Number 367 March 13, 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.
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.
Client Success Story: JADE Laundry LLC
Photo courtesy of Facebook
With more than 20 years of experience in real estate investment and property management, the Hendrix family is bringing their passion for service and community development to Pagedale, Missouri. Their vision goes beyond operating a laundromat. They want to create a space that offers convenience, dignity, and quality for the people who live and work in the neighborhood.
JADE Laundry’s model combines traditional coin laundry service with modern features, including full-service drop-off options and coinless payment systems that allow customers to pay directly from their phones. Customers appreciate the convenience, the clean and welcoming environment, and the friendly service. In fact, JADE Laundry has earned top-rated reviews among laundromats in the St. Louis metropolitan area, a testament to the care the Hendrix family puts into every part of their business.
Why we love it:
For Deron and A’eesha, customer service is a personal commitment. With backgrounds in human resources and drug counseling, they approach every interaction with their team and customers with patience, empathy, and understanding. They aim to foster a welcoming environment where individuals feel respected and supported, particularly as they navigate new technologies and services.
This work is especially significant in a community like Pagedale, where many residents face economic challenges and have historically had unequal access to quality services. JADE Laundry is dedicated to setting a higher standard by providing clean, modern, and reliable services in this underserved area. This not only helps residents take pride in their community but also creates opportunities for other small business owners.
Justine PETERSEN is proud to support entrepreneurs like Deron and A’eesha Hendrix. Their commitment to service, community investment, and opportunity shows how small businesses can truly make a big difference.
Community Announcement: Supporting Youth Through Tha Bigg Homie Foundation
Lanett Good Eats owner Fallin Artis will be hosting a special fundraiser tomorrow from 3:00–6:00 PM at 4122 W. Florissant Ave, 63115 in support of the organization connected with her restaurant, the Tha Bigg Homie Foundation.
During this time, a portion of the restaurant’s profits will be donated to the foundation, which is dedicated to supporting children who have lost their parents due to tragic circumstances. This mission is deeply personal to Artis, who experienced that loss herself and has turned her story into a source of hope and support for others facing similar challenges.
Community members are encouraged to stop by, enjoy a meal, and help make a difference. Every purchase during the event helps provide support, encouragement, and resources to young people navigating life after loss.
We all can help ensure these kids know they are not alone.
STL Forward Through Ferguson’s Virtual Book Fair!
Our friend and client, EyeSeeMe, LLC, is in the final days of the STL Forward Through Ferguson book fair!
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.
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!
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Justine Petersen Housing and Reinvestment Corporation · 1023 N Grand Blvd · Saint Louis, MO 63106-1641 · USA