A life of service
The care we receive
becomes the care we give.
Family, mentoring, practical skills, and time spent showing up for others.
Investing in young lives
More than an activity.
A chance to belong.
Through a youth program under our Church of God congregation, I spent time with boys learning skills, building character, and enjoying experiences together.
We went fishing, took field trips, and rode go-karts in the church parking lot. I gave free haircuts to boys in the program and taught barbering and computer-building skills.
Mr. Morris and other members of the church helped support the work. The program was part of our church; it was not a separate nonprofit organization.
The people who encouraged me as a child showed me the value of taking an interest in a young person. This was one way I could pass that encouragement on.
Practical encouragement
Skills. Confidence.
Time together.
A haircut could open the door to a conversation. Learning how to use tools, care for equipment, or complete a task offered opportunities to teach patience and responsibility.
Those experiences also helped shape my concern for families who struggle to afford grooming. They are part of the history behind my continuing interest in community care.
Hands-on caregiving
Getting to know
the people in my care.
While awaiting trial in Illinois, I worked at Lutheran Social Services with people living with cerebral palsy in group homes. My experience included helping with daily routines, getting residents ready for dinner, and making them comfortable for the evening.
My nursing studies had introduced me to care settings, but working alongside these residents built relationships. That experience helped shape the compassionate approach I brought to grooming.
See where the Hairlines story began →
Care comes home
Returning the love
that raised me.
My grandmother helped shape my life through the Word of God. When she developed dementia, I welcomed her into my home and cared for her until she passed away.
She could not remember much during that season, but she would tell me about caring for older people when she was young. Here I was, caring for her.
I also had the privilege of caring for Pastor Sandra Allen through our congregation during her later years. These relationships reminded me that service is personal. It happens in the ordinary moments as much as in public ministry.
A personal invitation
Let’s have a conversation.
Whether you’re a pastor, a caregiver, or someone getting to know my story, I welcome the connection.