Nearly 20 individuals with developmental disabilities received free haircuts in a calm, judgment-free setting at Barber Shop Social in downtown Powell on Aug. 11, during a "Cuts for a Cause" event for families who say routine grooming can be overwhelming.
The event was funded by The Henrietta "Hetty" Cuzzer Charitable Trust and organized in partnership with Focus on Abilities, a political action committee supporting the Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities' levy campaign. It is one of several community outreach efforts Focus on Abilities is running ahead of a DCBDD levy vote on Tuesday, Nov. 3, according to Delaware Source.
Barber Shop Social, at 220 Olentangy St., describes itself as "handicap accessible and sensory friendly, making grooming comfortable for all." The shop provided a low-stimulation environment where participants could get a haircut without the noise, bright lights and unpredictability of a typical salon visit.
One parent of a participant said the event gave their son a space where he could feel comfortable and accepted. "Seeing him relax and enjoy the experience meant so much to our family," the parent told Delaware Source. "It wasn't just about getting a haircut, it was about having a community that recognizes his needs, celebrates him for who he is, and makes sure he has the same opportunities to participate as everyone else."
The turnout was strong. The event's organizers told Delaware Source they hope to build on the response with future inclusive events across Delaware County.
About the Nov. 3 levy
The ballot measure is a new 1.8-mill, five-year levy that would replace the DCBDD's expiring 2-mill levy. Delaware County voters narrowly rejected a combined renewal-and-increase levy on May 5 by 552 votes, with 50.69% voting no, according to the Columbus Dispatch.
The current 2-mill levy expires Dec. 31. If the replacement passes, it would cost property owners $63 per year for every $100,000 of appraised value and collect roughly $25.4 million annually. Delaware County commissioners approved placing the new levy on the general election ballot on July 20.
DCBDD Superintendent Kristine Hodge wrote in a May 20 letter that the board's "commitment to people with developmental disabilities, their families, and this community remains unchanged" despite the earlier defeat, and that the board would evaluate options for a November ballot measure.
Upcoming community dates
- Tuesday, Nov. 3 — DCBDD 1.8-mill levy on the general election ballot
- Future Cuts for a Cause events to be announced at FocusOnAbilities.org; contact Howard Heffelfinger at 614-726-1862 for information
