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8 Steps for paying down debt

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By CATRINA TATE

Indianapolis Recorder’s Smart Money Week continues with Everwise Credit Union sharing strategies for paying down debt.

Paying down debt is important to your financial wellness because it helps you make the most of your money. The less money you pay in interest fees, the more money you’ll have to put towards your goals. Paying down debt is possible if you strategize!

Here are 8 steps to pay down your debt:

(Photo provided/Everwise)
  1. Create a budget to know your income, expenses, and cash flow. Look back at Tuesday’s post from our daily financial wellness topics for help.
  2. Organize your debt. Determine how much debt you have. List every credit card with an outstanding balance and note the amount owed to each. Next, list the interest rate of each card. Do this for any other fixed installment loan debt you have as well. Then add up the amounts owed on each account to reach your total outstanding debt amount.
  3. Trim nonessential expenses and/or generate more income to have as much cash flow as you can. By trimming spending in one budget category and channeling that money toward paying down debt, you can maximize your debt payments. You can also find ways to make extra cash to cover your payments.
  4. Choose your debt-crushing method. Consider the Snowball or Avalanche method: The Snowball Method commits as much income as you can to your lowest debt while making only minimum payments on the rest. OR The Avalanche Method pays off debt with the highest interest rate first and moving on to the next-highest rate until all debts are paid off, while maintaining minimum payments on the rest of your debt.
  5. Negotiate with your creditors. Many credit card companies are willing to lower your interest rate once you prove you are serious about paying down debt. Contact each credit card company to discuss your options. At the very least, see if you can get the company to lower your rate.
  6. Consider a debt consolidation loan or credit card balance transfer. For some, the most challenging aspect of paying down debt is managing multiple payments across several credit card accounts. When you consolidate debts into one low-interest loan, it becomes much easier to manage monthly payments. Plus, the savings on interest payments can be significant, particularly if the new loan has a low interest rate.
  7. Avoid debt settlement services. Debt settlement services offer to lower your interest rates and boost your credit score in a short amount of time – for a fee.  Although many of these companies could be fronts for scammers and should be avoided, there are legitimate debt settlement companies, so do your research well if you are thinking of using one.
  8. Start building your emergency savings and stop taking on new debt. Emergency savings can help you from taking on new debt due to unexpected expenses.

    Paying off debt takes time and willpower, but living debt-free is key to financial wellness.

    Catrina Tate is vice president of Retail at Everwise Credit Union with more than 21 years of banking experience. Visit everwisecu.com.

For more news from the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

Five steps for improving your credit score

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By CATRINA TATE

Indianapolis Recorder’s Money Smart Week continues with Everwise Credit Union sharing strategies for improving your credit score.

Your credit score is a crucial part of your financial health. The three little numbers measure how likely you are to repay borrowed money.

The most commonly used credit score model, FICO, has a range of 300 to 850. An excellent credit score (800+) can open the door to large loans with better interest rates, employment opportunities, and more. On the flip side, a poor credit score (less than 580) can be a strong impediment toward building wealth, funding large purchases and finding gainful employment.

Here are 5 ways to boost your credit score.

  • Pay bills on time. Carrying an outstanding balance, and/or owing lots of interest, shows that you are not timely with your bills. Setting up automatic monthly payments helps avoid late payments.
  • Keep credit utilization below 30%. Credit utilization ratio is the amount of available credit you have and use. Keep your utilization under 30%. Consider accepting offers for increased credit – just don’t rack up huge bills by having all that additional credit.

  • Maximize credit card payments. Find ways you can trim expenses or bring in extra cash to maximize payments toward your debt. You can pay down debt using one of the debt-crushing methods. Showing the credit bureaus that you’re on track to pay off debt can improve your score.

  • Keep credit cards open and active. Building and preserving a healthy credit score requires owning a card or two and keeping them active.

To keep your cards active without an open balance, pay one fixed monthly bill, such as a subscription or membership, with your credit card by setting up automatic monthly payments for the bill and the credit card. This way, your cards will be open and active, and you’ll never have a late payment.

Be sure not to open multiple new credit cards all at once. New accounts or new credit lowers the average age of your existing accounts, and opening multiple accounts in a short period of time is considered “a risk” by reporting agencies.

  • Review credit reports. Make sure your information is accurate, and no accounts have been opened in your name without your knowledge. Get a free copy of your credit report from each credit bureau once a year at annualcreditreport.com.

    Remember that lenders, insurers, employers, and others can obtain your credit report to determine whether you are a good candidate. So, it is key to your financial wellness.

    Managing your credit card and debt responsibly goes a long way toward positively impacting your overall finances. Learn more strategies with a Credit Basics resource and our free online learning module about Credit Scores and Reports to find out more about how credit is measured and the impact it can have on your financial goals. Catrina Tate is vice president of Retail at Everwise Credit Union with more than 21 years of banking experience. Visit everwisecu.com


    For more news courtesy of the Indianapolis Recorder, visit our homepage.

    Minority Business Highlight: I AM the VIBE

    I AM the VIBE is a Black and woman-owned candle shop, but it is also a little bit more than that.

    Indy-based educator and new mom Jessica Brown received her bachelor’s in early childhood education and is an advocate for early development. While in the classroom, Brown realized she needed to put more energy into herself and her own health to be able to show up for her children.

    “If you’ve ever spent time in an early childhood setting, you know how important it is to always model good habits,” Brown said in a statement on her website. “As I wore the stress on my shoulders, I began to notice that every trigger, every tantrum came from the environment that I created. I realized that I Am Energy.”

    Brown started I AM the VIBE in 2019 as a way to address her own “self-health” and blend her two favorite things: fragrance oils and music. After some extensive research, candle making became Brown’s healing hobby.

    The candles, which come in 8, 10 and 12 ounces and range in earthy, fruity, floral and specialty fragrances, are each a hand-poured blend of wax and oils. Each candle also comes with a custom R&B playlist for a multisensory experience, as Brown believes rhythm and blues are healing for the mind, body and soul.

    In addition to candles, I AM the VIBE also features a line of room sprays and an outdoor citronella linen spray. 

    I AM the VIBE currently operates as an online shop. Brown can be found at festivals and vending expos around Indianapolis, such as Melanin in May, Grapevine and Indy Black Wall-Street. For more information or to browse the collection, visit iamthevibellc.com. To get in contact, email Iamthevibellc@outlook.com or call (317) 400-7916. 

    This minority business highlight was composed by CHLOE McGOWAN at the Indianapolis Recorder, who can be reached at 317-762-7848 or via email at chloegm@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here!

    Highlighting the work of the Lumina Foundation

    The Lumina Foundation is a private, nonprofit organization that works to make educational opportunities available to all. Their mission is to increase the number of Americans who have the education they need to succeed in a global economy.

    The Lumina Foundation focuses on making higher education accessible and affordable. They support programs that help students prepare for college, make informed decisions about their education, and graduate with a degree. They also work to address racial inequality in education, ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed.

    Here are some of the key initiatives of the Lumina Foundation:

    • The Getting Started Initiative: This initiative helps students from low-income families prepare for and succeed in college.
    • The Talent Transfer Initiative: This initiative helps community college students transfer to four-year institutions and complete their degrees.
    • The Racial Equity in Higher Education Initiative: This initiative works to address racial inequality in education and ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed.

    The Lumina Foundation is a valuable resource for students, educators, and policymakers who are working to improve access to and affordability of higher education.

    The Lumina Foundation is a member of the Indy Black Chamber of Commerce minority-owned business directory.

    To learn more about their initiatives and impact, please visit their website at https://www.luminafoundation.org/.


    For more minority business highlights courtesy of the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, visit our homepage. If you want your business featured in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

    How to prepare your kids for financial success

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    By CATRINA TATE

    Indianapolis Recorder’s Money Smart Week continues with Everwise Credit Union sharing steps for preparing your kids for financial success.

    Teaching your kids about money and preparing them for the future financial responsibilities they will have someday is a key part of your family’s financial wellness.

    Here are 6 steps to prepare your kids for financial success:

    Talk to your children about money. Have a conversation with your children about finances. It is an important milestone that will create excitement about gaining “big kid” responsibilities. After your discussion, schedule a time when you and your child can visit a bank or credit union.

    Open a savings account. There are specific savings programs available geared towards kids. For example, Everwise Credit Union offers a Kids Club that’s designed for children up to age 12. Parents or guardians can open a membership with the child as the primary owner. Kids get a piggy bank upon opening an account and can learn and grow with free online financial education tools, designed especially for parents and kids to use together.

    Teens can open a Student Rewards Checking account to manage their money and earn cash rewards. The account features cutting-edge technology for 24/7 banking, everyday buying power with a cash-back debit card, and cash rewards for teens who learn more about money management and then take a few simple steps.

    More keys to financial success: Buying a car

    Via Getty Images. Photo used as a part of the 2024 Money Smart Week story 'How to prepare your kids for financial success' by Catrina Tate.
    (Photo/Getty Images)

    Visit frequently. It’s recommended to visit a branch often to foster good habits for kids who want to learn about saving money. A perfect time to deposit funds into a saving account would be when they receive money for chores or reaching milestones like birthdays and graduations.

    Agree on a savings and spending amount. Kids should learn about the value of saving for the future while also spending responsibly. Make agreements with your kids when depositing money. If they don’t want to deposit all of it, go half and half. Let them spend some and save some. Emphasize the receipts when they make a deposit to help illustrate that their balance is growing. In addition, help them set realistic and achievable savings goals.

    Learn about banking language. Savings accounts can help teach important life lessons, like the difference between a “want” and a “need.” They can also help educate children about how to save for a “later” reward. Plus, opening an account for your child can also teach them about necessary banking language, such as savings, deposit, balance, withdrawal, and interest.

    Monitor the account together until your child is 18 or older. For kids under 18, a parent is required to help open the account for them, so usually they choose the login information and password together so they can both monitor the account. When the child turns 18, the parents can choose to remove themselves from the account.


    Catrina Tate is vice president of Retail at Everwise Credit Union with more than 21 years of banking experience. Visit everwisecu.comFor more news from the Indiana Minority Business Magazine during Money Smart Week, visit our homepage.

    Another $500 million in READI grants announced for communities across Indiana

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    INDIANA CAPITAL CHRONICLE

    Fifteen regions across Indiana are set to receive a share of $500 million in new economic development grants meant to boost the state’s quality of life, place and opportunity, Gov. Eric Holcomb and other state leaders announced Thursday.

    The dollars are part of Indiana’s second Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative, better known as READI 2.0 — a grant program that has been a signature policy of Holcomb’s administration.

    All 92 counties will be impacted by projects funded through the program. Among those are plans to increase available housing, develop new work-based learning partnerships, add support for small businesses and expand child care options. Also anticipated are new parks, trails and other attractions that improve day-to-day life within dozens of Hoosier communities and make the state a magnet for talented workers and their families.

    “Indiana is leading the way in future-focused investments in our economy and in our communities, ensuring that all Hoosiers of today and tomorrow have the opportunity to prosper,” Holcomb said. “READI has already resulted in more than $12.6 billion invested in quality of place and quality of life assets. The second iteration of the initiative – READI 2.0 – along with additional committed investments from the Lilly Endowment, will bring billions more to Hoosier neighborhoods, preparing communities, industry and talent for the next generation and beyond.”

    The Indiana Economic Development Corp. (IEDC) board approved the investment commitments and regional allocations during a board meeting on Thursday.

    The investment comes alongside a separate $250 million in grant funding to be awarded by the Lilly Endowment Inc.

    The announcement grows the state’s overall READI commitment to $1 billion. Holcomb — who is term-limited — launched the program in 2021.

    Before that, a similar Regional Cities Initiative, funneled $126 million into regional development.

    The state’s money is backed up by $12.2 billion in public, private and nonprofit funds. The administration said every state dollar averaged a $26 match during READI’s first round.

    READI 2.0’s 15 regions started developing their funding proposals last summer. They had until February to submit proposals. As part of the funding deliberations, the IEDC, the quasi-public agency administering the program, held numerous forums and visited the regions to discuss their previous investments and future plans.

    The maximum award per region was $75 million, an increase from the previous cap of $50 million. None of the regional awards were valued over $45 million, however. 

    Holcomb said that’s because all 15 regions cleared a “very high bar.”

    “We wanted to make sure that we followed through and looked at disadvantaged and rural areas … which we did, the allocation reflects that, but also that we were able to do projects that were all over the state of Indiana. So, it brings down that $75 million,” the governor said. “As you see the sheer number of quality projects, I would have loved to have had a billion dollars. … But I think we very methodically arrived at — what was not just fair — but what was effective in spurring economic and population growth and attracting talent.”

    An external review committee evaluated the applications based on a variety of factors, according to the governor’s office. Criteria included economic development potential, alignment with the state’s priorities, — like population growth, per capita income growth, growth in employment opportunities, educational attainment, housing units developed, childcare capacity and innovation activities — as well as the level of focus on rural communities and the degree of regional collaboration.

    “Almost every conversation I have with a company, whether an established Hoosier business or a new company coming to the state, begins and ends with workforce,” said Indiana Secretary of Commerce David Rosenberg. “READI is an essential component for the state retaining and growing our population and workforce talent.”

    “Companies around the world are taking notice of this program,” he continued, “and the General Assembly’s investment in these areas has unquestionably been a business retention and attraction tool.”

    In 2023, state lawmakers earmarked $500 million to the IEDC for the latest round of READI grants, matching the amount allocated in the state budget two years prior. The first round used federal dollars but the newest grants are state dollars.

    It’s still to be determined whether additional state dollars for READI or similar programming will be approved by legislators in the 2025 budget session, or by Indiana’s next governor.

    How to achieve a good credit score

    Sponsored by JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    Credit impacts some of the most important parts of your life. Developing good credit may lead to more favorable financial options since having strong credit can make it easier to get a car loan, an apartment, a mortgage and even some jobs.  

    Your credit score is a snapshot of your overall credit history. When lenders complete a credit check, they’ll use your score – which can range from a low of 300 to a high of 850 — to help determine how likely you are to repay a loan in the future. The higher the credit score, the better a borrower looks to potential lenders, often leading to lower interest rates on mortgages, car loans, car insurance premiums and more. Lower interest rates could save you a significant amount of money over the course of your life. 

    Achieving a good credit score isn’t always a straightforward process, so Chase has tips to help: 

    The basics of credit 

    Several factors contribute to your credit score, all of which are part of your credit history, including:  

    Payment history: Lenders will see if you’ve consistently made payments on-time. Late payments, whether to your bills, credit cards or other loans, can hurt your score. 

    Credit utilization: This value examines how much credit you’re using. For example, if you have an $8,000 credit card limit and a $7,500 balance, lenders could see this as a risk because you’re possibly spending more than your income.  

    Length of credit history: Credit agencies will review the length of time you’ve had your accounts. A longer credit history is better.

    Credit mix: Having a variety of loans, credit cards or a mortgage is seen as beneficial. It shows you’re capable of managing multiple major purchases and paying them off. Stay smart about spending, however, and keep to a budget – you don’t want to take on debt just to earn a few points on your credit score. 

    New credit accounts: Creditors review how many new loans or lines of credit you’ve applied for or opened. Too many accounts can be a red flag that you’re spending more than you can pay on your own.  

    Lenders share information with three major credit bureaus — Equifax®, Experian™ and TransUnion® — who then calculate your credit score based on their own unique formulas. FICO® and VantageScore® also formulate credit scores from that data.  

    How to build credit 

    Now you know the importance of credit and how it’s measured, here’s how to start building yours.  

    Open a bank account: Although checking and savings accounts don’t factor into your credit score, lenders can review them to see how fiscally responsible you are. 

    Pay bills on time: Paying your utility bills, rent, credit cards and loans on time can also demonstrate fiscal responsibility to lenders.  

    Apply for a credit card: Used wisely, credit cards can speed up the process of building your credit. If you don’t have enough credit history to get a regular (unsecured) credit card, consider a secured credit card, which is tied to your bank account.

    Know the score 

    Managing your debts and paying your bills on time is key to establishing a good credit score. To keep a closer eye on your score, monitoring services are available and offer a way to stay aware of your credit situation without disruption Chase Credit Journey®, is available for free and you don’t have to be a Chase customer to use it. It helps you build, manage and protect your credit and identity, thus helpful toward building great credit.


    For more news courtesy of the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

    The pros and cons of buying or leasing a vehicle

    Sponsored by JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    Should I buy or lease a vehicle? As with many major purchases, there’s no definitive answer, but both options have specific pros – and cons – depending on your transportation needs and financial situation. 

    The differences between leasing and financing 

    Leasing and financing both provide you with a vehicle, but the payments yield different results. Think of leasing like renting an apartment while financing is like buying a house. 

    When you lease a car, you borrow it for a certain amount of time and make monthly payments for its use. Once the term is over, you return the car or opt to buy it, if buying is permitted under the lease contract. 

    When you finance a car, you take out a loan or installment financing and make monthly payments to a lender until it’s paid off. Once all payments are made, the vehicle is yours to keep for however long you please. 

    Leasing a car: Five pros and cons 

    1. Pro: Leases can sometimes come with lower monthly payments and down payments (if needed). Plus, many new leased vehicles often include maintenance and repair coverage under the manufacturer or dealer. As long as you avoid penalty fees (more on that below), you can likely save some money.  
    • Pro: Leases could be beneficial if you stay local. Your contract will have a set number of miles you’re allowed to drive during your lease term — if you know you’ll stay under that number and minimize wear and tear on your car, you’ll avoid penalties for excess use. 
    • Pro: Leases are ideal for car enthusiasts who enjoy new makes and models. The average lease is 36 months (three years), and when your lease is up, you simply return the vehicle and look for a new one.  
    • Con: You might have to pay additional fees. If you go over the mileage limit, you’ll face a penalty at the end of your lease. There are also early termination fees, as well as fees for any damage incurred. 
    • Con: You’ll always have a monthly payment, but unlike financing, you won’t end up with the vehicle when your term ends. You’ll make payments through the end of your lease term, and if you decide on another one, you’ll start a new monthly payment cycle.  

    Buying a car: Five pros and cons 

    1. Pro: The car is yours to keep once you pay it off. You don’t have to worry about getting another vehicle and negotiating another lease.  
    • Pro: You’ll enjoy unlimited mileage. If you plan to go on a lot of road trips or relocating in the future, you might rack up mileage more quickly than expected. By purchasing your car, you’ll avoid possible mileage fees or damage fees at the end of a lease. 
    • Pro: Your car payments end. Once your financing is paid off, you no longer have a monthly car payment to worry about, giving you more room in your budget for other financial goals. Plus, buying a car gives you control over your new asset, so you can even sell it for cash if your plans change in the future.  
    • Con: Financing may be more expensive. Car prices today are relatively high, and you may have to make a down payment even before your monthly payments begin. 
    • Con: You’ll have to pay for maintenance, inspections and other costs that may have been covered in a lease agreement. 

    How to decide between buying or leasing a car 

    Some people might choose to lease because they don’t drive a lot, or because they like having the option to get a new car in a few years. Others might like the permanency of financing a car to purchase, especially if they find deals on an older used car and can pay it off quickly.  

    Whether leasing or buying a car, it’s always a good idea to do your research, set a budget, and improve your credit score (if necessary) to ensure you’re getting into a car you can afford. Assess both your short-term and long-term financial goals and be sure to understand the terms of your lease or loan so you aren’t surprised by unexpected costs. Then, the choice is yours – happy driving!  


    For more information, tips, and tools visit chase.com/auto. For more news from the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

    Six tips for discussing money with your partner

    By CATRINA TATE

    This week, during the Indianapolis Recorder’s Money Smart Week, we’ll share daily articles about financial wellness. We’ll focus on topics including how to discuss money with your partner, create a budget, pay down your debt, prepare your kids for financial success, and improve your credit score. By the end of the week, you’ll be better prepared for your own financial journey!

    Money is one of the toughest topics for couples, but communicating openly about finances is a crucial part of having a trusting relationship.

    Here are six tips to help guide you through the conversation:

    1. Plan the discussion in advance.

      Broach the topic to your partner a few days before you want to have the “Big Money Talk.” This way, you’ll each be prepared with what you’d like to discuss and can focus on the conversation without distractions.  

      2. Start with a vision.

      Instead of starting the conversation with negative comments about your partner’s money choices, start with a vision you can both share. For example, you can discuss how you’d like to take a vacation or start saving for a home. This way, you are communicating a shared dream and putting a positive perspective on your conversation.

      3. Listen carefully to your partner.

      It’s important to listen carefully to what your partner has to say. Even if you think you are  more financially responsible, you may be surprised at the insights your partner shares.

      4. Talk openly about sharing expenses and savings.

      At a certain point in your relationship, you may decide to share expenses, to split them evenly and cover different costs, and/or to pool your savings. Whether you’re already at that level, or you plan to bring up the topic now, talk openly about the way you feel to avoid future resentment. For example, if you earn more than your partner, should you split expenses evenly? Can one partner take additional financial responsibilities instead of contributing an equal amount of income to the pot? If one partner goes over budget, will they need to cover the difference by contributing more money? All these questions are important to discuss to help prevent future hurt feelings. 

      At this point, consider linking one of your accounts or opening a shared account together at a bank or credit union.

      5. Consider having a slush fund.

      Sharing finances can be liberating in a partnership, but it can also feel constricting. Sometimes, you just want to splurge without having to explain it to your partner or buy them a surprise gift. Having a slush fund, money set aside for personal “just for fun” spending, can create a sense of independence and keep some purchases private. You can keep this fund in a separate checking account under your name.

      6. Set up a weekly or bi-weekly time to talk money.

      It’s helpful to touch base about finances once every one or two weeks. Setting aside time to talk about recent purchases, big upcoming expenses, surprise bills, and more will keep money arguments out of your everyday conversations. 

      Congratulations! You are ready to have the money talk with your partner. Stick to your commitments and be sure to bring up any issues that may arise during your regular money talks for continued harmonious financial collaboration. Learn more best practices for having family conversations about money through our free online learning module.

      Catrina Tate is vice president of Retail at Everwise Credit Union with more than 21 years of banking experience. Visit everwisecu.com.

      Brightwood Community Center receives grant for employment services

      Brightwood Community Center was awarded $393,946 to increase employment training initiatives and specialized services among Black residents.

      The employment initiative programming will include career services through Brightwood Community Center (BCC), and training through Hoosier Occupational Training Services, Star Training, Second Helpings, and the Indiana Plan for Equal Employment.

      “We proposed to help train and find employment for approximately 100 Black people between the ages of 18-35, women included,” said BCC Executive Director Shonna Majors.

      RELATED: Financial literacy starts at home

      “We previously did some workforce development last year and so this grant provides us another opportunity, a different opportunity to learn a skill set and then make a livable wage out of that training.”

      The new initiative will start in the summer.

      Funds were awarded in the third round of grants from the Indianapolis African American Quality of Life Initiative (IAAQLI).

      IAAQLI is a place-based community change project established through a partnership between the National Urban League, the Indianapolis Urban League, and the African American Coalition of Indianapolis.

      Funded through a one hundred-million-dollar grant from the Lilly Endowment, the goal of the IAAQLI is to acknowledge concerns and increase the quality of life of African American residents in Indianapolis.

      “These funds will help us continue the critical work that we do in building community sustainability,” said Majors.

      “Ensuring that residents receive employment training provides them with the opportunity to learn real job skills and enhance their own quality of life for themselves and their families.”

      Carlos King is a resident living in the area who has been looking for jobs.

      He said he has made his rounds through different community organizations to try to see who can help him with his unique situation.

      “I’m fighting a case. So, it’s hard when you have certain things on your record, or you’re worried about what’s next. The biggest thing isn’t even about getting a job, but it’s keeping one and being able to grow with more money,” said King.

      “What’s the use of these smaller jobs accepting felons when it’s only paying you minimum wage or only so much money? I can’t live with that.”

      When learning about the new initiative from the Brightwood Community Center, he said it was a good thing they are teaching people a new skillset to earn a higher paying wage than he is used to.

      “Because it’s needed. I know so many people like me out here who just want to do better. I’m trying to see what skills they’re willing to help us learn,” said King. 

      This minority business highlight was composed by Jade Jackson at the Indianapolis Recorder, who can be reached at (317) 762-7853 or via email at JadeJ@IndyRecorder.com.    

      If you would like your business highlighted in the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here!    

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