Today we’d like to introduce you to Missi Kennedy.
Hi Missi, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I began my career as a hairdresser 33 years ago, and over the years I had the privilege of working with clients of all abilities. But everything changed after the birth of my fourth child, who is autistic. In 2017, I shifted my entire focus to becoming a special-needs-only hairdresser, dedicating my work to creating safe, sensory-aware experiences for families like mine.
I started by traveling to ABA clinics and driving all across the DFW area to make haircuts accessible for children who needed extra support. As the need grew, my mission did too—eventually becoming a nonprofit, Care Cuts.
Today, Care Cuts has two locations, three employees, and a continued commitment to providing sensory-safe haircuts for the community.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Over the years, my family and I have experienced significant financial hardship due to the work I do serving individuals with disabilities. Before opening my locations, I spent years driving all over the DFW area to provide sensory-safe haircuts in homes, clinics, and community spaces. The cost of gas, tolls, and constant travel added up quickly. I also purchase toys, sensory tools, and comfort items out of pocket to help each client feel safe and supported during their haircut.
In addition, I have provided many free or deeply discounted haircuts to families who could not afford them, because every child deserves access to a haircut experience that meets their needs. While this work is my purpose and passion, the financial strain on my family has been very real.
My hope is to secure grants or funding that will allow me to continue offering these essential services without the heavy financial burden, so I can keep supporting the families who rely on Care Cuts.
We’ve been impressed with Care Cuts, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Care Cuts is a nonprofit special-needs hairdressing organization dedicated to providing sensory-safe, judgment-free haircuts for individuals with disabilities of all ages. What began as my personal journey as a longtime hairdresser and a mom to a child with autism has grown into a mission-driven organization serving families across the DFW area.
I serve children and adults with autism, sensory processing disorders, ADHD, developmental disabilities, medically fragile conditions, and anyone who needs extra patience, understanding, and adaptations to feel safe during a haircut. Our work goes far beyond trimming hair—we create calm, supportive experiences tailored to each person’s sensory needs, communication style, and comfort level.
Care Cuts now operates two sensory-friendly locations, The Care Cuts Clubhouse, along with mobile services for families who cannot leave home. We use visual supports, specialized techniques, toys, desensitization strategies, and a trauma-informed approach to help clients feel secure. Many haircuts are provided at low or no cost to families in need, and we often cover expenses out of pocket—traveling long distances, paying tolls, offering comfort items, and giving free haircuts when families are struggling.
At its heart, Care Cuts is about dignity, inclusion, and meeting people exactly where they are. Every individual deserves a safe, loving space to receive care, and I’m committed to making that possible for the families I serve.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
I always enjoyed spending time with my family as a child. That is what helped to instill in me the importance of spending time with family as much as you can.
Pricing:
- Sensory Clubhouse Haircut $45
- At Home Medically Fragile Haircut $75
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.carecuts.org/
Image Credits
Endersby Productions
