Volunteer Hairdressers Sought for Youth in Brasschaat Facility

The youth care organization OLO-Rotonde in Brasschaat, Belgium, is calling for volunteer hairdressers to participate in a special "Great OLO Cutting Day" on September 9. The initiative aims to provide haircuts for young people residing in the organization's living groups, helping them start the new school year with renewed confidence. Thomas Van Meel, a volunteer and hairdresser at OLO-Rotonde, explained the motivation behind the event. "Young people often have to choose between going to the hairdresser or doing a fun activity because there is still too little budget in youth facilities," he said. "That's why I came up with the idea of organizing one big cutting day with a number of volunteer hairdressers. This way, every young person staying there gets the chance to have their hair cut and start the school year with a fresh look." The organization anticipates cutting the hair of between 50 to 100 young people who wish to participate. While the organization will provide the location and chairs, they are appealing to volunteers to bring their own professional equipment, such as scissors, clippers, and cutting capes, if possible. This would help reduce the organization's costs and streamline the event preparations. Van Meel emphasized the importance of experience for the volunteers. "Preferably people who have experience in the sector, as it is not easy for everyone to cut the hair of young children," he noted. He added that while past haircuts were limited, today's youth are exposed to diverse styles through social media, making experienced stylists a significant asset. The event is particularly meaningful for Van Meel, who spent a significant part of his youth in similar facilities. "It is an enormous boost for a young person in a difficult situation that someone is there to listen or chat with you, or who ensures that you can look in the mirror and think: 'Wow, I look good today. I can take on the world.'"

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Young people often have to choose between going to the hairdresser or doing a fun activity because there is still too little budget in youth facilities.