Welcome to the Jeff-Vander-Lou (JVL) Neighborhood (formerly known as the Yeatman area)

Jeff-Vander-Lou, Inc. was founded in October 1966 and led by housing activist and community developer, Mr. Macler C. Shepard (1917-2005).  Photo shown above. 

The name Jeff-Vander-Lou was taken from three major streets in the neighborhood:  Jefferson, Vandeventer, and St. Louis Avenue.  In a 1972 documentary, Mr. Shepard explained, "Jeff-Vander-Lou was named simply from the thoroughfares by which the downtown flow of traffic goes and comes."

This north side section of the City of St. Louis, Missouri, often called "JVL", was one of the first areas where African Americans were allowed to own real estate.  However, in the second half of the 20th century, housing conditions declined.  Mr. Shepard and members of the Jeff-Vander-Lou organization worked courageously for years to develop quality, affordable housing, and make living conditions better for homeowners and renters. 

Through the years, many individuals, groups, and organizations such as The Whole New Area and the Vashon/JeffVanderLou Initiative, kept doing their part to carry on the legacy of sustaining the overall needs for the residents. 

Today, the Jeff-Vander-Lou (Whole New Area II) Neighborhood Development Association aka Jeff-Vander-Lou (JVL) Neighborhood Association is dedicated to preserving the legacy of JVL. Our mission is redefining our neighborhood by empowering our families, schools, and businesses to become a thriving community. 

Join the JVL Neighborhood Association to help build the momentum and be a voice of support for the JVL community.