Helping Others Reach the American Dream of Home Ownership: Springfield Business Journal Feature

By JANET SEITZ

Larry Robinson, owner of J&L Properties, has renovated numerous houses on the east side of Springfield. He recently formed J&L Foundation to assist more people in becoming homeowners, particularly in poverty-stricken neighborhoods.

Larry Robinson is constructing a better life for others one house at a time. He founded Springfield's J&L Properties in 2010 and recently formed J&L Foundation to focus on revitalizing poverty-stricken neighborhoods, particularly on Springfield's east side where he grew up.

"Most of my properties are in lower-income neighborhoods," said the 41-year-old Robinson, "and about 70% are Section 8 housing. Additionally, I provide affordable housing and create jobs through multiple businesses. This helps people who may not have the qualifications for traditional jobs, and I offer training as well."

Robinson said he was inspired to get into this line of work early on.

"Real estate and construction have always been a part of my life," he said. "My grandfather was in construction and ran a successful company. I learned a lot from him and knew from a young age that this was the field I wanted to pursue.

"My greatest challenge," Robinson continued, "was navigating and overcoming the various obstacles life threw my way so that I could finally launch and thrive in the business as I had always envisioned."

One challenge was severely breaking his foot in a car crash, after which he underwent multiple surgeries to restore his ability to walk again. He said the accident had a significant impact on him, as he couldn't be as productive on the job site.

"I was limited in my movements, and I'm used to doing things myself," Robinson said. "It affected me mentally as I wasn't prepared to need help. I'd never broken a bone or had to rely on someone else. As an entrepreneur, you feel like the business doesn't operate without you. However, the experience made me grateful for the people I could rely on and made me grateful for the use of my limbs. It gave me a newfound respect for those who live with such challenges every day."

Robinson understands that people experience a variety of challenges, including his own employees. "I think the greatest impact I see is with my workers. I provide shuttle services to ensure they can get back and forth to work. I also rent houses and rooms so they have a place to live. This has made a significant difference in their lives," he said.

Ward 2 Ald. Shawn Gregory has known him for a long time and said he can attest to the difference Robinson is making in people's lives.

"He is doing a wonderful job rehabbing houses, renting and even selling homes to those in need," he said. Gregory is also impressed by Robinson's efforts to teach people in the community about issues relating to banking and more.

Gregory has witnessed Robinson rehab "many houses that may have been in need of some TLC." Some homes were almost ready to be demolished, but eventually he was able to see new families living in the properties.

Robinson said, "One of the most memorable experiences was renting out my first house and seeing the joy on the face of the person who received it. There's nothing better than that."

The greatest reward Robinson found "has been providing for people who can't afford nice homes. The greatest reward is giving back to the community I come from. It gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It feels good, not only as a man, but also as a person because I'm leading by example and putting actions behind my words. It's encouraging when people comment on my social media, telling me how good a job I'm doing – seeing the impact I'm making is a sign of leadership."

The newly formed J&L Foundation will further the impact. Gregory said this nonprofit entity "would be amazing and is just an example of the person he is. He just keeps elevating and showing others that they can do it, too. I would love to see him and others get into the affordable housing market as well."

One of Robinson's main focuses for 2025-2026 is his program, Housing 4 All, designed to help put people in the position to become homeowners. He plans to purchase contract for deed homes for individuals who may have the financial means but not good credit. "I want to help people become homeowners without having to navigate all the usual obstacles," he said.

Also planned are financial literacy classes on topics such as credit, real estate, equity and money management to help sustain homeownership.

"I also envision the foundation donating clothes, organizing back-to-school drives and giving away food to those in need," Robinson added. "By supporting this program, the community can help us create more opportunities for homeownership and improve the quality of life for many families. Whether through volunteering, spreading awareness or providing financial support, any assistance will contribute to making a significant impact."

Gregory sees Robinson raising the bar for the community's housing opportunities. "He is an example of what we need to do as Black men to uplift our communities and keep growing personally. I'm proud of the work he has done, not only in Ward 2, but throughout the city," he said.