Number 316 March 7, 2025 St. Louis
International Women’s Day
Honoring the Women Who Inspire Us
On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate the incredible women who make Justine PETERSEN the organization it is today. From our dedicated team members to the inspiring women we serve across Missouri and Illinois, we recognize your strength, resilience, and impact.
Your passion drives change, your vision builds communities, and your determination creates opportunities. Whether you’re a small business owner, a homeowner, or an advocate for financial empowerment, you are shaping a brighter future for all.
Today, and every day, we say thank you for your leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment.
#IWD2025 #InternationalWomensDay #WomenWhoLead #EmpowerWomen #JustinePETERSEN
A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats: Stifel Bank’s Commitment to Community Growth
At Justine PETERSEN, we believe that strong partnerships create lasting change. Our work in expanding financial access and fostering economic empowerment is made possible through the support of dedicated lenders who share our mission. Among them, Stifel Bank has distinguished itself as a leader in community investment, championing initiatives that uplift small businesses and drive sustainable growth.
As our Lender of the Year, Stifel Bank exemplifies the power of strategic investment in transforming communities. Their commitment extends beyond funding—through collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision, they have played a vital role in strengthening economic opportunities for underserved entrepreneurs.
This success story highlights the impact of our partnership, the measurable outcomes of Stifel’s investment, and its ongoing dedication to economic development. Learn more about how lenders like Stifel are shaping a brighter future for communities by visiting https://justinepetersen.org/2025/03/07/stifelbankloty/
From Furlough to Foundation: How Rae Johnson Built Rae of Sunshine Property Solutions
Rae Johnson’s journey into real estate was more than just selling homes; it was about changing lives. When she was furloughed from her job during the pandemic, it could have been seen as a setback. Instead, it became a turning point for her. Rae made the bold decision to pursue real estate full-time, motivated by a mission to support first-time homebuyers who often felt overlooked or taken advantage of by agents and companies.
“I saw things happening in the industry that just didn’t sit right with me,” Ms. Johnson recalls. “I wanted to do things differently, to truly help people step into homeownership with confidence.”
Photo Courtesy of Facebook
While building Rae of Sunshine Property Solutions, Ms. Johnson recognized the importance of securing the right financial support to bring her vision to life. Her search for assistance led her to Justine PETERSEN through the SBA, where she met Aida Richardson, a counselor who offered valuable guidance and access to funding.
“Aida and Justine PETERSEN made all the difference,” she says. “They believed in my vision and helped me secure the loan I needed to grow my business.”
Now, Rae of Sunshine Property Solutions is thriving, providing first-time homebuyers with the respect, patience, and education they deserve. Her best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? “Take your time, come to JP for your loan, and get to know great contractors around the city.”
Through dedication and the right support, Rae Johnson has turned a challenging moment into a shining opportunity—not just for herself, but for the many homeowners she continues to help every day.
To see more listenings from Rae of Sunshine Properties, go to Rae of Sunshine Reality
Join Us for Our Next Lunch and Learn with William Rowe and Scott Schroepfer
March 27, 2025 – Employee Benefit Solutions: Employee Retention for Business Growth
Stay tuned to see more events coming your way.
Employee of the Month: Viveca “Neecy” Bryant
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Sign up today! Contact Cameron Stuhl ASAP at cstuhl@justinepetersen.org
Justine PETERSEN is hosting our Empowering Futures KickOff Campaign
Join us at the North County Innovation Center on March 12 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM to celebrate Small Business Month and the kickoff of our Empowering Futures campaign! This special evening is an opportunity for organizations and companies to come together, share in our vision, and make a lasting impact on North County’s small business community.
Plus, every dollar given will be matched—up to $5 million! Let’s invest in the future of small businesses and create meaningful change, together. RSVP today and be part of this transformative movement!
Link to register at Eventbrite: Empowering Futures
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Justine Petersen Housing and Reinvestment Corporation · 1023 N Grand Blvd · Saint Louis, MO 63106-1641 · USA