Logo with Buy Camden 1st displayed with icons of a fork and knife, hard hat and wrench and open signCamden, NJ – On Wednesday, October 23, civic and business leaders from around the southern New Jersey region gathered to celebrate continued progress in the City of Camden  and highlight the many successful programs, projects and policies making a positive impact on local residents and businesses at Camden Community Partnership’s 2024 Annual Meeting.

Mayor Carstarphen spoke on the various initiatives that the City of Camden and its partners have put in motion to continue to contribute to Camden’s growth and progress, including the unveiling an innovative new programs Buy Camden 1st in partnership with LAEDA, a leading a leading nonprofit community economic development organization based in Camden that is focused on businesses and individuals who face barriers to starting, securing capital and operating small businesses.

Are you a small business that wants to sell goods or services to large corporations, healthcare institutions, and universities in Camden? Or, are you a company that wants to do business with Camden-based small and/or minority-owned businesses?

Either way, you should join in the City’s BuyCamden1st movement! The movement’s centerpiece is the BuyCamden1st.com website, home to a comprehensive, searchable Business Directory of the City’s small businesses, including those that have achieved Camden Verified status. The Business Directory is designed to make it easy for large corporations, healthcare institutions, universities, employees, fellow small businesspeople, and residents to find Camden-based businesses from which they can purchase goods and services.

Get listed in the Business Directory by completing the Business Inclusion Form at www.BuyCamden1st.com/get-listed/, complete and submit it. It’s as easy as that!

S T A Y T U N E D . . .

Businesses that have completed the Camden Verified process led by LAEDA can level up their listing. The Camden Verified seal sets apart those businesses that have undergone rigorous vetting, ensuring they are ready and able to meet the needs of corporations, institutions and universities in the City. Visit BuyCamden1st.com/camden-verified/  to get more information on Camden Verified and complete the application. LAEDA will help with the rest!

BuyCamden1st.com will also include helpful, up-to-date information and business-building resources that can help you grow your business, including access to the expertise and assistance of LAEDA to achieve Camden Verified status, purchasing and procurement opportunities, news updates, and more!

 

Camden, NJ – Thursday, October 17, 2024 – Family, friends and supports of LAEDA graduating class came together to gather at LAEDA’s Annual Graduation Ceremony where LAEDA’s President & CEO, Raymond Lamboy, presented LAEDA’s new and updated logo for 2024. During his remarks, he shared the meaning and evolution of the logo as the organization’s mission evolved through its 37 years of work Empowering People and Revitalizing the Community.

Displayed on the stage were the first three logos of LAEDA’s history (at left).   Mr. Lamboy discussed the logos displayed, “In 1987, the first logo was a hand-drawn image of a streetscape, two hands shaking and an arrow indicating upward mobility.  The streetscape indicates neighborhood revitalization and the hands shaking indicates community and coming together. All within the shield of determination and safety.

13 years later, in the year 2000, our logo continued to evolve with the revitalization of the City of Camden.  The State Aquarium opened in 1992 and the aquarium dome was included in a city skyline that replaced the streetscape. The clasped hands continued indicating collaboration and community.

In 2010, our logo continued to change with the times.  Color was added to indicate diversity.  The city scape now has a sun rising over it, indicating Camden’s continued rebirth.  The shaking hands are now of two different colors indicating the evolution of LAEDA’s client base and its collaboration across communities.

Since 2010, LAEDA has evolved.  We now operate in multiple cities here in South Jersey, we are undertaking new and innovative programs and continue to have at our center community and collaboration.  As we worked at designing our new logo, we wanted to create an image that evokes motion, that reflects our diversity and sets a limitless trajectory into the future.”

Mr. Lamboy, unveiled the new logo and described it’s meaning to the audience.  “The city scape has given way to central graphics emoting skyscrapers, shaking hands have transformed into bands of orange and blue sweeping around our recognizable shield conveying motion and the coming together of communities. The white open space in the middle, leaves open the endless possibilities of the future. The Latin American Economic Development Association, Inc. has given way to LAEDA est 1987. This is in recognition of the diversity of our community of entrepreneurs and the diversity of the communities we serve.  Thank you to the LAEDA team and our graphic artist, Jessica for your determination and patience in developing this forward facing image.”

As the months go by, LAEDA will be incorporating its new logo and look into all its materials, website and education materials.

Angel Ramos is the owner of Seek Pest Solutions LLC. Seek Pest Solutions takes pride in delivering personalized services tailored to the unique needs of each client. Whether it is routine pest prevention or addressing a current infestation. We had a chance to sit down with him to ask about his experience with entrepreneurship and LAEDA’s training program.

    (1.) LAEDA: Entrepreneurship is a very challenging path with many different possible directions. What made you decide to become an entrepreneur?

    I remember being 10 years old, visiting my grandparents in Puerto Rico during a summer vacation. They owned a small grocery store, and I was fascinated by the business. I spent a month waking up at 6 a.m. so I could be at their store when they opened at 6:30 a.m., staying there all day until closing around 5 p.m. That experience left a lasting impression on me, and ever since, I have had various business ideas. However, none of them truly ignited a passion in me—until I discovered pest control. That is when everything clicked, and I knew this was the business that I wanted to pursue.

    (2.) LAEDA: Why did you choose your industry?

    When I began working in pest control 10 years ago, I realized it all came naturally to me. I remember the manager who hired me telling me, after about three years with the company, “If you’re not a manager in two years, I’ll be disappointed.” He saw potential in me, and those words stuck with me. Five years later, plus four more, I had acquired all the knowledge and experience I needed. At that point, I asked myself the following question: ‘Do I want to manage someone else’s business, or do I want to fully realize my potential and build my own? Being self-motivated, I chose to start my own business, and being confident in my ability to succeed.’

    (3.) LAEDA: Tell me about your experience while attending EDTP. What have the major takeaways been from the program? Have you had any “Ah-ha!” moments? How did the program help you?

    I started planning the business in April 2023, knowing the direction I wanted to go, but unsure about the legal and operational steps. That is when I reached out to LAEDA, having heard about the program through two friends. From day one, I could tell the LAEDA team was fully invested in helping me succeed. The training, from the classes to the personal interviews, gave me the tools to set up my business correctly—covering everything from registering the company to managing finances and securing funding. I found myself implementing what I learned in our weekly business meetings. Without LAEDA, I am certain my business would not be as successful as it is today.

    (4.) LAEDA: Tell me about your journey on the road to business start-up. What have been some of the challenges, successes, failures, etc.?

    One of the biggest challenges has been marketing on a budget. Finding cost-effective ways to promote our services was tricky, but the word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients have been phenomenal and have fueled our growth.

    (5.) LAEDA: Could you tell me a little about where your business is today?

    Today, our business is flourishing. We are growing at a rate where we are planning to add a second vehicle by March 2025. Our company is growing by leaps and bounds, with a growth rate of more than double compared to newly founded pest control companies in the industry. This rapid expansion has positioned us to look ahead, and we are confident that with a second route in place, we will be ready to expand into Florida by 2026. We are excited about the future and committed to maintaining the high level of service that has fueled our success.

    (6.) LAEDA: Do you have any advice for future (or existing) entrepreneurs?

    A fundamental part of our growth as a company can be attributed to LAEDA. Thanks to their tools and resources, they helped us establish better organization and avoid the common mistakes that new entrepreneurs typically make. My advice for future or existing entrepreneurs would be to reach out to LAEDA, even if you think you have everything under control. The ongoing support they provide, long after the program, is invaluable. Beyond that, make sure you are ready to give it your all—there will be long days and nights, but the dedication will pay off with success.

    More about Seek Pest Solutions LLC:

    Seek Pest Solutions is a locally owned pest control company based in New Jersey, serving homes and businesses throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware. Established in March 2024, Seek Pest Solutions has quickly grown to become a trusted provider of effective pest management services. With over 25 years of combined industry experience, our expert technicians specialize in eliminating a wide range of pests, including rodents, insects, and wildlife. We also offer eco-friendly pest control options through our Green Pest service, prioritizing the safety of your home and the environment.

    Seek Pest Solutions takes pride in delivering personalized services tailored to the unique needs of each client. Whether it is routine pest prevention or addressing a current infestation, we utilize a thorough five-step process to ensure safe and lasting results. We are committed to providing peace of mind with solutions that not only resolve pest issues but also prevent future occurrences.

    As a business rooted in the community, Seek Pest Solutions is dedicated to excellent customer service and strives to build long-term relationships through trust and reliability. Our goal is to protect your home or business while offering affordable, high-quality pest control solutions.

    Contact Seek Pest Solutions LLC for more information or to schedule service:

    Website: www.seekpestsolutions.com

    Phone: (855) 733-5778

    Email: info@seekpestsolutions.com

    Instagram: Seek Pest Solutions

    Facebook: Seek Pest Solutions.

    About the Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP):

    The Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP) is a free, nine-week business skills training course offered in Camden, NJ in the Spring and Fall each year. Qualified entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and continued technical assistance.

    Four of the eight businesses from the Retail Launchpad Program have successfully begun displaying their products at Curate Noir locations in Camden and Moorestown Mall.
    Venus Berrios of The Eclectic House & Co. is showcasing her beautiful and environmentally conscious throw pillows, which have already garnered attention for their unique designs.
    Tyra Chandler of Mama’s in the Kitchen (MITK) has continued to wow shoppers with her tried-and-true packaged seasonings, offering customers a taste of home-cooked goodness.
    Tiffany Johnson of The Creative Blueprint has set up her fun and interactive Blueprint Box, inviting shoppers to master the art of crafting.
    Dawn Tossie of the Happy Vacay Vegan is delighting customers with her delicious vegan cookies, which have quickly become a LAEDA staff favorite.

    Each entrepreneur has embraced the opportunity to connect with customers through their displays, actively participating in local events and utilizing the event vending kits won through the program to further promote their brands. Their commitment to maintaining and promoting their products has led to increased visibility and sales.

    The expansion into the Moorestown Mall has further enhanced their reach, allowing them to tap into a broader customer base. As they continue to build their brands, these businesses exemplify the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit thriving within the community. Their journey reflects not only their hard work but also the positive impact of resourceful community support and effective business education in fostering local entrepreneurship.

    Please visit the website or stop by Curate Noir Camden located at 1327 Haddon Ave, Camden NJ 08104 or Curate Noir Moorestown located at the Moorestown Mall 400 NJ-38, Moorestown, NJ 08057 to shop these brands and support small businesses

    .

    Camden, NJ- In a special presentation during LAEDA’s Annual graduation, the winners of the fourth LAEDA-Citizens Bank Small Business Pitch Competition were announced. The competition, open to LAEDA alumni as well as recent graduates, gave prizes totaling $10,000 to individuals who successfully completed either the Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP) or Women’s Business Academy (WBA). Two (2) prizes were awarded to past EDTP/ WBA alumni and one (1) prize was awarded to a recent participant of the nine-week program.

    The competition consisted of two rounds where round one consisted of making a compelling case on how the prize money will help the business get to the next level. There were over twenty-five (25) applicants who jumped at the chance to advance to round two and get one step closer to receiving money for their business. In a grueling process, eleven (11) business owners were selected to move to round two. During round two, entrepreneurs not only received training on advanced business topics but also had the opportunity to pitch their business to representatives from Citizens Bank.

    The competition finalists represented a wide range of industries ranging from an adult event space & lounge to an array of vision boards. Finalists included Marcela Tapiero (Your Dreamwall), Ronda Mendez (Flowers by Menez & Jackal), Osiris Jamaal Jackson (Safe and Sound Stewards), Jimill Williams (The GreenRoom Adult Game Room & Lounge), Brittani Guy (BCA Digital), Marlene Roberts (MarkD Beauty and Wellness), Michelle Martinez (Totan Contracting), Tomeia Thorton (Munchies Amazing Sweets), Angel Ramos (Seek Pest Solutions), Hadassah Lee (Hair Linkx), T’Kemia Gibson-Daniels (Abkinah’s Islamic Boutique), and Kashana Waples (Juice Capitol)

    Due to great pitches and innovative ways to spend the prize money, these finalists made it very difficult for the judges to determine a winner in each category. Citizens judges Terry Goggans, Steven Gomez, and Dragana Jovanovic soon chose winners to be announced in a special presentation during the 2024 graduation ceremony. During the presentation, Judge Steven Gomez, Community Development Market Manager stated, “Congratulations to everyone… We just wanted to say that each one showed us how impactful your business is not just in the lives of your families but also in the communities you serve.” Gomez’s colleague and fellow judge Terry Goggans, Associate Relationship Manager added, “As a second year judge, I am always amazed when I hear the pitch presentations. They have consistently made it difficult for me to choose a winner; but, that is a good thing!”

    After much anticipation, the winners of the competition were announced:

    First place went to Marcela Tapiero of Your Dreamwall
    Second place went to Marlene Roberts of MarkD Beauty and Wellness
    Third place went to our most recent alumnus Angel Ramos of Seek Pest Solutions

    LAEDA would like to thank all of the participants in the competition and look forward to bringing more opportunities like these to our alumni in the future.

    Camden, NJ- Thursday, October 17, 2024- LAEDA celebrated their annual graduation ceremony for the Entrepreneurial Development Training Program and The Women’s Business Academy. The graduation was held at The Salvation Army Kroc Community Center in Camden, NJ. The graduating classes included the sessions from Fall 2023-Session 97, Winter 2024- Session 98 and Spring 2024-Session 99.

    As the room opened up to celebrate the accomplishments of the graduates in the room, Raymond L. Lamboy, President & CEO of LAEDA expressed how proud he is of all the graduates and mentioned their accomplishments and their class sessions and seasons, welcomed and thanked LAEDA, Inc. Professionals, Board Members, Faculty, Supporters (Corporate and Public partners) and Individual donors for giving graduates the needed opportunity and resources to meet their goals and help their business stand where they want it to; he handled over the mic to Jose Mercado, Board Chair Board Member of LAEDA who filled the room with valuable words amongst the following: “Tonight we have many graduates representing different businesses and I congratulate all of them on their successes and hardwork, tonight is special to highlight all the opportunities that are open to each of you, you have recognized the challenges of entrepreneurs and learned all about it and you have also learned the art of building relationships and connections and LAEDA is here for you with your continued success into the business ventures and your journey.

    Afterward each team member of the LAEDA family came up and filled the room with inspirational words and reflected on the past year and all the hard work the graduates and the instructors put into their work:

    -It is not easy to start a business let alone grow it and keep it sustainable

    -Our instructors influence extends far beyond the classroom, inspiring growth, innovation and excellence in every student

    -Our practical program helps to operate and grow those businesses

    -Class evaluations’ lets us know how we are doing, what the students are learning and how we can create more of a positive impact and learning environment on a continuum basis along with an opportunity to anonymously discuss the effectiveness of the content, the instructor’s engagement and any additional feedback they wish to share

    -We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every one of our instructor’s, both those present today and those who could not join us for their time, effort and generosity in sharing their knowledge with the class of 2024

    -The Buy Camden 1st Initiative (BC1st) is a joint effort of the City of Camden (the City) and the Latin American Economic Development Association, Inc. (LAEDA), to leverage the economic potential of anchor corporations, institutions and governmental procurement opportunities.

    These individuals have put 75 hours toward instruction and we all worked together as a team to work on goals and be ready for graduation

    Raymond L. Lamboy mentioned that we are celebrating in addition to all the graduates two milestones as well: We are currently in our 100 session of our nine week business training program and our new LAEDA logo was presented.

    The class representatives were selected based on their personality, professionalism, and public speaking abilities. The class representatives for 2024 were Salina Singleton of (Wonderful Me Media, LLC) for EDTP Fall 2023-Session 97, T’Kemia Gibson-Daniels of (Abkinah’s Islamic Boutique) for WBA Winter 2024- Session 98, and Nancy Ruiz of (C2C Education Group, LLC) for EDTP Spring 2024- Session 99. Below, are excerpts from their graduation speeches:

    -Salina Singleton: “LAEDA really cares and continues to provide opportunities to network, and give resources to grow in an ever changing world and our session still keeps in touch because LAEDA has taught us all about the importance of networking.”

    -T’Kemia Gibson-Daniels: “LAEDA helped me learn the business side of my business and opened up many doors and provided me with a wealth of knowledge that I can use today and carry it forward and in addition I am able to live an enriching life with my family and friends because of how I was able to transform my business through the help of LAEDA.”

    -Nancy Ruiz: “LAEDA provided me with an experience filled with growth, discovery and learning and I am grateful for the guidance and wisdom that LAEDA, the program and the instructors provided and now we are all better business professionals and leaders and we have the strength of a successful team that all of us gathered through our life long class connections.”

    -We recognized the instructor of the year from which students have expressed overwhelming appreciation, fondness, and admiration by giving her the honor of Instructor of the Year. This year’s award goes to Marketing Instructor, Ms. Trina Allen. Thank you for teaching our students so much valuable information that they can carry with them on their business journey.

    Next, the graduates were called to the stage to receive their certifications and take pictures with the LAEDA staff.

    Jamila Powell, Women’s Business Center Program Manager, welcomed the Citizen’s Bank Staff onto the stage and thanked them for partnering with LAEDA to provide our alumni with a special opportunity to win some money by pitching about their businesses.

    The night concluded with endless applause from the audience and pictures that captured these valuable moments.

    LAEDA prepares entrepreneurs for the entrepreneurial world and the doors within LAEDA help toward building upon your goals and climbing those steps toward success one-step at a time because each step is valuable and essential in building that successful business venture and setting up a sustainable business. The classes teach students the building blocks of opening up and operating a business.

    The Entrepreneurial Development Training Program and Women’s Business Center have graduated 1,188 students, creation of 654 businesses and created 1401 jobs in the city of Camden and throughout South Jersey. LAEDA has been empowering people and revitalizing the community to start and grow businesses in Camden, Burlington, Gloucester, Atlantic and Cumberland Counties in New Jersey. If you are ready to become an entrepreneur and or business owner, Call LAEDA at (856) 338-1177 or visit us on the Web at: www.LAEDA.com for more information and to help you get started and going on your entrepreneurial journey.

    Before the night ended all attendees enjoyed food from our alumna Aunt Berta’s Kitchen and the pictures of the evening were taken by another alumna, TeresArt Photography.

    The Federal Reserve’s 2024 Small Business Credit Survey is now open, and National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders is a partner on this effort. Owners and key financial decision makers of for-profit businesses, share your recent experiences about whether and how you use debt, what financial conditions you face, and more.

    Answer these questions contribute to data that directly inform the Fed, federal government agencies, services providers, policymakers, and others – a public good ultimately benefiting your business and others like yours. 

    Take the 12-minute survey now.

    https://fedreserveboard.gov1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2lCuiQwNXRRM7bM?orgid=NALCAB&mode=news

    Thank you for participating in the 2024 Small Business Credit Survey.   

    This voluntary survey is sponsored solely by the Federal Reserve Banks. The questions are best answered by an owner or key financial decision maker of your business and will take about 10 minutes.

     

    Survey responses will be aggregated for research and analysis. The Federal Reserve Banks will not disclose individual or identifiable survey responses except to trusted service providers to prepare data for analysis under strict confidentiality guidelines or if required by law or legal process.1 The Federal Reserve Banks may make anonymized data publicly available.

    The survey is open to businesses currently in operation, those recently closed, and those about to launch. All responses are confidential. 

    The survey closes November 1, 2024. Questions? Contact Hal Martin at hal.martin@clev.frb.org.                                                                 

    Bridgeton, NJ – On Wednesday, September 17th members of the LAEDA team celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with the Bridgeton Area Chamber of Commerce at the newly renovated popular local eatery and bar Inka Chicken. It was a joyous occasion of celebration and positivity, being the first event to break bread inside the newly renovated restaurant, where Minerva Alvarado of Hispanic Business Committee opened the meeting by speaking on the progress of Hispanic businesses and business owners in this past year. Next, the County Clerk Celeste Riley gave warm welcomes to the local residents and business owners and recounted her journey with the Hispanic constituents in her career. This year’s national theme of innovation, resilience, and unity defines the Hispanic experience, and Ms. Riley made sure the emphasize these values in the year to come. 

    Next up, the Chamber had a surprise for the entire audience – the creation and presentation of the inaugural Pioneer of Change Award. No one knew this award was even real, much less who the winner would be. However, as Ms. Alvarado read out the accomplishments of this person, it became crystal clear that LAEDA’s beloved community partner and friend Stephanie Gonzalez, of the Bridgeton UEZ, was the one being honored. Everyone was the moon for her and she rightly deserves this award. Congratulations Stephanie! LAEDA President and CEO Ray Lamboy was also honorably mentioned for the critical role LAEDA has played in connecting the local business community to resources and providing training and counseling. 

    Next up was the keynote speaker Jerry Velasquez, CEO of The Authority. A lifelong local, Mr. Velasquez has worked to ensure the rights and fair share of everyone and anyone, especially those of the local and the Hispanic communities. Nick Acevedo, a Bridgeton native who has been practicing law in Philadelphia for more than forty years, gave a commemorative address reflecting on his childhood and the ways this community has supported him in his career, and the ways he has given back to the community. 

    All in all, it was a celebration of the people in the room, and the ways they have supported the Hispanic communities in the area. The event truly demonstrated the national theme, as without innovation there can be no progress, and the men and women inside Inka Chicken have surely made progress. Without resilience there can be no growth, and every speaker and audience member have experienced learning through failure. And finally, without unity, there is simply no future. And celebrations of culture, like this one, are the perfect harbingers of harmony and unity.

     

    Note: Special thanks again to Minerva Alvarado, Tony Stanzione and the entire Chamber at Bridegton for the profound and positive work you guys do for the community. 

    Special thanks to Stephanie Gonzalez, for being a stable yet vibrant presence connecting LAEDA to the people of Bridgeton.

    On September 11, 2024, LAEDA proudly welcomed the Entrepreneurial Development Training Program’s 100th session in Camden, NJ. This milestone celebrated a new class of aspiring business owners embarking on a 9-week intensive course designed to guide their entrepreneurial journey.

    Jiao Xu, Program Manager, kicked off the evening by outlining the course expectations. Ray Lamboy, LAEDA’s President & CEO, followed with remarks on the organization’s mission to foster economic development and entrepreneurship through its targeted approach. He reminded attendees that regardless of their stage in business, LAEDA is here to assist, providing the tools and training to move their businesses forward.

    The session also featured guest speaker Salina Singleton, a graduate of Session 97 and owner of Wonderful Me Media. She shared her entrepreneurial experiences, emphasizing the importance of community and networking. Her words inspired the students to fully engage with the program and maximize the opportunities ahead.

    Throughout the evening, LAEDA staff introduced themselves, offering insights and encouragement. From Jamila Powell, Program Director, to Michelle Phillips, Program Support Coordinator, each team member expressed their commitment to supporting the participants’ growth.

    LAEDA’s Entrepreneurial Development Training Program provides 72+ hours of expert-led sessions, covering business planning, counseling, and practical skills. The program is offered free of charge, making it accessible to qualifying entrepreneurs. Participants leave with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in the competitive business landscape.

    For more information or to join future sessions, visit LAEDA’s website or contact their office at (856) 338-1177.

    Jeaneen V. Jenkins, MSW is the owner of Tree Lady Events, LLC. This business provides personalized and meaningful decorated trees for your events and provides event planning and programming services. We had a chance to sit down with her to ask about her experience with entrepreneurship and LAEDA’s training program.

    LAEDA: Entrepreneurship is a very challenging path to take with many different possible directions. What made you decide to become an entrepreneur?

    Employment is never predictable for anyone: no matter how hard you work, how dedicated/positive you are, or how much time you devote. There is always someone that finds something NOT to like about you due to his or her own insecurities and inferiorities. Although you never project that type of energy to make, anyone feel that way. They just seem to find you as you hide like a glow stick in a dark field.

    I recognized that I was different, and I must walk in my own tree-guided path… I know that I am a multi-talented woman who has more to offer any company than to watch my abilities go to waste. I imagine my life working for some companies that do not evolve, like packing a tree inside of a crate. You may fit in at the time, but as you grow, the crate does not as it merely stays the same and suffocates your growth. I needed to become an entrepreneur so that I could build “crates” that promote my growth.

    LAEDA: Why did you choose your industry?

    My first response is, because it is FUN! In addition, because my sister Shirond Armour says that I am really good at it…
    I get to be creative, innovative, and free to create the types of events of my choosing. I chose the event planning industry, because I love planning events that inspire people. I am sure that many people vaguely remember decorations and all of the people they interacted with while attending an event, but they will never forget a first experience. I celebrated my birthday during Tree Lady Events, LLC business launch of The Tree Party Exhibit. The life changing experiences that people spoke about during and still after the Tree Party event continues to encourage me. It changes lives and gives hope… Not just another birthday party, but also an opportunity for guests to learn about how LAEDA can help them with their business.

    LAEDA: Tell me about your experience while attending EDTP. What have the major takeaways been from the program? Have you had any “Ah-ha!” moments? How did the program help you?

    The training was awesome. I really enjoyed making profound bonds with all of the students that I met. “Ah- Ha,” I guess you can say that… As I shared information about the training, my best friend (James Clinton, VMD) decided that he wanted to attend the financial training course with me at LAEDA and he was granted the opportunity to sit right next to me in class. He began asking the trainer all sorts of questions that the entire class was pondering, but did not ask… Many people said I should bring him more often. We had lots of fun together and I learned a great deal of information about the type of company that I wanted to operate. The trainers actually wanted to teach you information that would help with your newly developed business. LAEDA’s trainers and staff took time to answer questions while paying close attention to the details of your dreams. They distinctively helped me to shape my thoughts clearly by providing me with information before I made a firm decision on getting started.

    LAEDA: Tell me about your journey on the road to business start-up. What have been some of the challenges, successes, failures, etc.?

    Challenges: The biggest challenge is the financial hardship that startup businesses face: launch events, Promotional, marketing, materials, getting hard working people to be sold on your vision without jealousy, staying positive during setbacks, and etc. I would love to have a storefront, with a nice size banquet hall attached so that I could continue to inspire the types of events that inspire growth. Networking with innovative people who are looking to advance.

    Failures: Honestly, vision is hard for people to see even when it is drawn out for them. People never truly understand the hardship leaders’ face. Sharing the entire vision may be too much for many people. Take time to learn: personality types, various traits, strengths, and weaknesses about your team. Trusting the wrong volunteers or employees because they appear to want to help can be a disaster. Pay close attention to how they interact with you and if they change when they are around others. Always have a back-up plan. Be sure to hire the people that are qualified not just, because they are your friend or family.

    Success: On June 12, 2024, I established Tree Lady Events, LLC with the help of LAEDA’s Jamila Powell, Program Director- LAEDA’s Women Business Center. On August 17, 2024 Tree Lady Events, LLC released The Tree Party Exhibit business launch event. September 16, 2024, Tree Lady Events, LLC launched The Holiday Tree Challenge. Tree Lady Events, LLC continues to rent trees. I continue to learn from mistakes and stand firm on my leadership role as well as the decisions that I make.

    LAEDA: Could you tell me a little about where your business is today?

    The trees continue to be rented out, but it is not consistent. I have launched a new vision for companies to decorate the trees for the upcoming holidays and have challenged my followers to send the letter to their jobs to gain exposure. In addition, I have several items for rent that includes the following: the Tree Ladies, pillars, backdrops, etc. from the photos. I hope that business will pick up with the rentals and that people will begin to talk.

    LAEDA: Do you have any advice for future (or existing)?

    Block out your fears… Get some help to guide you through the process of understanding your business. Find an accountant that you feel you can trust and ask questions. Encourage yourself, because you cannot expect for someone else to be your biggest fan if you are not your biggest fan first… Love what you do with passion and do not give up no matter what negative people, obligations, etc. that stand in your way. Always be firm on your decisions. Stay a couple steps ahead of the race, meaning just be prepared for whatever comes your way.

    More about Jeaneen V. Jenkins, MSW:

    Jeaneen V. Jenkins, MSW,42, born and raised in the city of (East) Camden, NJ. Jenkins received her high school diploma from Urban Promise Academy in 2000, She went on to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Family and Consumer Sciences at Virginia State University 2003, Master of Social Work degree from Kean University in 2006, and a recent graduate of the LAEDA Entrepreneur program in Event Planning. Over the years, Jenkins has worked and volunteered with several non-profit/for profit organizations in the field of Social Work. Jenkins transitioned into the field of Security in 2018, providing services to both celebrities and everyday civilians. She is currently an Armed administrator licensed to carry in the state of New Jersey. Jenkins has done work in bridging the gap between neighbors in communities, students at Virginia State University, base pay employees to upper management, etc. Jenkins has served as a public speaker, advisor, and an advocate for many years to many people. Jeaneen has been planning parties and events since she was 16 years old. Jeaneen established Tree Lady Events, LLC on June 12, 2024, with the help of LAEDA. In 20218 Jeaneen bought 20 manzanita trees for her mother’s birthday and now has 127. She also has several items that she rents out as posted throughout the photos on her Instagram. Tree Lady Events, LLC’s mascot is the tree lady.

    Contact Tree Lady Events, LLC for more information:

    Email: NJtreeladyJ@gmail.com
    Business Phone Number: (856) 580-3721
    Cell Phone Number: (856)-655-1586
    Facebook: Tree Lady Events, LLC

    About the Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP):

    The Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP) is a free, nine-week business skills training course offered in Camden, NJ in the Spring and Fall each year. Qualified entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and continued technical assistance. Please visit our website to learn more at www.laeda.com.