Benefit for Social Services

On April 26th we had a cut-a-thon to raise money to buy clothes for children in Boulder County Social Services. We thought of this idea when one of clients who works for Social Services told us she just placed two children who came to her with just the clothes on their backs. I guess I never really thought about how dire some situations are for children in our own community.
Since talking to Brandy Queen that day I’ve had the opportunity to learn a lot more about the services provided by Social Services. Another Chicago Hair client has just completed training in C.A.S.A. She will be a child advocate in court and legal settings. Ilene, has also been mentoring two young girls who are being raised by their Grandmother. Once a week she spends time with these girls and gives Grandma a well deserved break. We provide Gift Cards to Social Services and I was fortunate to cut the Grandmas hair. It was a honor to meet and talk to Connie. She is a long time Lafayette resident. I also live in Lafayette and she was able to teach me some of the history of the town I’ve raised my children in.
Thomi Quakenbush (volunteer coordinator for Social Services) and I started planning this benefit in January. Thomi was a hairstylist for many years so we immediately hit off. Her enthusiasm and energy greatly increased the success of our benefit. Thomi worked the event with us. She helped sweep hair and do towels on her day off. We had a young lady in the salon who was placed in Social Services when she was four and now is a beautiful, successful 31 year old women. I’ve heard stories of Social Services employees in other communities who are jaded and too busy to do what is best for the children. In Boulder County these people care so much for these children. I hope we can all find some way to make these children know we care because after all they our children. The 1st annual benefit was a resounding success. In 6 hours 6 hairstylists raised $1200. Our hairstylists all donated a day of work. I’m one lucky salon owner to have such a caring staff. I can’t wait till next year. Anyone out there want to join us?