EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES ONE CUT AT A TIME.
More than a barbershop. We are a 501(c)(3) non profit dedicated to providing vital skills, healing spaces, and free grooming services to youth and the unhoused community across Los Angeles.
INVEST IN OUR MISSIONOUR STORY & DUAL PURPOSE
Carlos Spivey: Founder & CEO
The Origin: Beyond The Chair
On a hot day in Downtown Los Angeles, founder Carlos Spivey set up his clippers and a folding chair in Skid Row. He used his own resources to offer free haircuts, bottled water, and hot meals to the unhoused community.
It quickly became clear: a haircut alone wasn't enough. People needed connection, opportunity, and mentorship. At the same time, Carlos saw a gap in the industry young barbers and stylists were leaving school unprepared to thrive as professionals in the real world.
That calling addressing both the community's need for healing and the industry's need for real world excellence sparked the creation of Barber Gurus Inc.
The Dual Purpose
Founded on grassroots service, our movement solves two systemic challenges through the culture of the barbershop:
1. Community Uplift & Wellness
Provide 1,500+ free haircuts annually to youth and the unhoused.
Host year round community outreach including Back to School and Holiday events.
Facilitate Men's Village Circles for emotional and mental wellness.
Supply youth with back to school essentials and confidence.
2. Workforce Empowerment
Offer real world business training in client building, finance, and professionalism.
Provide mentorship that focuses on mindset, timing, and technical excellence.
Create a 90% employment self employment success rate for our graduates.
YOUR INVESTMENT. OUR AUTHENTIC IMPACT.
THE MEN'S VILLAGE CIRCLE
The Men's Village Circle is our grassroots initiative providing a consistent, confidential, and judgment-free safe space for young men and men of color to focus on mental health and emotional wellness. This program is the foundation of our work, ensuring our participants are resilient leaders in their families and communities.
SEE THE PROGRAM DETAILSJOIN THE MOVEMENT. YOUR ACTION IS THE IMPACT.
Donate
Your one time or recurring gift provides mentorship kits, back to school supplies, and safe healing spaces.
Partner
Align your brand with authentic community impact. We seek corporate, foundation, and grant partnerships for sustained growth.
Volunteer
We need licensed barbers, community helpers, and event staff. Your time is invaluable to our community.