The energy was undeniably in the air. The day after Bad Bunny’s electrifying Super Bowl halftime show, Chicago was buzzing — and on Monday, February 9th, Don’t Forget About Me (DFAM) channeled that collective spirit into something truly meaningful. “Create to Heal” is a service-first, restorative community activation led by DFAM in partnership with ESSENCE, the premiere lifestyle brand for African American women, and MYAVANA, the pioneering beauty and technology company for textured hair. “Create to Heal” transforms trusted salon spaces into affirming sanctuaries where women and men navigating trauma, transition, or economic disruption receive personalized beauty and wellness services.
For many of DFAM’s participants, simply stepping outside in recent weeks has felt impossible. Fear of ICE raids have weighed heavily on them, with many confined to their homes, isolated and anxious. On this day, they were welcomed into a warm, affirming, and safe environment — a sanctuary of healing, care, and community. Thrive Hair Collective generously donated their beautiful salon space so our volunteer stylists and massage therapists could “Create to Heal.”
Participants were treated to a personalized hair analysis from DFAM’s new partner, MYAVANA. With a deep understanding of the unique hair care challenges women of color and women with textured hair face, MYAVANA offered our participants a new and exciting service.
| None of DFAM’s work would be possible without the incredible generosity and dedication of our community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to:Thrive Hair Collective for donating their wonderful space. Our amazing volunteers for donating their time and expertise.Our generous donors whose continued support makes events like this possible. DONATE |
| No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. |