Hair Innovations’ owner designs, makes, and fits wigs for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The service is provided free of charge, and patients are often served at their location (home, hospital). The business also offers support to local Boys and Girls Clubs, and has become a model for community engagement.
Innovation
Cindy Kropp, the owner of Hair Innovations in Hudson, Ohio, has taken many innovative steps in her business over the years. As a service to customers as well as a way to generate additional revenue, she was among the first to sell products at retail price in her salon. She also designated one day per week to provide haircuts for men, and added spa facilities to the salon before such services were common. Several years ago, Ms. Kropp began to visit the oncology wards in local hospitals to provide complementary hair and make-up services to cancer patients. She added wig-making to the services she provides, and now does this work free of charge for patients undergoing chemotherapy. She calls at hospitals, nursing homes and the private homes of people in need of her services.
Impact
Enhancing a patient’s physical appearance can boost morale and, perhaps, contribute to recovery. The good work she has done in the local community has been recognized (she was recently named Stow Volunteer of the Year); this recognition has benefited her business financially. In addition to the work Hair Innovations has done with adults, the business is involved with the local Boys and Girls Clubs. The salon has sponsored holiday parties for children, and Ms. Kropp’s staff has made a significant donation, in her honor, to assist local residents with housing needs. On many levels, Hair Innovations and its owner and employees are making an impact on a very personal level in their community.
Inspiration
Cindy Kropp developed her business from the ground up. In addition to working hard to make a living, she is deeply committed to making positive contributions to her community. She has often identified a need before other people do, and has stepped in to fill it. She seeks out challenges and difficult situations, and is known as an “ethical risk taker.” Her positive attitude and actions directed toward helping others have gained the attention of the public, resulting in an enhanced business profile for Hair Innovations.
The World Inquiry editorial team edited this profile from the original submission of the interviewer or other source. The views expressed do not necessarily represent Case Western Reserve University, the Weatherhead School of Management or the Center for Business as an Agent of World Benefit. More >>
