Taking Justice into Our Own Hands
Bumpy Start; Strong Finish
By Brittany Winkfield
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ussell “Buttons” Patterson, Jr., once made $150,000 a week selling crack cocaine. Later, he instituted a successful drug program at the very HBCU from which he was ejected 40 years prior for smoking marijuana.

Patterson is in the business of redeeming the time and people who need redeeming. His own story of redemption, however, began when he was accidentally released from prison where he could have possibly served a 28-year sentence for armed robbery. The judge knocked the charge down to a misdemeanor and ultimately expunged Patterson’s record.

Patterson went on to finish both his theology degree and a master’s degree in education administration and business from Southwestern Adventist University. His story and passion drive his purpose and mission today because, as he puts it, he’s the “Preacha from hell, with a story to tell.”

Russell “Buttons” Patterson, Jr. speaking with glasses and suit on

Today, Patterson owns Professional Services Network, Inc. (PSN), a deal he closed in the midst of the pandemic. He considers himself blessed to have raised close to a half million in capital to purchase the 30-year-old company.

As the owner and CFO of the organization, along with his wife of 24 years, Hazel, the CEO, they aim to fulfill their dream in “making stuff happen for people less fortunate. “It’s in our blood to be out in the streets,” Patterson says. “I believe God gave us PSN to fulfill our dream of helping others.”

“We serve a living God,” Patterson continues, “and if you trust Him, obey and believe, He will take care of you. His love is so strong that He will come to you individually and answer your prayers.”