Number 280 June 28, 2024 St. Louis
Recently, we have updated and refined our organizational value statements to ensure they reflect our ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation.
Our value statements are (J)oy for the Impact, (P)eople-Focused, (H)ard-Working, (R)esponsible, and (C)hange-Oriented. These five values define JPHRC and represent our core identity. This week, we begin with the letter H, focusing on the hard work that we do in order to provide excellence in our community. We extend our gratitude to Claire Schell for her invaluable assistance with all of these initiatives.
The Justine PETERSEN Approach to Hard Work: Embracing Challenges with Determination and Dedication
At Justine PETERSEN, we take pride in our commitment to hard work, guided by a set of core principles that define our approach to every task and challenge. Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that success is achieved through perseverance, innovation, and a willingness to go the extra mile. Here are the key principles that shape our work ethic:
Embracing Complex Challenges
We are not afraid of complex challenges. We welcome them as opportunities to grow and make a significant impact. Whether it’s developing new financial products, navigating regulatory landscapes, or addressing the unique needs of our clients, we tackle each challenge with confidence and creativity. Our team is equipped with the expertise and determination to find innovative solutions, no matter how intricate the problem is.
Determined to Find Solutions
At Justine PETERSEN, we are determined to do what it takes to find a solution. This determination drives us to explore every avenue, think outside the box, and persist until we achieve the desired outcome. We understand that finding the right solution often requires patience, resilience, and a willingness to learn from failures. Our determination ensures that we will never give up, even in the face of obstacles.
Rolling Up Our Sleeves
We are willing to roll up our sleeves and get to work. Our team is dedicated to putting in the effort required to achieve our goals. This means being hands-on, proactive, and fully engaged in every project. We believe that hard work is not just about effort, but also about a positive attitude and a collaborative spirit. By working together and supporting each other, we can accomplish great things.
Going Above and Beyond
We will go above and beyond our job responsibilities. At Justine PETERSEN, our dedication means exceeding expectations and delivering exceptional results. Our team members are committed to going the extra mile, whether it’s staying late to finish a project, offering assistance to colleagues, or finding new ways to add value to our clients. This commitment to excellence sets us apart and drives our success.
Balancing Work and Life
It’s important to note that our commitment to hard work does not come at the expense of a healthy work-life balance. We recognize that sustainable success requires taking care of ourselves and our well-being. Our approach to hard work is not about relentless competitiveness or sacrificing personal time. Instead, it’s about being efficient, focused, and maintaining a balanced approach to work and life.
At Justine PETERSEN, hard work is a cornerstone of our values. It reflects our dedication to our mission, clients, and each other. By embracing challenges, staying determined, rolling up our sleeves, and going above and beyond, we continue to make a positive impact and achieve lasting success.
Celebrating the Resilience and Power of African-American Music
In 1995, Michael Jackson released “They Don’t Care About Us,” a song that speaks against hate towards any group of people. This message remains profoundly relevant today, as we’ve recently witnessed acts of hate directed at the LGBTQ+ and African-American communities. However, alongside this hate, we’ve also seen remarkable strength and resilience from both communities.
June, designated as African American Music Appreciation Month by President Jimmy Carter in 1979, is a time to honor the rich heritage and profound impact of African-American music. This music has been an integral part of American culture since the country’s founding and even before that, dating back to the seventeenth century.
The Journey of African-American Music
The story of African-American music is one of extraordinary resilience and creativity, rooted in the deep history of African people brought to America through the transatlantic slave trade. Despite the immense hardship and suffering, these individuals carried with them their rich musical traditions, characterized by unique rhymes and rhythms.
Upon their arrival in America, music became a crucial aspect of their daily lives. It was a source of solace, resistance, and communication amidst the brutal reality of slavery. Enslaved Africans used music as a form of rebellion, embedding messages in their songs that their oppressors could not understand. These musical expressions were powerful assertions of their identity and resilience.
The Legacy of African-American Music
African-American music’s influence extends far beyond the era of slavery, continuing to shape contemporary music genres and movements. This legacy is evident in the work of artists such as N.W.A., whose raw narratives addressed societal issues, and Michael Jackson, whose “They Don’t Care About Us” became an anthem against discrimination. Aretha Franklin’s “RESPECT” and Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On?” are other iconic songs that reflect the struggles and calls for justice and equality.
These songs are more than just musical compositions; they are historical artifacts that tell the story of a people’s enduring spirit and unyielding fight for dignity and rights. They invite listeners to reflect on the history and emotions they convey and celebrate the rich heritage of African-American music.
Honoring African-American Music Heritage
As we observe African American Music Heritage Month, it is a fitting time to honor and appreciate the profound impact of this music. It’s a time to listen deeply to these songs, understand the history and emotions they convey, and recognize their indelible mark on the world. The journey of African-American music—from the sorrowful fields of the past to the vibrant, diverse soundscape of today—is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and enduring spirit of people who have always found strength and expression through their music.
In this spirit, it is time for us to stand up against hate and prejudices. It is time for us to stand together with one another, united in our efforts to create a world where everyone is respected and valued. Let us celebrate African-American music not only for its artistic brilliance but also for its powerful role in the ongoing fight for justice and equality. In doing so, we honor the legacy of those who have come before us and inspire future generations to continue the journey.
Want to read more? Of course, should be the answer!
15 Essential Songs You Must Listen to for African-American Music Appreciation Month
Celebrating Black Music Month
Sullivan, Megan. “African-American music as rebellion: From slave song to hip-hop.” Discoveries 3 (2001): 21-39.
Happy Pride Month!
Happy Pride Month! Sunday, June 30th is St. Louis’ Grand Pride Parade! It is supposed to be gorgeous out. Go to the 2024 St. Louis Pride website to find out the details!
Notable Visit by Aspen Institute and EAC-Global Representatives to St. Louis
Pictured from left to right: Bryn Morgan, Maureen Conway, Marcus Bolden, Cooper Desmond, Tim Ogden and Sheri Flanigan-Vazquez
Bryn Morgan, Tim Ogden, and Maureen Conway from the Aspen Institute, along with Cooper Desmond from EAC-Global, recently visited St. Louis as part of the CDFI Small Business Job Quality Demonstration program. During their visit, they met with Sheri Flanigan-Vazquez and Marcus Bolden from Justine PETERSEN, as well as JP counselors and program participants. The purpose of the visit was to gain insights into the program’s effectiveness and its impact on local small businesses. Their interactions provided valuable feedback and fostered discussions on improving job quality and business sustainability in the community.
Forum Empowers Small Business and Microlending CDFIs
Pictured left: Ainura Barron Pictured right: Samantha O’Rourke
Earlier this month the Opportunity Finance Network held a Small Business Finance Forum. For the past decade, the forum has been a cornerstone for small business and microlending Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), offering timely content, inspiration, and invaluable connections. This year, the 2024 forum continued this tradition by featuring over 25 interactive breakout sessions across six distinct tracks. Attendees had ample opportunities for peer learning and networking, further enriched by a Small Business Partner Showcase that highlighted products and organizations dedicated to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of CDFI small business lenders.
Among the many attendees this year were Samantha O’Rourke and Ainura Barron, both of whom found the forum to be highly beneficial. Samantha returned from the event with significant insights, emphasizing the importance of helping our community make their homes more energy efficient. She stated, “We should be doing more to help our community to make their businesses and communities a more energy efficient domain. Not just for today, but for the years to come.”
The forum’s commitment to fostering growth, innovation, and collaboration among small business and microlending CDFIs remains unwavering, promising even greater achievements in the years ahead.
Microloan Microphone with Proud Property Management LLC!
There is a new episode! Join Tristan Brown and his guest Justin Peacock as they sit down together and microphone up on Microloan Microphone. Click here to check it out now!
Choice Microenterprise Microloan Program
Our Choice Neighborhood Microenterprise Microloan Program is here to empower small businesses and turn visions into reality! If you’re a budding entrepreneur looking for financial support, look no further. Let’s build a thriving community together! Apply now and let your dreams take flight.
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Justine Petersen Housing and Reinvestment Corporation · 1023 N Grand Blvd · Saint Louis, MO 63106-1641 · USA