About
Who is the founder?
Arianna Howell is a licensed natural hairstylist in Memphis,TN who has been in the beauty industry for over 7 years with a passion for beauty and outreach stretching over a decade at only 23 years old.
After experiencing homelessness as a child and being without a job in early adulthood due to poverty, her self-esteem took the biggest hit due to her inability to provide for herself and keep her physical appearance. She also couldn’t afford hair products to keep her presentable for interviews. Once stable she started The Haircare Exchange Project not only to provide hair products to those in need but to advocate for women/men experiencing the same as she has.
What is The Haircare Project?
The Haircare Project is a non-profit organization created to address haircare insecurity in the black community. We aim to provide free haircare products, tools, and services to children's organizations, battered women, the homeless community, and families and individuals facing poverty.
Why was The Haircare Project started?
The project's origin dates back to 2022 when our founder faced a challenging period that included housing issues and job loss. This problematic time led to concerns about her hair's health, exacerbated by chemicals from a hair color she couldn't maintain, causing breakage. At that point, she couldn't afford the haircare products she needed due to her becoming homeless again and facing poverty. The idea for HP was born from this experience.
We believe all women and men can embrace who they are,
can define their future, and can change the world.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide essential haircare products, tools, and services to battered women, children’s organizations, homeless shelters, and families and individuals facing poverty. We believe that self-care is a vital part of self-worth, and through compassion and community support, we aim to restore confidence, promote healing, and uplift those on their journey to a brighter future.
Our Vision
To create a world where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the care and resources they need to feel confident, empowered, and valued. We envision a future where self-care becomes a stepping stone to self-love, dignity, and new beginnings for those overcoming hardship.