RALEIGH, N.C.—Just one big idea can positively impact a local nonprofit. In this case, how about raising money, one haircut at a time? That creative thinking was acknowledged recently by The Arc of Wake County as they awarded their Susan Reed Distinguished Service Award to Blo, a popular salon in Brier Creek. Accepting on behalf of Blo were co-founders Bryan and Silvia Nunes. Earlier this year, their staff held its second annual "24-Hour Cut-A-Thon" to benefit The Arc of Wake County. Blo donated all proceeds, including haircut services, retail sales and gratuities, making a stylish contribution of $13,200 to The Arc of Wake County.

"I am so impressed with Bryan and Silvia. They have helped their stylists learn what it means to give back and be part of their community," said Steve Strom, executive director of The Arc of Wake County. "By encouraging their staff to look for community organizations such as The Arc to support with their time and talents, these young stylists become more engaged in making Wake County a better place to live."

The Blo staff researched and selected The Arc of Wake County because of its mission as a nonprofit agency dedicated to working with individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. The organization has been serving families in Wake County since 1954, helping them to achieve their life goals.

"I'm proud of the entire Blo team for their dedication to researching and selecting The Arc of Wake County, an organization with such a tremendous mission," said Bryan Nunes, Blo co-owner. "I'm also grateful that our staff is recognized for their service to the community, because supporting local organizations is important to each of them."

This type of creativity has helped Blo garner accolades in the fashion and style industries, including the industry's highest honor, a Global Salon Business Award. On multiple occasions, Blo has hosted photo shoots for the Passion Magazine Men's Style Book as well as its Women's Haircolor Book, showcasing the latest hairstyle trends. Blo also has been named a Salon Today Top 20 "Salon of the Year" nationally and to the Salon Today 200 in each of the past three years for being among the nation's fastest-growing.

Located at Brier Creek Commons in Raleigh, N.C., Blo is home to a talented design team where egos are passé and replaced with "A Lot of Hot Hair." Blo has a distinctive metropolitan appeal without the pretension typically associated with upscale salons. Appointments can be booked online or by calling (919) 484-8600.

The Arc of Wake County partners with people with developmental disabilities and their families to help them achieve their life goals. The local chapter of this national organization was formed in 1954 to provide advocacy, awareness and community education. Its advocacy efforts helped establish the first classes for children with developmental disabilities in the public schools, special programs in various churches, residential and employment programs, recreational opportunities and respite care services.

Related Links

1. http://www.justblo.com
2. http://www.arcwake.org