Local group gives free haircuts, helping empower young men

One Monday each month, a local group in Elkhart offers fresh, free haircuts as a way to give back to the community.

‘My Hood Needz Me’ seeks to help empower young men and keep them out of trouble.

Tyllis Mason is a leader with the group.

“I love cutting hair. I love making people look better, look good. You could be helping somebody and you don’t even know it,” said Mason.

This is why the 24-year old Elkhart native is giving back to his community.

Taquan Norwood is a sophomore at Central High School.

“I think it’s good because a lot of people need a mentor like that,” said Norwood.

Mason, who graduated from Central High School himself, says he got the push to go to barber school because someone cared about his future, too.

“My family member, Bernard, he gave me that last push so I enrolled. Ever since then I have given my all,” said Mason.

Now Mason is relishing in the opportunity to give back to his community.

And like any good barber, he offers to listen and be a friend.

“I know a haircut can change how a person feels. Almost like being a hero,” said Mason.