Black History Month: Celebrating Black Health and Wellness

Happy Black History Month! As we continue to highlight some of our Black-owned clients, we’re shedding light on this year’s Black History Month theme: Black Health and Wellness. Many of our clients are using their business to leave a positive impact on the health of their communities. Join us this month as we celebrate their passion for promoting and contributing to the health of those around them. 

What is the Significance of Black History Month? 

Black History Month invites us to celebrate the achievements of Black Americans and learn about the impact of Black history on our country. Tahera Christy, SBDC client and owner of Amour Propre, tells us about the positive impact of celebrating Black History Month and uplifting Black-owned businesses. Tahera states: “it is important to see images of ourselves in powerful spaces.” Our support for Black-owned businesses gives Black entrepreneurs and leaders an even larger platform in our community. Use this month as a starting point to learn more about the trials and accomplishments of Black business owners and make a conscious effort to support Black-owned businesses all year long! 

Black American and Entrepreneur Contributions to Medicine

Black researchers, doctors, and entrepreneurs have and continue to contribute to the country’s medical field. SBDC client and Chiropractor, Dr. Tiffany Raith reminds us that “this month is an opportunity to celebrate Black community members who have discovered, paved the way for, or engineered medical advancements,” specifically mentioning the contributions of Harvey Lillard. Lillard was the first person to receive a chiropractic adjustment in 1895 and although not a member of the medical field, helped shape the growth of chiropractic medicine. Learning about the many ways that Black Americans have helped advance the health of our country is yet another way to begin celebrating the achievements of Black business owners and innovators in America. 

8 Ways to Show Support for Black-Owned Businesses this Month

We asked some of our clients to share several ways that people can support Black-owned businesses.  Here’s what they said:

1. Use your own business to network and partner with Black-owned businesses
2. Learn how legislation can impact small businesses in your community
3. Leave positive reviews for the businesses you visit
4. Make the conscious decision to purchase birthday and holiday gifts from small and Black-owned businesses
5. Follow and engage with your favorite businesses on social media 
6. When recommending a business to your family or friends, share the business’ message, not just their name
7. Stay informed and become involved with company-sponsored activities
8. Share business information with community organizations to help increase awareness of the business 

Black-Owned Small Businesses in Orange County and the Inland Empire 

• BlkButterfli Designz 
  • Self-care gift boxes and body butter 
  • West Covina, California
• Desert Hot Springs Chiropractic 
  • Chiropractic services – offering gentle full spine care and posture correction 
  • Desert Hot Springs, California
• Merit Calibration
  • Medical equipment calibration
  • Huntington Beach, California
• Embrace Beauty 2 
  • Beauty supply store with emphasis on ethnic hair-care products
  • Cathedral City, California 
• Amour Propre
  • Natural wellness and beauty products inspired by nature and fueled by positive energy
  • Mission Viejo, California
• Straight Dough Cookie Company 
  • Delicious homemade cookies made with love and delivered right to your door
• Peck’s Preserve 
  • High-quality and locally made, all-natural marmalade and jams 
• John Edgar Insurance Agency Inc. 
  • Insurance agency 
  • Chino Hills, California

Black-Owned Business Resources 

• OC Black Chamber of Commerce 
  • Members of the OC Black Chamber of Commerce receive access to training and networking events and have a voice in shaping policies helping Black-Owned small businesses succeed
• 8(a) Business Development Program
  • This program provides a level playing field for small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged people or entities by providing contracting opportunities to qualified businesses.
• Black Business Association
  • Black Business Association (BBA), based in Los Angeles, was founded with the mission to advocate and promote the development of African-American-owned businesses.
• SBA Funding Programs
  • The Small Business Administration offers several funding programs for small business owners; minority-owned businesses are encouraged to apply.
• Code 2040
  • Code2040 hosts events and training that are applicable to Black and Latinx founders. It also plays a role in connecting Black and Latinx college students with careers at established companies.
• Lendistry
  • Lendistry is a minority-led real estate lender, providing responsible financing to small business owners and their underserved communities.
• U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.
  • Through the creation of resources and initiatives, the U.S. Black Chambers Inc. supports a network of African American Chambers of Commerce and business organizations in their work of developing and growing Black enterprises.

You can find more minority-owned business resources here!