Number 368 March 20, 2026 St. Louis

This March, we celebrate the achievements of women-owned businesses like Double Hearts Ranch

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.

Double Hearts Ranch: Building a Year-Round Community Resource in Rural Missouri

In Northeast Missouri, near Mark Twain Lake, Double Hearts Ranch is redefining what rural impact looks like. Founded by Tamitha R. Ague, a licensed social worker with over 30 years of executive leadership experience, the ranch was created to serve individuals, families, and communities through equine-assisted learning, agricultural education, and nature-based wellness.

Rooted in a mission to nurture the body, mind, and spirit, Double Hearts Ranch has become a trusted resource for youth organizations, schools, veterans, and community groups seeking meaningful, hands-on experiences that foster healing, leadership, and connection.

However, as a partially seasonal operation, the ranch faced a significant challenge. Missouri’s unpredictable weather often disrupted programming, limiting access for the very individuals who relied on these services.

To address this, Tamitha partnered with Justine PETERSEN to strengthen the ranch’s financial foundation and support strategic growth.

With this support, Double Hearts Ranch made significant improvements to ensure year-round accessibility, including a climate-controlled multi-purpose facility for uninterrupted programming and the expansion into glamping accommodations to diversify revenue and attract tourism. These investments transformed the ranch into a year-round operation, providing consistent access to Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) sessions, grief and loss workshops, youth leadership and agricultural education programs, and community events such as Boots & Blooms and Boots & Brushes. More importantly, the ranch continues to make a meaningful impact on the community by expanding access to rural mental health and trauma-informed care, empowering youth through experiential education, creating spaces for families and individuals to reconnect, and supporting local economic development through tourism and partnerships.

As Tamitha reflects, “What I am most proud of are the moments the ranch creates—when someone finds confidence, peace, or connection.”

Through thoughtful growth and a deep commitment to service, Double Hearts Ranch stands as a model for how rural businesses can strengthen both economic stability and community well-being.

Check out Double Hearts Ranch to learn more about what they have to offer!

Celebrating an Inspiring Cohort of Women Entrepreneurs at Better Family Life

There are moments in this work that leave a lasting impact, and for LaTrisha Gandy, this cohort is certainly one of them.

“I am incredibly proud to have been part of such a dynamic and inspiring group of women,” LaTrisha said. “This has been one of the most rewarding cohorts I’ve had the privilege to support, and their journeys are a powerful reminder of why this work matters.”

With her close guidance and the partnership with Better Family Life, LaTrisha assisted several entrepreneurs in securing business loans through Justine PETERSEN, thanks to the classes she taught. These achievements represent more than just funding; they are crucial steps toward long-term stability, growth, and the creation of generational wealth. LaTrisha said that she truly values being part of this process.

Congratulations to Ms. Paula Neely, Lotasha Lee, and Alana Spillier, who have each successfully closed on their loans with us. Their dedication, resilience, and vision have been nothing short of exceptional. We at Justine PETERSEN are incredibly thankful and proud of LaTrisha, who can share her knowledge with these wonderful women and small businesses.

“It has been an honor to walk alongside them as they take this important step forward in their business journeys,” LaTrisha stated.

We celebrate their success and look forward to seeing the continued impact they will make in their communities.

Upcoming Events

Next Friday, join us at the GREENCUBATOR for a Fish Fry!

There will be no pre-orders. Make sure you are early to get some good grub!

Spring Financial Resource Fair – April 4th

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

All sessions are free and open to the public.
View the full calendar and register here:

👉 ShowMeNetwork.org/calendar

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