See how Barcos Foundation is turning Detroit barbershops into hubs for men’s health, nonpartisan voter information and workforce training. Includes 100+ free haircuts, Shop Talks, and classes at the Michigan Beauty Show.
The mission of the Men's Health Event and "Team Waymaster" beyond event day. It's a structured way to give back to the community and honor Chris Waymaster's legacy, with grooming services.
On October 2, 2026, Legacy Barber College celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting at Briarwood Mall in Ann Arbor. Founded by Barcos Foundation Vice President Gerod Sturgis and Stephanie Sturgis, it is Washtenaw County’s first barber college and its first Black-owned college of its kind. The school also partners with the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office to train people in the county jail so they can earn certification after release. Read the story on 89.1 WEMU
The mission of the Men's Health Event and "Team Waymaster" beyond event day. It's a structured way to give back to the community and honor Chris Waymaster's legacy, with grooming services.
Modernizing Michigan’s Personal Care Trades Through collaboration with LARA and community partners, Barcos Foundation supports reforms that make barber and cosmetology licensing more accessible, equitable, and workforce‑ready. Together, we’re cutting red tape to open doors for Michigan’s next generation of professionals.
The Barcos Foundation addresses the crisis in Michigan's barbering industry following the closing of schools like the Michigan Barber School. Discover our work in legislative advocacy, vocational education, and student support to ensure a future for this essential profession.
The Heartbeat of Barcos Foundation: While our mission takes us into the community, it is the steadfast generosity of our key partners that makes every haircut possible. This card is a small token of our immense gratitude for Ken and Sari Bloom, The Waymaster Family, and David Barley.
Barcos Foundation's 2026 Dope & Data Report with statistics on workforce pipeline data, STEM data, community outreach, projected community engagement, skills mastery rate, and pipeline metrics. Includes charts and logos.
Empowering Talent, Breaking Barriers. Watch how our "Modern Workforce Village" unites employers, training providers, and the state to eliminate entry barriers through Registered Apprenticeship Programs. By offering critical wraparound support—like transportation solutions and math prep—we help high-potential candidates and forward-thinking businesses build long-term, impactful careers together.
Every Chair
Is A Front Door
Long before anyone sits down for a haircut, a barbershop is already a place people trust. We build on that trust — turning the chair into an entry point for health screenings, mentorship, and real work.
How We Work
The Barcos Model
Community Activation
Homecoming, National Apprenticeship Week, and street-level pop-ups that bring Detroit shops together in one room.
Workforce Pathway
Registered apprenticeships and a growing digital classroom that turn licensed barbers into shop owners and mentors.
Health Access
Sanctuary Sessions bring mental health pulse checks and clinical screenings into shops men already walk into.
One Path, Four Stops
From The Street Forward
Every person who comes through a Barcos shop is on the same road, whether they know it yet or not.
Walk In
A shop already known and trusted in the neighborhood.
Get Checked
A pulse check or screening, no clinic visit required.
Get Trained
A seat in an apprenticeship or the digital classroom.
Own The Chair
A licensed barber mentoring the next person through the door.
Since 2025
Our Reach So Far
Tyerra Bush, known for styling locs showcases her versatile skillset.
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Tyerra Bush, known for styling locs showcases her versatile skillset. *
Chris Goins sporting “I only like to work with friends” shirt while working with Michigan Barber School and Legacy Barber College alumni.
MISSION STATEMENT
The Barcos Foundation is committed to empowering individuals through education and workforce development in non-traditional and traditional STEM fields. By breaking down barriers, we create equitable opportunities that enable underrepresented communities and all people to thrive in high-demand careers, driving progress and innovation in society.
Educating Hair Industry Professionals.
Educating the Public.
Success Stories
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![A woman with dark curly hair, wearing glasses, earrings, and necklaces, smiling in an indoor setting.]()
A young woman from an underserved community pursued a tech career through our mentorship, now working as a software engineer.
Maria Payton
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![A young man sitting at a desk in an office with a focused expression.]()
A former cosmetology student integrated STEM skills into their profession, launching a successful salon focused on science-driven haircare solutions.
Jamie Kokot
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![A man in a white shirt sitting at a desk using a laptop, smiling at the camera. Two people are blurred in the background, reviewing documents.]()
Our apprenticeship program helped a struggling student secure a stable, high-paying job in the technology industry.
Robert Matthew
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![Side profile of a young man with dark skin, curly hair, wearing black glasses, and a casual green shirt over a white t-shirt, against a beige background.]()
A participant in our Research & Development program developed an eco-friendly haircare solution now sold nationwide.
Keith Finley
Join our mission today! Whether you volunteer, donate, or partner with us, your support creates real impact.
