💇♀️ Cosmetology Students Give Back: A Day of Beauty and Compassion
The Salon Professional Academy Hot Springs, formerly YLF Cosmetology Institute, recently opened its doors to residents from local nursing homes, offering complimentary haircuts and styling at its Central Avenue campus. The initiative, led by CEO Adam Casteel, reflects a deep commitment to community care and student development.
“I’ve always wanted to give back to Hot Springs,” said Casteel. “We visited nursing homes, handed out gift cards, and brought residents to our academy for services at a fraction of the standard cost. It’s a chance to get them out of the facility, pamper them, and teach our students the value of giving back.”
This isn’t Casteel’s first outreach effort—he previously hosted similar events at his former business, You Look Fabulous Salon. But with more time and resources now available, he’s expanding the academy’s impact.
Since rebranding in July under the Salon Professional Education Company franchise, the academy has gained access to a robust student-centered education model. Casteel, who earned his cosmetology license 40 years ago, emphasized that empowering students has always been his guiding principle.
“We teach students to be successful. It’s the best model I’ve found, and everything is designed to help them thrive.”
So far, the academy has graduated around 15 students, with 85–90% securing immediate employment—a statistic Casteel calls “euphoric.”
“Watching students learn and succeed is the most rewarding part. It’s fulfilling a vision and giving our community the very best.”
The academy will host another complimentary service day for nursing home residents on Monday, August 18, and will also sponsor an upcoming Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce bingo night.