A Fall 2018 DLab Case Study
The Groomed to Grow team formed the goal of helping to improve mental health of people in downtown Boise who have recently become homeless by helping them raise their self-esteem and confidence.
In order to build empathy for their population, the Groomed to Grow team conducted interviews with people experiencing homelessness. Through research and conversation, they found that a person’s physical appearance and their mental health are directly correlated. To explore solutions to this issue, they asked the question: How Might We provide people who are transitioning out of homelessness with a positive opportunity to change their outward physical appearance to improve their mental health, self-esteem and confidence?
After exploring different options for partnerships, they had the great opportunity to partner with the Paul Mitchell Barber School building on their history of providing haircuts to those in need. In December 2018, ten individuals from New Path Housing (a “housing-first” development focused on providing housing to previously homeless individuals) traveled to the school to receive free haircuts, styling, and scalp treatments. The team found it rewarding to help a group of individuals with a small, but important, aspect of self care that contributes to increased confidence.
Team Members: Anika B., Evan S., and Dimitri N.
