Not many people volunteer at their doctor’s offices, but Wallace Wilson makes it a point to.
A professional barber and Ward 8 resident, Wallace came to Community of Hope on a friend’s recommendation. “He told me that I could get great care. That’s exactly what was missing from our neighborhood!”
Wallace walked the few blocks to our Conway Health and Resource Center and was completely blown away by the warmth and friendliness of our staff. As someone who is generally in good health, he was looking for something beyond a visit to the doctor: he wanted to feel cared for.
“You can get a physical anywhere. But at Community of Hope, you get an experience – quick, professional service from people with big hearts that truly want to make a difference in the community.”
Wallace was so impressed with his medical care at Community of Hope that he also switched his dental care to us too. But he was inspired by Community of Hope’s mission and wanted to get involved.
When he heard about our Back-to-School Bash – where we partner with the Bellevue library next door to provide new backpacks, school supplies, and health and educational resources to the community – “it was like a lightbulb went off.”
“How do I give back? Use my 22 years of experience and cut kids’ hair!”
Wallace became more than just a patient that day. He is now a Community of Hope volunteer too!
With shears, razors and combs in hand, Wallace and a co-worker came to get kids ready for the new school year.
“It’s important for kids to get a good start and a haircut does just that,” he said.
Giving out more than ten haircuts to elementary through high-school aged students that day, “I feel like I played a small part in their success,” he excitedly proclaimed.
In 2016, he returned. The Barbershop – as the kids now call it – was in full-operation at our 4th Annual Bellevue Back-to-School Bash. This time, with a third barber in tow.
Not only did they give free haircuts, but they pumped kids up for school. “Remember these two things,” he would tell them, “respect your teachers and work hard.”
When asked how long he’ll be a patient and volunteer, Wallace responded with:
“My heart is set on helping my community. This is where I live and get my care. I am going to give back all that I can for as long as I can.”
