OUR PROGRAMS

Program Description

PGCBASSN provides monthly CPR/AED training and certification for licensed professionals, turning barbers into potential lifesavers within our community. This initiative ensures that barber shops are not only centers for grooming but also safe spaces where professionals are prepared to respond in emergency situations. Certification is offered through our partnerships with healthcare organizations and is available to all members

Barbershops are high-traffic spaces where people from all walks of life gather—and medical emergencies can happen in the blink of an eye. This program ensures our members are prepared, empowered, and ready to take action when it matters most.

• Accredited CPR/AED certification courses

• Hands-on instruction and real-life scenario training

• Renewal and recertification support every two years

• In-shop group training options for full barber teams

Benefits for Barbers

• Life-Saving Confidence Be prepared to assist clients or coworkers during medical emergencies such as cardiac arrest or choking.

• Professional Credibility CPR-certified barbers stand out as responsible, community-minded professionals.

• Insurance & Liability Readiness Shops with trained staff may qualify for insurance discounts and are better positioned in liability-related incidents.

• Community Trust Clients appreciate barbers who go the extra mile—especially when it’s about their health and safety.

• Career Advancement Certification adds value to your resume, increases your leadership capacity, and opens doors for youth mentorship and outreach work.

Success Stories

1. “One of my clients fainted in the chair—thank God I had just finished PGCBASSN’s CPR course. I kept calm, followed the steps, and we were able to get him help in time. That training gave me the confidence to act when seconds mattered.” — Tyrone M., Master Barber & Shop Owner, Upper Marlboro

2. “We hosted a group CPR training in our shop through the association, and now my whole team is certified. It’s been a game-changer for our credibility with families and community organizations.” — Lisa C., Barber-Educator & Mentor, Silver Spring

3. “As someone who mentors teens through barbering, having this skill set makes me feel like I’m protecting more than just their hairline—I’m protecting their lives.” — Darryl J., Youth Program Volunteer & PGCBASSN Member

Program Overview

Our signature community initiative provides professional grooming services to individuals in need, including unhoused citizens, job seekers, and those facing challenging life transitions. When someone looks in the mirror after receiving our services, they see possibility. This program restores dignity, builds confidence, and creates pathways for success while providing our members with meaningful ways to give back to the community.

It’s not just about appearance—it’s about dignity, self-worth, and a fresh start. We believe when people feel good about themselves, they’re more likely to pursue opportunities, show up with confidence, and contribute positively to their communities.

• One-on-one grooming sessions with licensed professionals

• Motivational conversation and mentorship

• Coordinated with nonprofits, workforce agencies, and schools

• Available by event or individual referral

Community Impact

• Reentry Support: Dozens of returning citizens have used this program as a confidence boost for reintegrating into the workforce and society.

• Youth Empowerment: High school seniors, trade school students, and young job seekers receive guidance and a sharp look as they step into adulthood.

• Workforce Readiness: In collaboration with local job training programs, we’ve helped candidates prepare for interviews with both skills and style.

• Crisis Response: We’ve provided grooming services for individuals in shelters, transitional housing, and addiction recovery programs across the DMV area.

How to Participate

For Barbers:

• Volunteer for upcoming events or join our rotating list of on-call stylists.

• Offer chair time at your shop or take part in mobile grooming events.

• Receive community service hours and public recognition for your work.

For Organizations:

• Partner with us to schedule group sessions for your clients.

• Refer individuals who could benefit from a grooming confidence boost.

• Collaborate on joint initiatives and outreach events.

For Community Members:

• Nominate someone in need.

• Sponsor a haircut or donate grooming supplies.

• Spread the word to those going through life transitions.

Educational Opportunities

PGCBASSN is committed to planting seeds of success in the next generation. Our Youth Mentorship & Career Development program introduces students to the world of barbering—not just as a trade, but as a disciplined craft, a business opportunity, and a lifelong profession.

We offer:

• Barbering 101 Workshops in local schools and community centers

• Hands-on skills demos in grooming, hygiene, and self-presentation

• Introduction to entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and customer service

• Field trips to barbershops, barber schools, and industry events

This is more than a glimpse into the trade—it’s a guided pathway toward purpose and potential.

School Partnerships

We collaborate with educators, guidance counselors, and career programs across:

• Public and charter high schools

• Alternative learning programs

• Juvenile justice centers

• Vocational and technical institutes

Each partnership is tailored to meet students where they are—offering them real-world insight into barbering, self-development, and the power of discipline and consistency.

Career Guidance Initiatives

This program doesn't just talk about the future—we help shape it. Key initiatives include:

• One-on-one and group mentorships with licensed barbers

• Internship and apprenticeship placement assistance

• Career panels and guest speaker sessions with industry professionals

• Resume help, interview prep, and personal branding coaching

• Support with enrollment into licensed barber programs or certification courses

We focus on cultivating not just barbers, but leaders, entrepreneurs, and mentors-in-training.

Health Screening Events

As pillars of the neighborhood, barbers are in a unique position to promote health and well-being. Through PGCBASSN’s Community Health Initiatives, we partner with healthcare providers to host in-shop screening events and pop-up clinics that offer:

• Blood pressure checks

• Diabetes screenings

• Mental health awareness sessions

• COVID-19 and flu vaccination access

• Vision and dental information booths

These events bring healthcare directly to the community—in a place where people already feel at home and heard.

Information Distribution

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to health. PGCBASSN barbers receive ongoing training and access to educational materials to share with clients, including:

• Flyers on hypertension, diabetes, and cancer prevention

• Brochures for local clinics, counseling services, and insurance programs

• Referrals to trusted health professionals and low-cost services

• Resources tailored to Black and Brown communities, where disparities often go unaddressed

We make wellness part of the conversation—right alongside the latest cuts and community updates.

Partner Organizations

We proudly collaborate with a wide range of local and regional partners who share our vision of healthier communities:

• Prince George’s County Health Department

• Local hospitals and mobile health units

• Mental health organizations and substance recovery centers

• Nonprofits focused on men’s health, veterans' health, and senior care

• Faith-based groups and neighborhood associations

Each partnership is an extension of our commitment—to care not just for our clients' appearance, but for their lives.

Educational Opportunities

At PGCBASSN, we believe that learning doesn’t stop at licensure—it’s where mastery begins. Our Professional Development program provides ongoing educational opportunities designed to sharpen skills, expand business knowledge, and keep barbers at the forefront of the industry.

We offer:

• Advanced techniques in cutting, styling, and grooming

• Business and shop management courses

• Personal branding and marketing for barbers

• Health & safety updates and regulatory compliance training

Members gain access to exclusive content, guest lectures, and digital resources tailored to today’s professional.

Workshops & Training

Hands-on learning is the cornerstone of craft. That’s why PGCBASSN curates regular in-person and virtual workshops to equip barbers with the latest tools, techniques, and technologies.

Topics include:

• Fading mastery & precision blade techniques

• Beard sculpting and skincare essentials

• Customer service and client retention

• Retail strategy: upselling products and add-on services

• Financial literacy and tax planning for barbers

Each workshop is led by industry veterans, certified educators, or licensed professionals who understand the daily demands of the shop floor.

Industry Partnerships

We believe in the power of collaboration. Through strategic partnerships with schools, suppliers, and brands, PGCBASSN opens doors for its members to access:

• Discounted tools and product lines

• Guest educator residencies and national training tours

• Scholarships and tuition assistance for advanced certifications

• Entry into regional competitions and showcases

• Vendor opportunities at expos and industry events

These alliances ensure our barbers stay competitive, connected, and continuously inspired.