This March, we celebrate the achievements of women-owned businesses such as Fire Doll Inc.
Number 366 March 06, 2026 St. Louis
Celebrating Women’s History Month: Honoring Inspiring Women Through the Ages
Women’s History Month is a time to honor and celebrate the achievements, resilience, and contributions of women throughout history. It is a moment for learning, reflection, and recognition that highlights the stories of trailblazers, leaders, innovators, artists, and everyday women who have helped shape our communities and our world. The month also creates space to acknowledge the challenges women have faced while celebrating the progress made toward greater equality, opportunity, and empowerment. At its heart, Women’s History Month is about storytelling and making sure women’s voices, experiences, and accomplishments are seen, valued, and remembered.
This celebration also includes International Women’s Day, which takes place this year on Sunday, March 8, 2026. International Women’s Day recognizes the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women around the world. It is both a celebration of progress and a reminder that the work to create a more equitable future for women everywhere continues.
The movements that have advanced women’s rights, from the historic fight for the right to vote to modern efforts supporting equal pay, leadership opportunities, and financial empowerment, have helped shape this legacy. These efforts continue to inspire conversation, advocacy, and action that move society toward greater opportunity and inclusion. Along the way, influential women across generations have left a powerful mark on history. Leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, artists, and community advocates continue to inspire future generations to pursue equity, leadership, and lasting change.
From Five Melters to a Movement: Celebrating Fire Doll Inc.
Photo courtesy of wcia.com
Pictured above: Kayla Brown, owner of Fire Doll Inc. Picture courtesy of enjoyillinois.com
What began as a passionate, artisanal pursuit has evolved into something much bigger. By sourcing soy wax from Central Illinois and unique fragrances from North Carolina, the founder of Fire Doll didn’t just create a candle company; she built a bridge between local quality and national reach.
It’s hard to believe that it all started with just three employees and five large wax melters. Today, that small operation has transformed into a vibrant hub where candle-making is an immersive experience. With community workshops and the addition of a full bar, the studio has become a space where creativity is poured as often as the wax.
Why we love it:
At the heart of Fire Doll’s success is a commitment to a personal touch. If you aren’t quite sure what you’re looking for, Kayla is there to personally guide you toward the perfect choice. This dedication to building authentic relationships has fueled our presence in boutiques nationwide and earned the loyalty of many repeat customers.
Fire Doll Inc. is a tribute to what’s possible when women lead with vision and purpose. This month, we celebrate them as a shining example for every woman determined to make her mark.
To check out the shop, concerts, and events, or learn about their private events, go to firedollstudio.com
STL Forward Through Ferguson’s Virtual Book Fair!
We’re excited to share that our friend and client, EyeSeeMe, LLC’s book fair is in full swing!
This book fair is more than just an opportunity to purchase books. It is a celebration of stories that reflect, affirm, and uplift Black children. From joyful picture books to inspiring stories by African American authors, each title helps ensure that every child can see themselves represented on the page.
Representation matters. When children see characters who look like them, dream like them, and overcome challenges like them, it builds confidence, pride, and possibility.
We invite you to support this meaningful initiative and discover some of the best African American children’s books for the young readers in your life.
📖 Follow the link to explore the collection and join the book fair.
Let’s continue to invest in stories that shape strong, confident futures.
Justine PETERSEN Grateful for $10,000 Gift from One Family Church
Justine PETERSEN is deeply grateful to One Family Church for their generous $10,000 donation in support of our mission to help individuals and families build assets and achieve financial stability across St. Louis. Support like this helps us continue providing financial coaching, credit-building programs, and small business lending that empower people to build brighter futures for themselves and their families.
“We are incredibly thankful for the support of One Family Church,” said Sheri Flanigan-Vazquez, Chief Operating Officer of Justine PETERSEN. “Their commitment to uplifting our community reflects the power of people coming together with a shared purpose to create real and lasting change.”
Photo of Pastor Brent Roam of thefamstl.com, courtesy of www.thefamstl.com
Pastor Brent Roam shared why the congregation felt inspired to support the organization’s work. “One Family Church is proud to support the transformational work Justine PETERSEN is leading across St. Louis. We see a future where justice prevails, opportunity abounds, and the light of hope drives out the darkness of despair in our city. Justine PETERSEN stands at the forefront of a growing movement, bringing healing and restoration to thousands of men and women by building assets and changing lives. We are honored to stand with them in this work and encourage others to join us in supporting their mission.”
This generous gift will help expand opportunities for individuals and families seeking financial empowerment and economic mobility, particularly in the areas of small business support and first-time homebuyer counseling. Justine PETERSEN is proud to partner with organizations like One Family Church, which shares a vision for a stronger and more hopeful St. Louis.
Upcoming Events
Grow Your Business This Year!
Join the free Lunch-and-Learn Series brought to you by efactory and Missouri State University
We’re excited to share that the Show-Me Network, in partnership with Justine PETERSEN, is launching a yearlong series of FREE virtual Lunch-and-Learns for entrepreneurs and small business owners across Missouri.
These no-cost sessions will provide practical guidance on funding, credit, financial management, and business growth—designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are and help them move forward with confidence.
⏰ All sessions are held online from Noon–1 p.m. (CT)
💻 Open to all Missouri entrepreneurs at no cost
Register Today!
All sessions are free and open to the public.
View the full calendar and register here:
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical tools, expert insight, and connections that support your business growth in 2026.
Lunch and Learn with Desiree Friedman
Scan the QR Code or click HERE to register today!
JP Family Corner
You know, success in any organization comes down to people who show up every day ready to work, ready to compete, and ready to support the team. Today, we’re recognizing someone who lives that mindset.
Solomon Chandler is the kind of teammate every organization needs. He shows up prepared, he handles his responsibilities, and he understands that the strength of the team is in how we work together. He brings consistency, professionalism, and a team-first attitude to everything he does.
Now we say it all the time — the standard is the standard. And Solomon shows that standard in the way he approaches his work and supports the people around him.
He may not always be the loudest voice in the room, but he’s someone you can count on, and reliability wins championships in any field.
So today, we recognize Solomon Chandler as our Employee of the Month. When you stay consistent, do the work, and show up for the team, good things happen.
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Justine Petersen Housing and Reinvestment Corporation · 1023 N Grand Blvd · Saint Louis, MO 63106-1641 · USA