Today we’d like to introduce you to Vernon Jackson.
Hi Vernon, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Certainly! Here’s a shorter, more concise version of your story:
My story is one of being a reluctant leader. In high school, I was often asked what I wanted to do, but I didn’t have an answer. I enjoyed things like drawing, speaking, and poetry, but I didn’t see how they could be part of a career or income. For a long time, I struggled with the idea of getting paid for what I loved, balancing survival with my natural gifts.
I never forecasted my future; I just focused on navigating each moment. People around me saw potential in my talents—teachers, mentors, friends—and guided me into different paths like cosmetology, spoken word, and volunteering with children. I enjoyed these activities but kept them separate from my work, believing love and passion shouldn’t mix with business.
Eventually, I realized I wanted to spend more time doing what I loved and getting paid for it. Around 27, I found a balance—poetry, speaking, and cutting hair—living as a successful self-employed artist. But I still felt unfulfilled, like something was missing.
As I approached 30, I prayed during a haircut, questioning if this was all I was meant to do long-term. I hated just going through the motions of cutting hair — it was tedious, demanding, and I lacked patience, especially with children and those with special needs. Despite loving children and volunteering with them, I struggled with the business side of cutting kids’ hair, especially when managing special needs without prior info or support.
One day, a friend mentioned she might buy her shop, and reluctantly, I agreed to buy it too. Two years later, an idea began to form: creating a dedicated space and time to serve children with special needs. The “Gifted” event was born—a monthly haircut session for children with unique needs, giving them and their families a moment of normalcy and joy.
What started with three families has grown to nearly 65 children a month, raising over $100k in donations, providing free haircuts, and creating a space where families feel loved, supported, and appreciated.
Today, I realize I’m not just cutting hair—I’m making a difference. I’ve moved from reluctant leadership to leaning in fully, embracing my gift of patience, acceptance, and love. The Gifted event has softened hearts, reshaped minds, and shown me how powerful it is to love others just as they are.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. There have been many struggles along the way. Early on, I wrestled with the idea of turning my passions—like drawing, speaking, and poetry—into a way to earn a living. I also struggled with the belief that love and passion shouldn’t be mixed with business, which made it hard to align my gifts with a sustainable career.
As I tried to find my path, I faced internal doubts and uncertainty about forecasting the future or having a clear plan. Professionally, working with children, especially those with special needs, was challenging—dealing with unpredictable schedules, managing my impatience, and handling difficult moments with parents and children. The lack of prior information about children’s needs often made my work frustrating and stressful.
Additionally, I had to overcome fears of leadership and stepping into ownership roles, which wasn’t part of my original plan. Balancing my desire to serve with the business demands, managing expectations, and navigating my own doubts were all ongoing struggles. But through these challenges, I learned to lean in, grow stronger, and turn obstacles into opportunities for impact and purpose.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a passionate barber, speaker, and advocate dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children with special needs and their families. I specialize in providing high-quality haircuts, but more importantly, I create a safe, loving space where children can feel comfortable and accepted. I’m known for my patience, compassion, and ability to connect deeply with those I serve.
What I’m most proud of is founding The Gifted Event—a monthly initiative that offers free haircuts to children with special needs. This program has grown from just a few families to nearly 65 plus children each month, raising over $400,000 in donations, and transforming the way families experience and access care for their children. Seeing the joy, relief, and gratitude on their faces is truly priceless.
What sets me apart is my genuine love and acceptance for each child just as they are, combined with my commitment to creating a positive, empowering experience. I believe that love, patience, and intentionality can soften hearts and break barriers. My ability to blend my artistic talents with my heart for service, along with my willingness to lean into leadership despite initial reluctance, makes my journey and work uniquely impactful.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Watching Goonies on the floor of our apartment eating a bowl of cereal
Pricing:
- Each child’s services ranges for $75 to $145 for haircut, toys and T shirt
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Thegiftedevent.Com
- Instagram: Thebest1period
- Youtube: Thegiftedeventofficial
