The African American Business Association (ABBA) of Will County hosted its second annual CEO Celebration and Awards Gala on June 19, to honor exceptional individuals who demonstrate courage and perseverance in business.
ABBA’s goal is to transform the county into Illinois’ most equitable, inclusive, and vibrant local economy, according to board CEO Christopher Parker. “We accomplish this by overcoming long-standing economic disparities, changing policies that block Black entrepreneurs from accessing opportunities and resources.”
Parker, who is also Vice-President and Director of Community Engagement & CRA at Wintrust Bank, called the event a success with more than 400 people attending the gala. Scheduled to coincide with Juneteenth, the federal holiday which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in the aftermath of the Civil War, Parker said it demonstrates just how far Black businesses have come.
U.S. Representative Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14), whose district includes Joliet, gave the welcome address. Joliet Mayor Terry D’Arcy gave the opening remarks. Carter Realty Group in Joliet was named Business of the Year. Richardson’s Bistro in downtown Joliet, and Robeks Fresh Juices and Smoothies in Plainfield, owned by Kenneth and Angela Townsend, were named New Businesses of the Year.
“It is a celebration of African American business owners,” said Parker. “There is a large need for African American businesses and our organization is coming together to support it.” Celebrating achievements with the goal of investing in African American businesses, the organization believes empowering people to be the best they can is the true path to success.
Often, Parker said, African American business owners are left out of major decisions that impact them. “This is our way of giving back and it is also a collaboration of everyone coming together.”
Other award recipients included Lou Ann Richardson, community leader, who was named recipient of the Michael Austin Clark Lifetime Achievement Award, and Dr. Natalie Coleman, CEO of After the Peanut Foundation Education Center and a Will County Board Member, who received the Juneteenth Dream Big Award. Joliet Junior College president and executive vice-president, Dr. Clyne Namuo and Dr. Yolanda Farmer, received the Corporate Partnership Award.
Dr. Valerie Daniels Carter delivered the keynote address, speaking to the audience about the challenges and rewards of owning a business, and sharing encouragement and advice to be persistent. Carter owns a quick-service restaurant business that includes Burger King and Pizza Hut. She currently is a board member of the Green Bay Packers and a minority owner of the Milwaukee Bucks NBA team. She has been recognized by Essence magazine as one of the 50 most inspiring African Americans in the United States.
During the evening, the ABBA installed its board for 2023-2024.The executive board is Christopher Parker, he will remain president; Carmen Carter, Carter Realty will return as first vice president; Veronica Robinson, Devine Design and Events, second V.P; Marcus Mars, of CAD Solutions and Construction, Treasurer; and Kiara Ford, Krown Lux Inc. assistant treasurer.
The remaining board of directors include Cornell Lurry of Midland State Bank, Charlene Boyd of BP Events, and Garland Mays of Will County Government.
New board directors installed are Scondreka Lee of SS All Things H.R.; Shykira Richards of Youth Guidance Chicago; Laurie Veasy of Numark Credit Union; Walter Dean of Popus Gourmet Popcorn; Howard Wright of State Farm Insurance; Garrett Beene of Exxon Mobil; Ernest Crim, an entrepreneur, author, and educator; Michelle Stiff of Will County Workforce; and Dr. Yolanda Farmer, Joliet Junior College.
For more information about ABBA, visit the website at aabaconnect.org, or find them on Facebook.
