For the next instalment in our blog series, RTR Features, we are interviewing B. JaWuan Jones, creator of Haircut4Homeless.
RTR Features, is all about interviewing people in our community who are doing amazing things in the world, people who are an inspiration to us. Whether it is something with charity, business, sports or music we are gonna be on the hunt for anyone who is hustling everyday and makes us and and our supporters want to do the same. We all have it in us, sometimes we just need that extra bit of motivation...
Haircut4Homeless (@haircut4homeless) is a Philadelphia based, self-funded initiative serving those in need that was created by B. JaWuan Jones in 2017. He has already helped over 3000 people on the streets of Philadelphia and is about to embark on a 13 city Cutz of Compassion Tour with the Compassion Crew, follow their journey and get involved! Here is his story….
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what you are doing?
I’m a veteran barber with over 10 years’ experience from Chester, Philadelphia. I started Haircut4Homeless two years ago out of a desire to do something for the homeless population. Most organizations clothe and feed the homeless, I wanted to do something a little different and use the skills I had for a good cause
Over 3000 haircuts in just two years is incredible, how did you get started and can you tell us about the journey?
One day I decided to go out and give a few haircuts to those in need. After doing so, my wife posted a video on social media that night and the next morning the video generated over 2.4m views. H4H was born and has been going strong ever since!!
What do you think has been the hardest thing about the journey?
So far the hardest part is trying to figure out a way the journey throughout the winter months.
For people reading this, what can they do to help?
Being a self-funded initiative isn’t easy so financial help is always needed but there’s plenty of other ways to help. If you’re in the Philadelphia or surrounding areas you can come out and volunteer, or even just a repost on social media goes a long way.
What is your proudest moment?
My proudest moment would have to be when the mayor of Philadelphia stepped in after a brief shut down by licenses and inspection and gave me his blessing to continue my mission in the court yard of the Philadelphia City hall building, a main tourist stop and very historic area. I instantly became a tourist attraction.
What is your main motivations for running the organization and what do you have planned?
I’m motivated by the lives I connect with and the feeling I get knowing that I’m playing a part in rebranding humanity. My 5-year plan is to open a homeless shelter and resource center, would solve a lot of the problems with winter. Helping one person might not change the whole world, but it could change the whole world for one person.
What is the biggest thing you have learnt throughout the journey?
To not judge a book by its cover, everyone has a story and it’s amazing what you can learn by realizing that.
Who has been your biggest influence and why?
100% my children have been my biggest influence. Leading by example, showing them how to show love and compassion towards others and watching them grow.
What do you do outside of H4H?
Outside of H4H I’m a husband and a father of 5. I spend most of my days chasing children and changing diapers!!
Anything else you would like our audience to be aware/know about what you are doing?
Lastly I would love everyone to join in on the mission. You don’t have to be a barber, or have a lot of money, just make sure you do something for someone else. We were blessed to be a blessing!
A huge thank you to B. JaWuan Jones for telling us his story, truly inspirational and such a great cause. If you know anyone else that we should get some gear and talk to, fire us an email on hello@robtherich.com
Thanks for reading and make sure you check him out on Insta!