GREENSBORO, N.C. – U.S. Representative Mark Walker (NC-06) today honored Rick Morton of Greensboro as the Sixth District Community Hero of the Month for September 2016.

Each month, Congressman Walker honors a constituent, business, or organization in his district for displaying extraordinary acts of service and for making a difference in their community.

Mr. Morton works at Heads Up Barber and Beauty in Greensboro, but behind the barber chair, he has been providing free haircuts and so much more to our community’s young people for the past 2 years through his organization, “Heads up For Our Youth.”

Inspired by a friend who volunteered at a local middle school, Mr. Morton decided to donate his time and talents by providing haircuts to well deserving youth in the community.  He quickly saw how this simple gesture could make young people feel more confident, and in turn, do better in school.

If there is one thing Rick wants people to know about the work that the organization does, it’s that it’s bigger than one person.  He credits the talented team of barbers he works with who are consistently planning events and showing up to serve youth and help them thrive. 

The program provides transportation, a haircut, lunch, and lessons on grooming and presenting themselves professionally, at no cost to the youth.  The organization has now expanded to three different initiatives, offering a financial literacy course and a basketball clinic as well. 

“I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize Rick Morton as a leader in our community and a positive role model for our youth,” Walker said.  “He is the perfect example of how someone can provide a simple service to a young person and actually change the trajectory of their life. Because of Mr. Morton’s willingness to use his time to help others, these youth are not only better poised to succeed at school, but also better poised to succeed in all of life’s ventures.”

Walker presented Morton with a certificate and a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol during a visit to Heads Up Barber and Beauty.