Created: 5/29/2009 6:06:32 PM 
Columbia (WLTX) - If you've ever gotten your hair done then you know that sitting in that chair is almost like therapy. One Columbia beauty school has joined up with Sistercare for a toiletry drive in which all of the proceeds are donated to fighting domestic violence, but that's not all they do. The Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology may look like a typical beauty school but the folks inside aren't only revitalizing hair, they're trying to help revitalize lives. Some may think it strange; however, admissions representative Miranda Williams says they're fighting domestic abuse with donations, cosmetics and open ears. "The cosmetology industry really has a lot of power as far as working with women," says Williams. "A lot of people don't realize that it's more than just getting your hair done. It's having someone listen to you for a little while, even if it's just for two hours. Sometimes just talking helps women who are going through a domestic violence situation." According to Sistercare's website, one in three women around the world have been or are victims of domestic violence and never tell anyone about it. That's one of the reasons why the people at Kenneth Shuler hope they can be an outlet for those women. It's not just about listening as it's also about picking up on small things that might signals that something is wrong. "Sometimes, if there's been a physical altercation there may be a bruise on their skin and you can defiantly see that when you're close to someone doing a facial or hair or a manicure or pedicure," Williams says. If abuse is present, the beautician will use their discretion and if necessary offer advice on where they can go for help. Williams says, "There are so many challenges that woman are going through everywhere. It really makes us grateful for the relationships that we have here, and the power we have to help those who have gone through challenges." According to Williams, sometimes a step as small as getting a manicure can improve a woman's sense of self-worth and that can get her started on the road to freedom. "Personal care is our passion, so if we can help another woman gain that sense of self-confidence back, that's why we do this." The drive ends Friday evening. Until then, donations can be dropped off at the school which is located at 7474 Garners Ferry Road in Richland County. After that, donations may be made to Sistercare, Inc. That information is available at www.sistercare.com.
