Number 337 August 1st, 2025 St. Louis
August is Black Business Month: Let’s Celebrate, Support, and Uplift
August marks National Black Business Month, a time dedicated to honoring the legacy, resilience, and impact of Black-owned businesses across the country. Black entrepreneurship has played a pivotal role in shaping the American economy since the late 19th century, and its influence remains significant today.
The movement began with leaders such as Booker T. Washington, who founded the National Negro Business League in 1900 to promote Black economic advancement. From there, thriving communities such as Tulsa’s Black Wall Street emerged as powerful symbols of Black prosperity, pride, and innovation, even in the face of adversity.
In 2004, National Black Business Month was formally established to recognize the achievements of Black entrepreneurs and to encourage investment in Black-owned businesses. It serves as a reminder of the importance of economic equity and the power of community-driven growth.
This month, we invite you to shop locally, support Black-owned businesses, and celebrate the contributions of Black entrepreneurs, past, present, and future. Whether it’s dining at a local Black-owned restaurant, hiring a Black contractor, or sharing a business on social media, your support makes a difference.
Join us, your neighbors, and communities across the nation in honoring Black Business Month. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive economy, one that reflects the full diversity and talent of our country.
Success Story: Vails Brothers Fish, Chicken, and Shrimp
Photo courtesy of The Delmar Loop
Jessie Mae Vails was more than a mother; she was a Renaissance woman. A firm believer in preparing her children for the real world, she instilled in her three daughters and two sons the life skills needed to thrive. Chief among them? The art of cooking is done right. Her motto: “Everything HOT at the SAME TIME!” That principle became the cornerstone of a family tradition, and eventually, a thriving business.
Eric Vails of Vails Brothers Fish, Chicken, and Shrimp has used this as a strong foundation, offering not only delicious meals but also the warmth, love, and discipline passed down from Jessie Mae herself. With sizzling fish, golden-fried chicken, crispy shrimp, and homemade sauces that customers adore, Vails Brothers has become a beloved community favorite, renowned for its unmatched flavor and exceptional customer service.
What sets them apart? It’s not just the food, it’s the experience. Customers are greeted like family, and every order is prepared with precision and care. “Fresh, fast, and always hot” isn’t just a slogan; it’s a promise. And it’s one that’s kept the business going strong, even through tough times. When the pandemic shuttered restaurants, Vails Brothers rolled on, literally, with their food truck, continuing to serve loyal customers while winning new ones curbside.
In 2015, the company’s growth journey took a significant leap when it partnered with Justine PETERSEN and secured an SBA loan for working capital. This funding allowed the business to expand its operations, serve more customers, and invest in essential tools for success. The support not only stabilized the business but also promoted further growth.
Today, they continue to serve the same great food in the Loop, The Grove, at Chillax in St. Peters, MO, and at their North County location. This isn’t just about food, it’s about family, faith, and legacy. It’s about honoring the spirit of a woman who believed in hard work, good cooking, and preparing her children to face the world, and feed it.
From the kitchen to the community, Vails Brothers Fish, Chicken, and Shrimp is more than a business. It’s a movement, served hot.
Client Spotlight: Marnée’s Story – Partnership, Purpose & Progress
When passion meets purpose, incredible things happen, and for Marnée, the journey to expand the MGC Central West End DMV License Office was no exception.
From day one, Marnée has been a dedicated partner of Justine PETERSEN, building a foundation for business success rooted in community impact. But this latest chapter wouldn’t be complete without a huge shout-out to two powerhouse supporters behind the scenes: Aida Richardson and Travis Williams.
“This progress wouldn’t be possible without the insightful leadership of Aida Richardson,” says Marnée. “Her support and guidance continue to make a real difference in my journey.”
And when it came to the lending process, one name stood out: Travis Williams.
Travis brought more than just expertise; he brought genuine care, unwavering support, and a commitment to seeing Marnée succeed. Whether walking her through funding steps or diving deep into her business goals, Travis made the experience seamless and empowering.
“Travis took time to learn about me, my business, and where I want to go,” Marnée shares. “He never rushed me, he stayed in constant communication, and he made sure I had the insights to maximize the funding. It’s rare to find someone so knowledgeable, responsive, and people-centered.”
Thanks to this partnership, the MGC Central West End DMV License Office is on track for greater impact, and it’s all possible because of the care and dedication from the team at Justine Petersen.
“It is my pleasure to recommend Travis for special recognition,” Marnée concludes. “He’s made a tremendous difference, not just for me, but for countless business owners like me who are building something meaningful.”
Thank you, Marnée, for sharing your story. And thank you again to Aida and Travis, your leadership is shaping brighter futures every day.
Upcoming Events
The Ignite Illinois Webinar Series is set to begin on August 6th, 2025!
To register, go to bit.ly/46n1w8i. All are welcome!
Employee of the Month: BRUCE GREENE!!!!!!!
We’re Taking a Quick Break! Looking forward to seeing you soon!
Did you know, in countries like Italy, France, Spain, and Portugal, it is common for businesses to slow down or pause operations during August?
Starting today, August 1st, we are going on a short vacation! We will pause the intake of new loan applications until September 2nd. However, our credit-building sessions, counseling, and Lunch and Learn events will continue as scheduled during this time.
Thank you so much for being the best part of Justine PETERSEN!
Making Your Way to a Wonderful Financial Future!
The My Credit Compass Program is a 12-month membership designed to enhance credit awareness for entrepreneurs and help manage their FICO® Score. Through your Experian® CreditCenterTM subscription, you’ll access a dashboard to view your FICO® Score anytime without impacting it.
How Credit Compass and Save2Build work together to improve your credit and help you achieve financial freedom.
While My Credit Compass provides the knowledge and tools to monitor and manage your credit, Save2Build offers a practical way to improve your credit score. Through Justine PETERSEN’s CDFI, Great Rivers Community Capital, eligible clients receive a $300 credit builder loan placed into a locked savings account. Clients repay the loan over 12 months (around $26/month), with payments reported to two credit bureaus. This repayment activity directly supports the credit monitoring and management strategies taught in My Credit Compass.
After a year, clients have not only improved their credit score but also saved $300, which can be used for financial goals like opening a secured credit card, turning credit knowledge into real financial growth.
Benefits:
- Easy-to-use technology with personal support
- Confidence from financial coaching
- Plus, much more!
We’re excited to help you on your savings journey!
Start building your credit today with My Credit Compass and Save2Build!
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Justine Petersen Housing and Reinvestment Corporation · 1023 N Grand Blvd · Saint Louis, MO 63106-1641 · USA