What’s the cost of a workshop?

Our workshops are designed to be accessible while still providing high-quality, culturally relevant education and materials.Pricing varies based on the program type, number of participants, and travel distance. On average families and agencies pay:Intro to Curl Care: Often offered to our community for FREEYouth Skill-Building Workshops: $25 per participantCaregiver Skill-Building Workshops: $25 per participantYouth Enrichment Programs: $300+ per participant1:1 Family Skill-Building Workshops: $50 per sessionHealthy Hair Appointments: $50+ per sessionHair Care Guidebooks: $9.99 digital | $25 printedHair Care Kits: $25 to $100 per kitCost includes facilitation, all learning materials, certificate of completion, and access to ongoing mentorship. Each participant may have to option to include a personalized starter kit and digital/physical learning guides.

What is included with each workshop?

Every workshop goes beyond a single class. Participants may receive:Structured educationHands-on learningA starter kit with essential tools and hair care itemsA learning packet for continued learning at homeA certificate of completion to acknowledge their progressAccess to mentorship for ongoing support and encouragementOur workshops are interactive, trauma-informed, and age-appropriate, ensuring youth and caregivers leave with both practical skills and cultural confidence.

How do I book a workshop for my youth, family, or organization?

Booking is easy! Simply reach out via our website contact form or email us directly at curlsandcaregivers@gmail.com. We’ll guide you through available workshop dates, program options, and any funding or sponsorship opportunities to fit your needs. Once confirmed, you’ll receive all materials, instructions, and pre-workshop support to ensure a seamless experience.

How are these programs funded?

Many agencies fund our programs through CSA (Children’s Services Act) allocations, particularly for independent living facilities, group homes, and foster care programs. We work closely with agencies to make the funding and partnership process seamless, ensuring that youth and caregivers gain access to high-quality, culturally responsive workshops without administrative burden. For families, schools, or agencies not using CSA funds, workshops can be paid for directly. Additionally, we actively pursue grants, community partnerships, and sponsorships to expand access for organizations and youth with limited budgets. Sponsorships help fill critical gaps that traditional funding may miss: Covering workshop materials, starter kits, and printed guides Providing 1:1 or group skill-building sessions Supporting youth entrepreneurial training and enrichment programs Ensuring that every participant has access to culturally affirming hair care education Through these partnerships, your organization or community group can sponsor youth participation, donate supplies, or support ongoing mentorship, helping us deliver impactful programs while keeping costs manageable for families and agencies.

Do you travel to facilities, or are workshops only local?

We are based in Richmond, VA, and we offer travel options for in-person workshops. We also offer virtual sessions for agencies outside of range, with starter kits shipped directly to your organization. We have designated spaces available for local workshops. For travel requests, all we ask is that the hosting facility provides an appropriate space (such as a private salon, classroom, meeting room, or activity hall) with seating and a projector if available. We bring everything else.

Do you provide stylists to do hair services?

Yes. In addition to workshops, we have a growing network of beauty and wellness professionals who can provide on-site services for youth in adoptive care, foster care, group homes, and independent living programs. This ensures youth not only receive education but also consistent, culturally competent care when needed.

Can your workshops accommodate youth with autism or other special needs?

Our workshops are trauma-informed, sensory-friendly, and flexible to meet the needs of diverse learners. We are also committed to ongoing training so that youth with autism, sensory sensitivities, or other unique needs are supported in a respectful, empowering environment.

Natural Hair Literacy | Youth & Caregiver Skill Building

Your Trusted Partner in Curl Education
Serving Youth & Caregivers Across Virginia & North Carolina

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We provide culturally responsive workshops and programs serving
youth, caregivers, and professionals. We focus on strengthening identity, building confidence, and supporting pathways to stability and independence.

280+

YOUTH

IMPACTED

140+

FAMILIES

SUPPORTED

35+

WORKSHOPS

HOSTED

10+

COMMUNITY

PARTNERS

Join us for Hands-On Learning opportunities. Register here.

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WHO WE ARE

At Curls and Caregivers, we honor the beauty, strength, and cultural legacy held within every curl.

We partner with families, schools, foster care agencies, Departments of Social Services, Parks & Recreation programs, youth organizations, and community leaders to deliver hands-on, culturally responsive hair care education that supports and uplifts natural haired youth with a dedicated focus on youth in foster care, adoptive care, independent living programs, group homes, and underserved communities.

Our mission is simple but powerful:
Build confidence. Preserve culture. Pass on life skills.

WHO WE SERVE

Youth in foster care, group homes, youth programs and underserved communities who are learning to embrace their natural beauty, cultural identity, and personal confidence.

Parents, caseworkers, mentors, and direct support staff who desire to gain practical natural hair care skills while fostering cultural awareness, self-esteem, and positive relationships with the youth they support.

WHY THIS MATTERS

For Black and biracial kids, care is
more than grooming. It’s identity, heritage, and self-expression.

We address a common service gap.

Our programs create safe, engaging spaces where youth and caregivers learn hands-on skills, share stories, and celebrate Black hair culture — while building tools for independence, confidence, and future opportunity.

Meet Our Founder

Ty Johnson is a mother, social work advocate, Licensed Cosmetologist, Licensed Cosmetology Instructor, Certified Head Spa Technician and Natural Hair Care Specialist with over a decade of experience supporting youth and families with textured hair. As the Founder of Curls and Caregivers, Ty is bridging the gap between professional hair care and accessible, culturally affirming natural hair education for underserved communities.

Ty's work blends practical holistic hair and wellness education with trauma-informed, culturally affirming practices designed to help caregivers approach hair care with confidence, patience, and compassion. She understands that hair is more than maintenance. It is identity, connection, and self-worth.

Over the years, Ty has worked alongside biological parents, foster parents, local social service agencies and community partners to equip youth and the caregivers who support them with the knowledge and tools to build healthy routines while nurturing children's confidence and cultural pride. Her programs focus on strengthening community relationships, promoting healthy hair and lifestyle practices, and affirming every child’s natural beauty.

Ty believes that when youth and caregivers are empowered with knowledge and supported with the right tools, children thrive. Not only in their hair journeys, but in how they see themselves. Through education, access, and advocacy, Ty is committed to ensuring that every child feels seen, supported, and proud of their curls.

Ty is committed to being Your Trusted Partner in Curl Education.

Empowering culture connection, building life skills, and strengthening community — one curl at a time.

Learn More About Ty Johnson

Understanding
Textured Hair

Natural hair care starts with understanding texture — not guessing.

Textured hair has different needs based on

curl pattern, density, and moisture retention.

Needs creamy moisture, protection, and patience.

Thrives with routine-based care and low manipulation.

Needs consistent moisture and gentle detangling.

Prone to dryness without proper care.

Needs lightweight moisture only.

Benefits from gentle cleansing and hydration.

What all textured hair needs:

Gentle detangling (detangle brushes or wide tooth combs)
Hydration (water inside & out)
Moisture (water-based moisturizing products)
Sealants (oils and butters after hydration and moisturizing)
Protection (satin bonnets, scarves, or pillowcases)
Consistent Care (practical routines & love)

These basics reduce breakage, frustration, and daily stress.

When youth and caregivers understand hair texture:

Grooming becomes calmer and more predictable
Confidence and self-image improve
Care routines support emotional regulation
Cultural identity is affirmed, not questioned

Free Youth Natural Hair Care Guidebook

Free Caregivers Natural Hair Care Guidebook

Amazon List of Natural Hair Care Products

WHY
COMMUNITIES
CHOOSE US

When Black and biracial youth in foster care, group homes, or underserved communities DON'T learn culturally relevant hair care principles:

1. Identity and Confidence Suffer: Youth feel disconnected from their culture and personal identity, which can affect self-esteem and social interactions.

2. Increased Stress and Emotional Challenges: Neglect or misunderstanding of natural hair can lead to shame, bullying, and internalized self-doubt.

3. Missed Life Skills Opportunities: Youth lose early chances to develop self-care routines that promote independence and personal responsibility that last a lifetime.

4. Reduced Caregiver Engagement: Without culturally informed guidance, caregivers may struggle to support youth confidently, impacting placement stability and emotional bonding.

5. Long-Term Wellness Habits Neglected: Poor hair care routines can reinforce negative perceptions about personal wellness, hygiene, and self-value.

6. Economic and Skill-Building Opportunities Lost: Youth miss exposure to entrepreneurial skills, career pathways, and vocational training tied to natural hair care and wellness.

7. Isolation in Placements and Communities: Youth may feel alone in their experience, impacting mental health, social development, and connectedness.

Curls and Caregivers programs directly address these gaps through trauma-informed, culturally responsive workshops that:

Build confidence, pride, and identity affirmation
Strengthen caregiver-youth relationships and trust
Teach life skills and healthy self-care routines
Offer early skill development for future economic and professional opportunities
Provide measurable, documented outcomes that support agency and CSA service planning

BRING OUR PROGRAMS TO YOUR COMMUNITY

Cultural Identity and Foster Youth

Studies show that youth in foster care often face challenges with shifting cultural identity, which can negatively affect self-esteem, emotional regulation, and overall psychological wellbeing.

Research also demonstrates that a strong cultural identity builds resilience, supports academic success, and promotes better emotional and social health — laying a foundation for confidence, self-efficacy, and long-term stability.

OUR CORE PROGRAMS

INTRO TO CURL CARE (For Youth & Caregivers)

Beginner friendly sessions teaching the basics of natural hair care.

Family support learning session
Feel more confident, informed, and supported
Wash day basics for healthy, stress-free routines
Simple routines youth and adults can follow at home
A supportive, judgment-free learning environment

HAIR LITERACY PROJECT (For Youth & Caregivers)

A confidence building natural hair education experience.

Personalized education for youth and families
Professional photography celebrating natural hair and identity
Build confidence, independence, and healthy hair habits
Positive representation for youth to celebrate and remember

CURL CONFIDENCE (For Youth, Ages 5-21)

Youth focused natural hair literacy sessions for boys and girls.

Age specific learning to develop healthy, daily habits
Gain the knowledge needed for healthy, consistent hair care
Hands-on training with learning materials included
Passing down traditions that honor Black hair care history
Builds pride, self-care routines, and cultural identity

SKILLED HANDS (For Youth, Ages 9–21)

Natural hair and financial literacy enrichment program for youth.

Hands-on proficiency in basic hair care
Professionalism, pricing strategies and client communication
Gain business skills for income readiness and independence
Learn marketable skills to generate income immediately

ROOTED IN CARE (For Caregivers)

Training for all caregivers, caseworkers, and support staff.

Wash day walkthroughs and product education
Live and hands-on protective styling demos
Reducing trauma caused by lack of culturally responsive care
Builds trust and connection between youth and caregivers
Strengthens cultural sensitivity and grooming confidence

We deliver in person programs, virtual sessions, supply starter kits, provide digital and physical resources, and offer ongoing mentorship to youth and families. All tailored to family and agency goals, participant age groups, and community needs.

Curls and Caregivers provides non-clinical, educational, and skill-building services centered on natural hair literacy, grooming routines, caregiver education, and youth life skills.

For more information regarding our programs or booking, please email curlsandcaregivers@gmail.com.

VIEW OUR UPCOMING PROGRAMS

Every Youth and Caregiver Deserves...

Curl Care
Starter Kits

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Personalized for Your Curls

Mini Sets & Full Starter Kits Available

Foundational Hair Care Practices

Curl Care
Guidebooks

Youth & Caregiver Versions Available

Our Program
Impact

✓ Hair Care Literacy & Grooming Support: Addresses daily care stressors and knowledge gaps in placements.

✓ Cultural Confidence & Identity Pride: Equip youth and caregivers with the knowledge and tools to celebrate, maintain, and take pride in Black and textured hair — reinforcing cultural identity and self-esteem.

✓ Trauma-Informed Service Delivery: Delivered using trauma-aware, youth-centered approaches that prioritize emotional safety, choice, and dignity during grooming and learning activities.

✓ Improve Youth Daily Functioning: Strengthen hygiene, routine adherence, and emotional regulation skills.

✓ Essential Life Skills: Teach practical, hands-on natural hair care techniques that youth can use daily for personal care and as a stepping stone toward economic independence.

✓ Support Independent Living Outcomes: Builds routine-based self-care, responsibility, and confidence for youth.

✓ Economic Empowerment Pathways: For older youth, provide training that can translate directly into income-generating opportunities, from braiding and twisting to client communication and pricing services.

✓ Stronger Caregiver–Youth Bonds: Reduce burnout and give caregivers the skills, confidence, and cultural understanding to turn hair care into a positive, trust-building experience.

✓ Reduce Placement Disruption: Minimize grooming-related conflicts and embarrassment, supporting smoother placements.

✓ Culturally Competent Service Delivery: Support agencies in meeting diversity, equity, and inclusion goals by integrating culturally specific hair care education into their programming.

✓ Measurable & Documented Outcomes: Each program includes observable, trackable outcome indicators that support CSA documentation, service planning, and program evaluation.

✓ Ongoing Mentorship & Support: Provide access to post-workshop mentorship, digital learning resources, and follow-up sessions to ensure long-term impact beyond the classroom.

✓ Customizable Programming: Offer flexible workshop formats and series options tailored to agency goals, participant age groups, and community needs.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CURLS & CAREGIVERS

ROOTED IN CARE
1:1 WORKSHOP

Jill is hands-on learning the
fundamentals of shampooing
natural hair.

Jill, Ty, and Sophia taking a
selfie break during an
in-person 1:1 Caregiver
Workshop.

SOPHIA, FORMER
FOSTER YOUTH

My mentor, Jill, not only got a better understanding of my hair but this experience also strengthened our bond. I gained an experience I will cherish forever. Throughout the process, Ty was an amazing instructor and embraced us with an open mind and open arms.

JILL, MENTOR &
CAREGIVER

I am grateful for the support Ty gave me. I am a white caregiver of Black youth. I didn't have prior experience caring for natural hair until Ty did a hands-on workshop for us, explaining each step of the process and coaching me through it. She is a wonderful, patient, supportive teacher.

BECOME A YOUTH SPONSOR

OUR EDUCATION PARTNERS

ORGANIZATIONS WE'VE PARTNERED WITH:

CRAFFT at Virginia Commonwealth University
Henrico County Public Schools
Henrico County Department of Social Services
Chesterfield County Department of Social Services
Charlottesville Department of Social Services
Caroline County Department of Social Services
Wake County Department of Social Services
City of Roanoke Department of Social Services
Shineforth Project LIFE (Virginia DSS)
Friends of Foster Care (Central VA)
Girls For A Change (N. Chesterfield, VA)
Crosspoint Church (Lynchburg, VA)

How to Become a Community Partner

FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS

01
Our workshops are designed to be accessible while still providing high-quality, culturally relevant education and materials.Pricing varies based on the program type, number of participants, and travel distance. On average families and agencies pay:Intro to Curl Care: Often offered to our community for FREEYouth Skill-Building Workshops: $25 per participantCaregiver Skill-Building Workshops: $25 per participantYouth Enrichment Programs: $300+ per participant1:1 Family Skill-Building Workshops: $50 per sessionHealthy Hair Appointments: $50+ per sessionHair Care Guidebooks: $9.99 digital | $25 printedHair Care Kits: $25 to $100 per kitCost includes facilitation, all learning materials, certificate of completion, and access to ongoing mentorship. Each participant may have to option to include a personalized starter kit and digital/physical learning guides.
02
Every workshop goes beyond a single class. Participants may receive:Structured educationHands-on learningA starter kit with essential tools and hair care itemsA learning packet for continued learning at homeA certificate of completion to acknowledge their progressAccess to mentorship for ongoing support and encouragementOur workshops are interactive, trauma-informed, and age-appropriate, ensuring youth and caregivers leave with both practical skills and cultural confidence.
03
04
Many agencies fund our programs through CSA (Children’s Services Act) allocations, particularly for independent living facilities, group homes, and foster care programs. We work closely with agencies to make the funding and partnership process seamless, ensuring that youth and caregivers gain access to high-quality, culturally responsive workshops without administrative burden. For families, schools, or agencies not using CSA funds, workshops can be paid for directly. Additionally, we actively pursue grants, community partnerships, and sponsorships to expand access for organizations and youth with limited budgets. Sponsorships help fill critical gaps that traditional funding may miss: Covering workshop materials, starter kits, and printed guides Providing 1:1 or group skill-building sessions Supporting youth entrepreneurial training and enrichment programs Ensuring that every participant has access to culturally affirming hair care education Through these partnerships, your organization or community group can sponsor youth participation, donate supplies, or support ongoing mentorship, helping us deliver impactful programs while keeping costs manageable for families and agencies.
05
We are based in Richmond, VA, and we offer travel options for in-person workshops. We also offer virtual sessions for agencies outside of range, with starter kits shipped directly to your organization. We have designated spaces available for local workshops. For travel requests, all we ask is that the hosting facility provides an appropriate space (such as a private salon, classroom, meeting room, or activity hall) with seating and a projector if available. We bring everything else.
06
07

Press, Features,
and Media Coverage

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to Your Community

Let’s make culture and confidence part of your programming.

Contact us to book a workshop or request a partnership.

WE'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU

CURLSANDCAREGIVERS@GMAIL.COM

Your Trusted Partner in Curl Education Serving Youth & Caregivers Across Virginia & North Carolina