Cut-A-Thon raises over $600

PLAINS – With the new school year right around the corner, those who were in need of a professional haircut made their way to the Plains school for not only a new look, but to also help a good cause.

The second annual Cut-A-Thon was held in the rear of the school, raising money for the counseling program at the school.

Josie Schuster, owner of Rockstars, put on the event, which raised over $460, with an additional $200 donation that came in well after the event was completed. For only four hours of cutting hair, Schuster was happy with the contributions.

“It is a good number,” Schuster said. “That’s over $110 an hour.”

The idea for the event came from a cut-a-thon Schuster participated in during college. The proceeds of that event went to a domestic violence organization and it inspired Schuster to give back more.

“It felt like it was such a great way to give back,” Schuster explained. “We don’t always have the funds, we don’t always have the cash to hand out, but if you can find a way to give your talents or your time, I feel like that’s easier.”

Five hairdressers took part in the event, donating their time and skills.

Kristi Scott, marketing director for Ordelheide Dental, was on hand with her scissors to give back to the community. Scott did hair for 16 years and has kept her license current and active. Although she no longer focuses on doing hair, she was ready to pick up her scissors and help in any way she could.

“When I told her I was doing this she asked if Ordelheide could be a part of this in any way,” Schuster said.

Ordelheide Dental helped sponsor the event put on by Rockstars.

Not only have local members of the community embraced the event, giving donations for the cause, but people from out of the area have also taken part.

“I cut one guy’s hair that was from Sandpoint. He happened to see the sign and thought it was an awesome way to help,” Schuster said.

The goal for years to come is to target more people who may not be from the area. By continually growing the event, the hope is more money can be donated to the counseling program.

The Cut-A-Thon will be back in full swing next year, but hopefully at a more visible location.

“I would like it to be on Main Street,” Schuster said. “Some place where you just get a lot of drive by traffic.”

The counseling program uses the funds to purchase coats and winter gear for kids who may not be able to afford them. Not only will the money benefit kids who may be less fortunate, the haircuts also benefit some kids who may have never had their hair cut by a professional.

“I feel like back to school is an expensive time for people and sometimes haircuts get pushed to the side,” Schuster said. “A haircut can change how a person feels – whether they feel good about themselves or not.”

The event has also been used as a way to bring local hairdressers together to network and to give back in a creative way.