OUR MISSION:
SUPPORT.
Cut it Forward is a nonprofit organization providing culturally specific hair and skin care resources for foster and adopted children of color and their caregivers.
ORIGIN STORY
MISSION: Cut it Forward is a nonprofit organization providing culturally specific hair and skin care resources for foster and adoptive children of color and their caregivers.
VISION: A future where all foster and adopted children are connected to their needs.
In 2013 our co-founders began addressing the many challenges that children of color face when it comes to their ethnic hair and skin care needs in foster and adoptive care. Through product drives, public speaking, and free hair care services, the duo dedicated countless hours to shed light on these needs and to be a resource to children and families.
After years of volunteering, planning, and advocating on behalf of these challenges, in 2014 they launched Cut it Forward and began to serve various communities under this initiative. Other community leaders joined their efforts in 2018 and together they activated as a 501 (c)3 non-profit organization to address these culturally specific needs on a larger scale.
Priding itself as an organization representative of individuals with lived experience, foster care alumni committee members of Cut it Forward know about these challenges all too well after growing up in the foster care system. Some members began advocating on behalf of these needs as young as 15 years old while they were still in care by speaking on panels, at trainings, and various events.
With an intention to create more accessible hair and skin care resources, Cut it Forward has become a nationally recognized resource to children, families, and child welfare professionals.
OUR WHY
MANY CHILDREN OF COLOR ENTER FOSTER AND ADOPTIVE CARE WITH THEIR CULTURALLY SPECIFIC HAIR AND SKIN CARE NEEDS UNMET OR MISUNDERSTOOD.
This situation poses significant challenges for these children, creating obstacles that can lead to an unfortunate disconnection from their own culture and identity. The impact of this disconnection can be profound, affecting their self-esteem, sense of belonging, and overall well-being.
At Cut it Forward, we hold a deep conviction that every child stepping into the realm of care, and every compassionate caregiver opening their heart and home, deserves unwavering support for these essential needs. Our commitment stems from understanding the profound importance of fostering a sense of pride and belonging in these young lives.
Hair and skin care are not merely superficial aspects; they are deeply intertwined with a child's sense of self. Nurturing their unique hair textures and skin tones goes beyond physical care—it's a message that their culture, heritage, and identity are embraced and valued. By addressing these specific needs, we send a powerful message that their individuality matters and that they are seen and celebrated for who they are.
OUR ORGANIZATION IS BUILT UPON THREE CORE PROGRAM CATEGORIES
Discover the life-changing impact of Cut it Forward's programs. Our commitment is unwavering, focused on meeting the distinctive challenges that children of color in foster and adoptive care, alongside their dedicated caregivers, encounter daily. Through our innovative programs, we have initiated transformative change. Click the button to dive into each program to explore how we empower, educate, and support our community.