In the heart of Oxford, Ohio, Kiki the Barber is more than just a place to get a haircut—it’s a sanctuary for those seeking a moment of peace, a place to relax, and a genuine connection. Owner Juiquetta Harmon makes sure to say that she doesn’t just cut hair. She hopes to bring confidence to kids on picture day or a safe place for kids and adults alike to read in the on-site lending library.
“I love being able to connect with the people who have been helping me the last couple years,” she says. “I enjoy listening to the stories, listening to the kids, watching them grow up from their first haircut and through college. It’s not work for me.”
Harmon’s barber story started more than two decades ago when her father was recovering from a sudden medical scare. She says her dad and son were her first hair models during that time, giving her feedback and teaching her patience and kindness. Fast forward to today, and Harmon says the barbershop is more than just a business. She aims for it to be a bright spot in the community where people with and without an appointment can grab a book, use the wifi to work, or stop to chat with her between appointments.
Her passion for the community is why the Storefronts to the Forefront program supports local businesses like Kiki the Barber with $5,000 grants. Harmon plans to use the funds to replace her exterior sign, improve the building facade, and eventually open employment opportunities for aspiring barbers.
“Receiving this grant is like a pat on the shoulder,” she says. “I don’t know how to describe what it’s like to be thankful and grateful. I’m in the business of people, not in the business of hair. The amount of love and compassion people need is tangible and authentic. They need to know they belong, and I get to do that every day.”
Now in its third year as a partnership among Duke Energy, Huntington National Bank, and the Cincinnati Regional Chamber, Storefronts to the Forefront helps small businesses improve facilities, buy new equipment, and support marketing efforts and expansion. Stronger small businesses ultimately foster vibrant communities across the region’s business districts. Other recipients of this year’s grants include Better Blend in Ft. Mitchell, The Cone in West Chester, Ferrari Brothers Restaurant Group in Camp Washington, Jet Age Records in Newport, Market Street Grille in Harrison, and Peter Gregory Florist in Blue Ash.
Storefronts to the Forefront distributed grants in 2023 in Clifton, Goshen, Mt. Washington, Oakley, and Dayton, Kentucky. Grants in 2022 supported business districts in East Price Hill, Loveland, Milford, Madisonville, New Richmond, Norwood, Reading, and Walnut Hills as well as Bellevue, Ft. Thomas, and Ludlow, Kentucky.
Watch videos featuring all Storefronts to the Forefront neighborhoods and find out how you can better support small businesses here. You can also support them on Small Business Saturday November 30.