Charitable Giving

In the wake of a national disaster, Teddie found a way to use his business success to help those in need.
 

Salon Donates Day of Services

October 11, 2001 • Pioneer Press Newspaper

Don't wait for the other guy. When you see a need, do something yourself.

That attitude inspired Teddie Kossof of Teddie Kossof's Salon Spa and Wellness Center in Northfield to decide to donate all fees for haircutting, coloring and styling Sunday to disaster relief in New York City and Washington, D.C. in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

I think you have to help others. You can't wait for the other guy.

"How did I get the idea?" Kossof mused. "It came from my heart. When I talked to my people about it, between 15 and 20 of them stepped right up to the plate. I think you have to help others. You can't wait for the other guy."

Proceeds will be distrubuted through United Way. "I chose them because I know the organization," Kossof said. "I've been on the board of Glenview Youth Services for at least nine years and United Way has been very helpful to us." In fact, United Way established a special disaster relief fund just after the attack. "It happened almost immediately," said Pat Hayden, assistant vice president of community impact of United Way of Suburban Chicago. "Because United Way has offices throughout the country, we are in a unique position. If people want to give to disaster relief through us, we can do that for them."

Donating to charity is nothing new for Kossof. His staff frequently does free hair styling for women modeling in area fashion shows, and he estimates that he gives about $100,000 annually in gift certificates to local churches, temples, and women's organizations to use as premiums.

But this is something else. "I hope a lot of people come. I have a big parking lot and I hope it's filled up Sunday," Kossof Said, then added, "I hope other salons, other businesses do this too. We can't wait for the other guy."