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SEARCHTrends come and go, but for Vince and Orrine Pinto, owners of Head Hunter Family Haircutters salons in upstate New York, some things in the beauty industry should have permanence. In their more than 50 years in the business, philanthropy has been one of those things.
Trends come and go, but for Vince and Orrine Pinto, owners of Head Hunter Family Haircutters salons in upstate New York, some things in the beauty industry should have permanence. In their more than 50 years in the business, philanthropy has been one of those things. They have hosted cut-a-thons and events to raise money for causes such as breast cancer and muscular dystrophy. Their Everyday Heroes program began September 11, 2002, when the pair opened their doors to law enforcement officials, active military members and emergency and rescue personnel to offer free haircuts and gratitude for their service.
“It was our distinctive honor to do the right thing on that day,” Vince Pinto says. “This was just a small way of showing our appreciation for all those who protect, rescue and save lives every day.”
Head Hunter’s first Everyday Heroes Recognition Day was so successful that it made the nightly news. The salon has been honoring 9/11 responders every year since, opening at 9 a.m. and offering complimentary haircuts to servicemen and women for 11 hours. They also distribute appreciation certificates and T-shirts labeled “Everyday Heroes,” provide food, play music and thank those in attendance for doing the job they do each day.
Head Hunter Family Haircutters has received recognition from the New York State Cosmetology Association and the National Cosmetology Association, but the Pintos still have a grander plan for this program. Their goal is to have other salons and spas join them in recognizing everyday heroes on 9/11. The owners have gained the support of NY-SCA President Cindi Ezman, who has been visiting salons in New York to encourage them to register with the Everyday Heroes Recognition Day Committee to be a part of the following year’s project. The Pintos want to expand the program nationwide.
Salons interested in participating can contact Head Hunter Family Haircutters by email at headhuntersl2534@gmail.com.
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