It’s Black Business Month!

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Did you know that August is Black Business Month? It’s a time to honor and recognize all of the small businesses and entrepreneurs in our communities across Los Angeles. Here at Children’s Institute, we’ve been thinking consciously about the independent vendors with which we partner. Everything from food to flowers to decorations is often provided by a third-party service. We aim to hire people from the communities where we live and work, not just for events, but for our organization as well. We’ve worked with local black businesses who have taken our programs and events to the next level, and we want to share their incredible talent with you.

Andres House of Floral Design
Andre’s House of Floral Design in Leimert Park offers custom and personal floral arrangements for all occasions. We loved working with them for our Watts Grand Opening and our 2021 Cape and Gown Gala!

Chef Keith Corbin
We’ve been honored to work with Watts’ own Keith Corbin! Chef and Co-Owner of Alta Adams in West Adams and James Beard Award Nominee, he’s known for his unique take on soul food: a fusion of West African food and California cuisine. We’re excited to celebrate the release of his new memoir California Soul: An American Epic of Cooking and Survival that follows his journey from cooking in prison to running his own restaurant.

 

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Spectacular Events Décor
Georgeo Mcallister, aka “Mackee,” is known for creating unique and memorable balloon creations around Los Angeles. He helped make the Dream BIG Graduation and our Watts Campus Grand Opening fun and festive days to remember.
You can check out his work by heading to his website.

Charles Wine Company
Charles Wine Company is family-owned boutique wine business with vineyards located in the Lodi Appellation of California. We partnered with them for our Virtual Cape & Gown Gala and were impressed with selections of wines they offered! Head to their website to learn more about their wines, events, and vineyards.

 

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If you’re looking for something in our very own Watts neighborhood, check out these local Black-owned eateries!

Wings ‘n’ Waffles food truck has perfected the chicken and waffles with their unique spices and recipes. They also do community outreach, give away student scholarships, and provide an entrepreneur mentorship program all through their Wings ‘n’ Waffles Foundation.

Nature’s Thirst Trap is a juice and health food small business. Imani, the owner and Compton native, recognized that her neighborhood was lacking a health food restaurant, so she decided to share her passion for veganism and healthy living with her community.

Similarly, Crystal’s Soul Café offers Compton a delicious selection of vegan soul food. They describe themselves as “Black owned serving all divine souls.” You can get a taste of how delicious their food is just by checking out their Instagram.

 

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Compton Vegan’s owner, Lemel Durrah, also recognized the need for healthy food alternatives. You can check out his scrumptious takes on vegan soul food at his food truck or West LA location.

 

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Hawkins House of Burgers offers the best of a traditional burger joint with a variety of burgers, such as their Turkey Burger or Fish Burger as well as breakfast platters and a crowd favorite, chicken and waffles.

Watts Coffee House is more than just coffee and tea. They’re serving up all- American breakfast and brunch favorites with occasional menu items such as smothered pork chops, fried lobster and grits, and beef brisket.


Additionally, Los Angeles is in the midst of celebrating Black Restaurant Week until August 28th. If you’re a foodie and in the mood for trying hotspots all around the greater LA area, check out their suggestions.