Number 394 September 18, 2026 St. Louis

Still Growing: Yonnick Jones and The Jones Academy

Some success stories are about meeting someone for the first time. Others are about having the privilege of watching someone grow.

For us at Justine PETERSEN, Yonnick Jones is the latter.

This is actually the second time I have had the opportunity to tell Yonnick’s story, and a lot has happened since the first one.

Yonnick has been a longtime friend and client of Justine PETERSEN. For years, Yonnick was part of The Williams Academy, an organization that he helped grow and develop. As the business grew, Yonnick came to Justine PETERSEN looking for more than access to capital. He needed a financial partner who understood his vision, believed in the potential of the business, and could help him continue building toward what came next.

That relationship did not end after one loan or one project. As Yonnick’s vision grew, our relationship grew with it.

And now, The Jones Academy is stepping into a chapter of its own.

Located at 2800 Caroline Street in St. Louis, The Jones Academy operates from a 10,000-square-foot facility designed to provide childcare and school-age development for families throughout the community. The Academy can serve 98 children per shift and offers extended hours from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, an important option for parents and caregivers whose workdays do not always fit neatly between nine and five.

But when you have known Yonnick as long as we have, the numbers only tell part of the story.

What stands out is the growth.

We remember Yonnick being a part of The Williams Academy. We remember the conversations, the plans, the challenges, and the ideas about what could come next. Today, we get to see those ideas taking shape.

And Yonnick is not doing it alone. Working alongside Carolyn Jones, MA, who brings more than 35 years of experience in early childhood education, Yonnick is combining his background in business and finance with a deep commitment to creating an environment where children can learn, grow, and feel supported.

There is still more ahead. Yonnick’s vision includes growing The Jones Academy beyond this location and reaching even more families throughout the St. Louis region.

Knowing Yonnick, I would not bet against that vision.

At Justine PETERSEN, we talk a lot about relationships because this work is rarely about a single loan or one moment in time. Sometimes the best part of what we do is getting to know someone, watching their business evolve, and being there when the next opportunity comes along.

Yonnick, it has been a pleasure watching this journey unfold. From The Williams Academy to this new chapter for The Jones Academy, we are proud to call you a longtime friend and client of Justine PETERSEN.

And somehow, I have a feeling this will not be the last time I get to tell your story.

Fair Housing Tip: Families Belong

Looking for a home with room for your family? Having children should not close doors.

In Missouri and Illinois, the federal Fair Housing Act generally protects families with children under 18 from being denied housing or given different terms simply because they have children. Certain exceptions apply, including qualifying senior housing.

This week’s tip: If a listing says “no children” or you are told a property is not available because you have kids, save the listing and any messages. Those records can help if you decide to report possible discrimination.

Learn more about fair housing protections for families.

Looking For a Small Business Loan?

If you live in St. Louis City County and are in need of capital to start or grow your new business, contact LaTrisha Gandy or Franchot Cunningham today!

LaTrisha Gandy Franchot Cunningham