Salons and barbershops are the epicenters of their communities; places to gather, share stories and boost confidence. Despite limitations caused by the pandemic, the industry worked to continue supporting their communities throughout 2020 while getting creative and being themselves supported by their communities in 2021. As Thanksgiving approaches, we’d like to reflect upon and celebrate the philanthropic efforts of the beauty industry throughout the year.
Philanthropic Efforts
As businesses and local economies opened back up in 2021, salons and barbershops held fundraising efforts to support those who needed a little extra help. We saw the beauty industry step up to support efforts that included mental health & suicide awareness, local community recreation, and even help stepping back into the world with style. For instance, in North Bethesda, Maryland, Progressions salon spa store put on a fundraiser to benefit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Raising awareness around suicide and prevention, the NAMI fundraiser is just one example of how mental health and wellness are increasingly becoming a priority in the beauty industry.
Stylists and barbers also donated their time and offered beauty services to underserved individuals. In addition to opening their doors to those in need, members of the industry set up pop-up salons in neighborhoods, shelters, parks; anywhere they could to meet people where they were. Beauty industry professionals know the importance of good hair care. It can raise confidence and lower barriers. For individuals in underserved communities, it can mean the difference between a new job and not knowing where your next meal will come from.
In Seattle, Washington, the Zenoti Foundation, along with the Gene Juarez Academy and the Jubilee Women’s Center, provided free beauty services for shelter residents. Students at the Gene Juarez Academy, under the supervision of their licensed teachers, offered a custom menu of popular nail and haircut options. By simply opening their doors and offering time and services, members of the beauty industry such as the Zenoti Foundation and stylists at the Gene Juarez Academy have been able to impact the lives of thousands of individuals in need across the nation.
Industry Priorities
Philanthropy and inclusivity are top priority in the industry. Now more than ever brands want to curate a community, inspire consumers and do something for the greater good. At the same time, consumers want a brand they can align with, trust and engage. Some companies are now allowing consumers the option to round up totals, donate via reward points and pick which organization their donation goes to. Companies are beginning to see the benefit of having a collaborative relationship with their communities and are looking to make an effective impact.
Better Beauty
There are many different ways to give back and support communities. This year the industry got creative and found ways to donate more than money through utilizing their time and skills to put an emphasis on the wellbeing of those around them. From the large cosmetic companies to the neighborhood barbershop, the beauty industry has shown they will continue to find new ways to do better by their communities and colleagues.
Kathy Lopez, Account Manager for SASSI, the Salon and Spa Specialty Insurance program at Brownyard Group. She can be reached at klopez@brownyard.com.
