In 2019, as Jay Cortez- Thomas eagerly awaited the arrival of his son, he faced an unexpected setback. His position at one of the largest digital marketing companies in the US was terminated, leaving him without his full severance. With a new house to support and limited job opportunities, Jay found himself at a crossroads. Determined to provide for his growing family, Jay decided to take a leap of faith and start his own “tailor-made” marketing firm. With the support of Access Plus Capital (APC), Jay obtained a loan that gave him the much-needed jump-start to care for his family and build a lasting legacy.
Grateful for the opportunity provided by APC, Jay acknowledges that the loan afforded him the ability to be a provider and create a cultural staple where black men take care of their families, regardless of their partners’ employment status. During the pandemic, Jay launched a podcast focusing on black men and fatherhood, leading him to join a focus group and develop the Black Fatherhood Legacy Program in collaboration with the Black Wellness and Prosperity Center (BWPC). Through monthly workshops, the BWPC equips fathers with the tools to nurture, protect, and provide for their children.
Reflecting on the importance of balancing business ownership and fatherhood, Jay advises others to find a harmonious balance between making money and cherishing precious moments with their children. Father’s Day holds profound meaning for Jay as it symbolizes a legacy passed down through generations, breaking the cycle of fatherlessness. To celebrate, Jay simply desires the presence of his children and advocates for spending quality time at home with loved ones.
As a black-owned digital marketing company, Jay invites support from fellow business owners and encourages them to visit www.tailormademktg.com to witness the excellence of his work and to support his previous clients. J’s journey exemplifies resilience and the determination to build a legacy, embodying the values of fatherhood and leaving a lasting impact for his son and future generations.
To further support, listen to the Black Fatherhood Legacy Podcast here and visit the Black Wellness & Prosperity Center https://www.blackwpc.org/ – a dedicated organization to the Black community in California’s Central Valley with the goal of improving Black Maternal and Infant Health outcomes.