Empower Youth: Donate to LaMica's Classes

My name is LaMica (Mica_Braids) by most, and I am a licensed braider and instructor here in Tampa, FL. I've been in the industry for over 19 years, and I opened up a salon here in a historical location in Tampa, Urban Lux, formerly known as Tampa Park, about 3 years ago.

In my most recent years, I have been providing volunteer and mentoring services to the youth. My passion has led me from behind the chair, and I am hoping to move forward in my journey as an instructor. My goal is to service more in the community with my braiding and entrepreneurial program, but I'm having a hard time with funding. I'm in the process of changing my business over to a non-profit organization to help with the cost of materials going forward. I have applied for various grants, and I have had no luck due to the nature of my business.

I put all of my earnings into my salon, and I'm currently in a position where I can lose everything I have been working for.

I haven't been able to get any support, and I've exhausted all of my funds. I really opened the salon for a good purpose, but I haven't been able to do exactly what I wanted to do because I've been working to keep the doors open. I am working 7 days a week with no staff, which I am grateful for, but as soon as a slow season comes, I'm behind. I'm hoping to get a fundraiser going to get people to sign up for classes and keep the doors open as well as help the community. Each donation in the amount of $300 or more will secure a space for a braiding class available at a later date. I have hosted group and individual classes, but the economy hasn't improved since COVID, and teaching has been at a standstill. I believe if people donate to the classes, it will be more accessible for those who really need the information. Charging for the classes hasn't been effective because those who can use it and need it most can't afford it. I'm hoping to bring awareness and also to show there are other ways to be successful using talent and hard work. I am a believer in Christ, so if this is the end of my chapter in this location, I feel great knowing I did everything in my power to accomplish my dream of being a salon owner.