In Carbondale, a quiet revolution is reshaping the community, led by resilient Black entrepreneurs. “Our journeys may be paved with challenges, but they remind us of our strength and the power of community,” Ryan Reed Sr., supervisor of GRO Community, said.
Business #1: GRO Community & Southern Illinois Supervisor – Dr. Ryan Reed Sr.
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Reed is the southern Illinois supervisor for GRO Community, an organization founded out of a commitment to addressing mental health needs within marginalized communities, particularly among Black and Brown populations. The organization was established by Aaron Mallory, who aimed to redefine the narrative surrounding mental health care. Reed’s personal experiences, including the loss of close family members and his struggles with depression, influenced his dedication to helping others. As he put it, “I wanted to answer the question, ‘Can I live?’ because I believe we all struggle with mental health.”
The path to establishing GRO Community was filled with challenges.
“It’s not easy navigating these waters, especially when the system isn’t designed to support us,” Reed said. Additionally, the emotional burden of caring for others during the COVID-19 pandemic added complexity to his role, he said.
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GRO Community has become a resource for Carbondale’s Black community, offering individualized counseling, group therapy and community support services, Reed said.
“We’re not just offering therapy; we’re about building connections,” Reed said. Their initiatives extend into the community, engaging clients in activities such as sports that promote wellness and social involvement. He emphasized the need for culturally competent care. “We have to empower individuals and show them the value of their own stories,” he said.
To manage the stress of running GRO Community and handling multiple responsibilities, Reed prioritizes a strong network of support from family, friends and trusted colleagues. “God comes first, family second, and then my work,” he said, adding that this is crucial for him to maintain balance. Reed also advocates for personal therapy.
“You can’t help anyone if you’re not helping yourself,” he said, underscoring the importance of self-care in mental health professions. He said he uses reflection and writing to navigate mental noise, believing that vulnerability is essential for healing.
“Being vulnerable is what connects us and allows us to truly help others,” he said, highlighting the transformative power of shared experiences in fostering hope and resilience.
Business #2: Little Resource Center – Chastity Mays and Debbie Olusoga
The Little Resource Center is a support hub for families in need. They provide emergency supplies like diapers, wipes and formula while also offering social work services.
Founded by Claire Hughes and Chastity Mays in 2023, the center has made a positive impact in Carbondale. They help families quickly by providing resources without needing extensive documentation.
Debbie Olusoga, an intern at the Little Resource Center, said, “We’re here to serve them. If you need diapers, wipes or formula, don’t hesitate to drop in.”
Chastity Mays is the assistant director of A Gift of Love Charity Inc. and a certified birth doula.
Mays and Olusoga have faced challenges in accessing resources for families. Mays’s journey started when families expressed urgent needs for basic supplies.
Mays said, “I always wanted to know how I can give back to the community.”
Olusoga, an intern from SIU, said she is passionate about public health.
“Public health is really community-based,” Olusoga said. “Interning here shows growth within the program and allows me to give back.” Their teamwork and open-door policy show a strong commitment to helping the community.
Both women said that they want to create a legacy of compassion and support. Mays aims to increase the number of black birth doulas and midwives, saying, “I have been building up the birth community because there are no black midwives or obstetricians.”
Business #3: Afro Empire Company – Sarah Harris
Sarah Harris, a student at SIU, founded Afro Empire Company during the pandemic to create an additional stream of income.
“I realized I had to create some sort of extra income for myself when a lot of businesses were closing down,” she said.
Inspired by her own experiences with sensitive skin, she identified a gap in the market for natural skincare products that are free from toxic ingredients. “I wanted to offer not only for myself but for other people the chance to access natural and organic safe skincare,” she said.
Afro Empire Company highlights aspects of Black culture and identity by focusing on natural ingredients and holistic wellness, which are deeply rooted in many Black communities. Harris said she believes in the importance of self-care.
“I wanted to supply the need for organic skincare products because I know how toxic many mainstream skincare products can be,” Harris said. Through her products, she reinforces a narrative of empowerment and care that resonates within her community.
Looking ahead, Harris said she hopes to expand her product line and reach more customers both on campus and beyond. She envisions collaborating with local events and markets to showcase her products and educate potential customers about the benefits of using organic skincare. “I want to connect with more people and show them that they have options when it comes to their skincare,” she said. She is also eager to explore potential partnerships with other local businesses to bolster her presence and impact.
Harris emphasized the importance of conducting thorough market research to understand the community’s need for your business. “Do your research, and see how sustainable your business is within the market,” she said.
She encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to brainstorm their ideas, create a business plan, and seek guidance from local business development centers that offer free resources.
“Those centers can be your greatest guide,” she said.
Harris encouraged others to pursue their passions wholeheartedly. “You can do anything you put your mind to,” she said. “Life is so short; don’t waste it doing something you don’t want to do. Go after your dreams and stay true to yourself.”
Staff photographer Jasmine Thompson can be reached at jasminethompson@dailyegyptian.com
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