Barber Shop event gives young men self-confidence boost

SALISBURY, Md. – On Saturday, young men facing all kinds of adversities across the shore got a newfound sense of confidence with the help of a new haircut and a little extra love.

“It enables these kids to boost their confidence, relay better to their peers and just get a whole different way at looking at things,” said Veronica Stancliff, support specialist at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore.

It is all part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore Barber Shop event and on Saturday many of these kids found mentorship and a chance to escape from their day-to-day circumstances.

“We have kids whose parents are incarcerated or affected by incarceration,” said Stancliff.

“We also have children who are affected by opioid use,” said Stancliff.

“They come from a very urban area where they don’t have the essential that they need, that they want,” said Carmelo Guerrero, an assistant coach at the Down Under Boxing Club.

To help them these kids also got the chance to learn how to how to tie a tie and the steps they need to take to become a professional.

They also gained self-discipline and teamwork skills through sports like basketball and even boxing.

Carmelo Guerrero at the Down Under Boxing Club says getting these kids in the ring inspires self-confidence, self-respect and self-value.

But, ultimately, organizers and parents say this event creates opportunities for new friendships that will help them succeed moving forward.

“It gives them a chance to interact with other kids with same type of skills and same type of likeness,” said Kristin Gratz, a parent.

Organizers say the event, which took place at the 410 Arts & Sports Community Center, also teaches kids how to make healthier choices and how to cultivate good manners.