By John Kirtley
YAP Clark County Assistant Director
Las Vegas, Nev. – Clark County Youth Advocate Programs (YAP™), Inc. program participants were able to learn a variety of hair styling services and shop for business attire through the organization’s Barber 101 and its Dress for Success programs thanks to the generosity of a $31,000 Social Justice Club grant from the Raiders Foundation.
YAP is a national nonprofit in 35 states and the District of Columbia that partners with youth justice, child welfare and other systems to provide services in homes, schools, and neighborhoods as an alternative to incarceration and residential care. Locally, in Las Vegas, some of the youths have experienced serious trauma, including sexual exploitation.
“The Barber 101 program is more than just an introductory course in barbering; it encompasses a holistic approach to youth development,” said YAP Clark County Assistant Director John Kirtley. “Barber 101 has created meaningful pathways for youth, helping them gain practical skills while fostering personal development. The program’s impact extends beyond technical training, as it empowers young individuals to navigate their futures with confidence and competence.”
The Barber 101 program provides practical, real-world experience and fosters a supportive learning environment for youth who are interested in the cosmetology field. The initiative is designed to provide program participants with a comprehensive introduction to the field of barbering while equipping them with essential life skills and professional development. The Dress for Success initiative provides program participants with an opportunity to obtain clothing at a local department store that they can wear for job interviews or professional events.
YAP Advocate Gordon Sullivan is a barber who helped lead the program. Lead Advocate Krishinda McLendon, a former Raider cheerleader, helped direct the Dress for Success project. McLendon also supports program participants through career coaching.
“Dress for Success not only equips youth with the necessary attire but also fosters a sense of confidence and readiness as they enter the workforce,” Kirtley said. “The event’s impact goes beyond providing clothing; it empowers young individuals to present themselves professionally and seize opportunities with greater self-assurance.”
In 2023, YAP was awarded the Social Justice Grant to support unique workforce development, educational, social, and basic needs of justice-involved youth in 2023. Through the grant, the Raiders Foundation partners with social justice nonprofits that work to reduce barriers to opportunity.
Overall grant funds awarded to YAP went toward Supported work, a program where YAP partners with local businesses who agree to provide employment for program participants with YAP providing the paycheck to youths; in addition to youths’ participation fees for school sports, local clubs, gyms, and other prosocial activities that foster healthy social outlets through peer engagement, relationship building and physical activity.
Below are some stories of youth who either participated in the Barber 101 program and/or who benefited from the Dress for Success event. YAP is using the first and last initials of program participants to protect their identities.
- Through essential workforce development resources, K.H. secured interview attire/work clothes and obtained employment, marking a significant step toward financial independence. K.H. is actively participating in the Barber 101 program but his aspirations extend beyond that. K.H. is interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity and is considering the possibility of joining the military to further his goals.
- By obtaining job interview attire, J.D. was able to gain employment which provided him with financial stability, and also gave J.D. valuable work experience; in addition to a sense of purpose. He will also be able to assist in paying off fees for court and completing probation.
- E.H. had previously attended a barbering class, showcasing his willingness to explore new opportunities. The oldest of five siblings, he enrolled in traditional school in pursuit of his diploma. Through determination and the support of various programs, E.H. has been able to balance his familial responsibilities while pursuing new opportunities and trying to get off probation. His journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of targeted support in helping young individuals transform their lives and build a brighter future.
- R.H. quickly became an integral part of the community, demonstrating his commitment by actively assisting in the setup of the Barber 101 program. Despite facing challenges, including probation, R.H. has focused on leveraging his skills and opportunities to forge a positive path forward. He is currently in high school where he excels in Advanced Placement (AP) classes and even started his own clothing resale business.
- With the support from his YAP Advocate, A.T. secured interview clothes, employment, and bus passes to facilitate his commute to work and school. He is actively engaged in the Barber 101 program, gaining valuable skills and contributing to his personal and professional development. In addition to his current endeavors, A.T. has aspirations that extend beyond barbering. He dreams of playing football and plans to obtain a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) upon graduation to expand his career opportunities. Although he is on probation, A.T. has focused on leveraging available support to stay on track and pursue his goals with determination.
For more information on YAP, visit yapinc.org.