Hellvira- “My name is Elvira “hellvira” and I am a Barber/stylist from Puerto Rico. I am very thankful for the opportunity that DFAM has given me. Being a survivor of different kinds of trauma and seeing DFAM’s purpose made me want to join them on this journey of helping others. They believed in my talent being a young barber with little time in the industry to be part of something bigger. Im grateful for the professional growth I’ve been acquiring ever since and all the opportunities that have come along the way. I want to see DFAM grow and I am here to be part of that process, not only helping trauma survivors but helping those who want to be part of this and offer their talent to help in a bigger cause”.

Natalie - “I'm a breast cancer survivor that hadn't touched her hair in months and I just got out of a toxic relationship. The space and stylist were exceptional. My stylist really listened to what I wanted in order to give me the exact cut I was looking for. This was DREAM for me including the massage after it all, it was like dessert.”

Rev. Craig Nash-Director of Community Engagement Chicago Cred.

Thank you so much to you and DFAM for being a incredible Blessing to Chicago CRED Women’s program and Staff. CRED staff and participants have experienced so much trauma personally and as an organization, we are seeing & feeling the physical effects of tiredness, headaches and muscle aches. You and your team helped us to release some of our stress by sharing your professional gifts as massage therapists and hair stylists. These incredible acts of kindness made everyone calm, happy and peaceful. The smile you brought to a mother of 5 whose husband was shot and killed before Christmas last year is priceless. May God continue to Bless DFAM’s healing hands!

Luz - “Wow—I was so surprised by how professional the space and stylists were. I wasn’t sure what to expect and the day exceeded my expectations. My stylist really listened to what I wanted to do with my hair and made me feel like a million dollars. I danced out of the space excited to show my children my new look. Thank you to Luis and Nicholas for putting together such a special event for us.”

Christina- “The hair event was spectacular. From the moment I arrived, Luis and Nicholas made me feel cared for. I was set up with the most amazing and attentive stylist. She took the time to listen and have a collaborative conversation about a style that would work for me. We had a great conversation about film and her experience cutting hair for Broadway shows. As if that wasn’t enough, I received the most amazing and much needed massage. I felt at ease right away, he really listened to what was bothering me and worked out some knots all while taking moments to really check in with how I was feeling. I really got to relax and that I am so thankful for. The day was incredible, I really felt significant and well cared for. What these gentlemen put together for us really hit my heart and lifted my spirits. The compassion they have and their mission to help survivors of trauma through wellness and self-care is impeccable.

Mitzi- “Please let Luis and Nicholas know how much I appreciated their generosity and thoughtfulness in planning this event for us. I was most pleased at the friendliness of both of them from the start. I thought that I was in the wrong place(smile). The service was more than I expected. The place was spotless, the atmosphere was most welcoming. I must confess, I was leery about getting my hair cut by the stylist but when I thought about Jen and Liz from First Step, I figured that I would trust this service. I must say, I was not disappointed. Marissa, my hair stylist, was warm, friendly and she made me feel confident that she was capable of cutting "black people" hair. She was outstanding. She knew what comb to use and she even twisted it after she cut it. I absolutely love my new haircut. I feel like a new woman emotionally and now physically. Thanks a million for an opportunity to connect with such a caring organization”

Wallace- Volunteer and Salon Owner -”I was introduced to DFAM through Instagram, this was the first organization I’ve seen give back in such a special way through self care. After being reached out to be apart of their event, I couldn’t pass it up. Luis made me feel welcomed and set up for success to provide haircuts and styling services to uplift survivors of trauma. A haircut and massage can make a huge impact on others more than we know, and I’m happy to work with an organization that is genuine and true to their mission.”

Jennifer Demera Lopez - Service Coordinator- Casa Julia De Burgos - “We send you all our thanks for your service to our organization. Thank you for your dedication to carry out such a beautiful project full of empathy and solidarity ... We will always be grateful to DFAM!

Frankie Esteves--Salon Owner: DFAM has visited the Luis Llorens Torres community in San Juan, Puerto Rico twice now, and we have provided our salon space for them to do cutting, massage, and motivation services. I feel that we are a family! Thank you for the great support and kindness with which you treat us, and for never forgetting about our community!

Jax Does Hair- Volunteer and Salon Owner-”Sometimes life has you come across people that inspire you to move in some positive ways. Thank you DFAM for bringing me in to your world”