeam@justinepetersen.org. More information can also be found here.