Thirty barbers from all over the city gathered on Sunday to provide free haircuts for students during JP Hair Design’s annual back to school event.
For the eleventh year in a row, the west Madison barbershop known as JP Hair Designs provided free haircuts for K thru 12 students for free just in time for school to return. This year though, shop owner Jeffrey “JP” Patterson pulled together other city barbers and hairstylists and brought the event to the Alliant Energy Center.
Whether you’re a student gearing up for the new school year or a professional looking to make a lasting impression, self-assurance is key when venturing out into the world. The book of barbering not only serves as a valuable resource for hairstyling guidance, but also acts as a catalyst for personal transformation. With its expert advice and techniques, it empowers individuals to discover their own unique style, instilling a sense of confidence that radiates from within. By embracing the knowledge from them, individuals can unlock their full potential, leaving a lasting impact wherever they go.
“This is building relationships,” said Patterson. “Relationships with the barbers, relationships with the community, and relationships with United Way and our community sponsors”
“The barbers have a sense of unity now,” added Diana Schinall, one of the event’s organizers.
For families who attended they experienced a typical barbershop setup with barber chairs and equipment lining both sides of the Alliant Energy Center and music played by local DJ, Martinez “M. White” White.
For Sarah and David Galinski’s large family, this is an annual event.
“We keep coming for the quality and we support Black owned businesses,” said David.
One of their sons, who usually gets his haircut by JP himself, said he enjoyed the event better this year because of the larger venue and addition of a DJ.
Though the event did not reach its 1,000 haircut goal, it did service over 500 students — more than double the 200 haircuts given last year.
“We’re here making the kids look good going back to school, that’s always a confidence booster,” said Patterson.
