In Dunmore, Pennsylvania, stylist and photographer Rich Banick is redefining the hair donation experience. As a volunteer Hair Donation Specialist (HDS) for Wigs For Kids, Rich combines precision hairstyling with professional photography, turning every donation into a moment worth celebrating.
Rich’s salon isn’t just about haircuts – it’s about creating memories. After the big chop, donors step in front of Rich’s camera for a mini photoshoot, transforming their act of generosity into a lasting keepsake. This unique approach helps donors feel proud of their new look while spreading awareness for Wigs For Kids across social media.
Clients like Olivia, who embraced a bold angled bob, and Gianna, who donated 12 inches before starting fourth grade, leave with more than a fresh style – they walk away with stunning images that showcase their giving spirit.
With 12 years of hairstyling experience and 11 years supporting Wigs For Kids, Rich brings unmatched expertise and creativity to every appointment. He owns three Great Clips salons that partner with Wigs For Kids and also operates Rich Banick Photography, a studio where beauty and artistry collide.
Rich specializes in haircuts for women of all ages and hair curling for senior photo clients, occasionally offering color services, but his true passion is haircutting.
“For me, it’s not just about the cut—it’s about capturing the moment. A photoshoot lets donors celebrate their new look and the impact they’ve made for a child.”
Rich’s commitment to Wigs For Kids runs deep:
“Every cut is a chance to give back, but every photo is a chance to inspire someone else to do the same.”
Although Rich hasn’t worked directly with children experiencing hair loss, he understands the emotional impact. “I started thinning in my teens and have worn a hair system for over 30 years,” he shares. This personal experience gives him empathy for those facing similar challenges.
“The clients I have done are super excited that their hair will be helping a child in need. It is fulfilling to be able to do something I love while also helping others.”
Rich emphasizes that Great Clips offers high-quality haircuts at affordable prices:
“Some people might think that getting a discount haircut also means a bad haircut. Not the case at all. Regular full-service salons do it all – cut, color, et cetera and might only do a few haircuts a day, if not a week. At Great Clips, they only cut hair. Our stylists cut hair all day, every day, so they have tons of experience with all hair types.”
At his photography studio, clients can enjoy versatile styling options – straight for one look, curly for another. They can even get a quick trim if they need it during the session, perfect for senior portraits or donation photoshoots.
Rich uses his social media to inspire others to join the cause. To book your hair donation appointment or photoshoot experience, contact Rich at thesalon@richbanick.com or follow him on Instagram: @richbanickphotography.
Use our Hair Donation Specialist Locator to find a trained volunteer stylist near you!
Each and every day, Wigs For Kids relies on the generosity of stylists across the country, whether they are performing donation cuts, or working directly with recipient families. They share their time, talent, and expertise to make life better for kids dealing with hair loss.
Each year, more and more families apply for our services, which are always provided at no cost to the families. This means our need for hair donations, financial donations, and stylists to help our kids also continues to increase.
Wigs For Kids offers free training materials to any stylist who would like to join our cause and help kids. Ask your favorite stylist to join us!
Are you a stylist ready to help kids? Please click here for more information.
Donating your hair to help a child unable to grow their own? Please click here for more information.
Want to meet a few of the children we serve? Please click here.
Looking for other ways to help kids? Please click here.
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