5 minute read
We Love Our Kids
from The Link Issue 51
by The AHLC
By Shonda and Chasity King, Gifted Creations Restoration Hair Loss Clinic and Gifted Creations Salon, Midway, GA
In 1998, Lovania LeCounte started a community event where she would give away school supplies to help relieve financial burden to her parents. I had volunteered for many years and saw a need for these children to have hair services. I thought about giving the kids gift cards. But, because of privacy and possible discrimination issues it was not possible. The solution I found was to offer a community wide event, called "We Love Our Kids," where any parent could register their child or grandchild and come to an event where every child attending would feel like a "VIP."
This year marks our fifth year. It is incredible how 72 volunteers from three different states and 28 stylists and barbers come together to bless our community. We were able to serve 123 kids. Each child received a backpack filled with school supplies, personal hygiene items, shampoo, conditioners, combs, brushes, and more. We were overwhelmed with support from local businesses, and even had one of our kids receive the new edition of Nike brand Jordan sneakers!
Local and state officials joined us in our cause, and we are thrilled to have made a beautiful impact on our community. This event is a testament to the power of unity and helping one another, showing children that people truly care and love them.
Our initiative aims to bring together hair and community in a unique way by providing complimentary hair services to children; including haircuts, natural twists, braids, and more. These services catered to children from ages three in pre-K to high school seniors, with a special focus on single parents, the less fortunate, and orphans.
The vision behind this initiative is to alleviate burden on parents by offering essential services like haircare, which can greatly impact a child's self-esteem, confidence, and overall well-being. In addition to hair services, children also received free school uniforms and groceries, thanks to partners like IGA, Pizza Peddler, McDonald’s, Infinite Academy, Ballast Reality, King, Allen, Holmes, Gatlin, Donavan, Jones, Roberts Families, The Center Ministries, Plunder Box and many sponsors and volunteers.
Various vendors and volunteers offered additional services such as face painting, nail services, cotton candy, slushes, treats and more.
The event featured activities of braiding, styling mannequins, and enjoyment of delicious treats (waffles, cupcakes, candy, pizza, BBQ ribs, chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, fried fish, and more). We brought together multiple local communities to make this event a greater success. Teenage sessions were organized to assist youths in transitioning from middle school to high school, and high school to college. Counselors from Coastal Family Counseling Center and Coles Counseling provided support to parents, bridging the communication gap and addressing emotional needs.
We ended the day with movie night for the entire family. We hosted a special screening of the movie "Inside Out" for children and their families. They enjoyed free slushies, popcorn, and treats, making the event absolutely amazing. The children were beyond excited and appreciative. I cannot wait to see what the upcoming year will bring for our community events!
Every year, we present awards and certificates of volunteer appreciation, but this year was particularly special. It was my first time awarding our "Heart Awards" to those who have been with me since day one, supporting the vision, and going above and beyond to help make it a reality. These individuals truly believe in the vision and have wholeheartedly said yes to supporting it. I am beyond grateful for the unwavering support of the best sponsors and supporters. I love you all!
Of the volunteers, there are eight that serve on my board and planning committee. This will be my first time to treat them to a full spa day. This luxurious experience includes a full body massage with hot stones, a deep tissue massage, a full facial, and a delightful brunch.
We Love Our Kids united the community to support and uplift the next generation, and we are grateful for everyone who contributed to making it a memorable and impactful event.
We look forward to continuing to serve and uplift our community in the years to come. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our children and create a brighter future for all.
Growing up with a single mom I realized people judge you on your appearance. When kids feel good about themselves, they not only learn better, but they also develop a stronger sense of self-confidence. Sometimes we only need one person to believe in us. That's what I hope this event will accomplish for each person involved. When the kids walked in feeling unsure, it was incredible to see their confidence grow after each had a hair service. What a beautiful experience to witness!
