May 27
2011—The recent, destructive tornado that hit Joplin, Missouri killed at least
125 people—many are still unaccounted for, damaged or destroyed nearly 2,000
city structures and is the single deadliest tornado since officials began
keeping records.
Farouk Shami,
founder and chairman of Farouk Systems, official hair care sponsor of the Miss
Universe Organization and celebrating 25 years of ammonia free color, is doing
his part to assist 60 displaced Joplin salon professionals who lost their
businesses and residents who have been affected by the twister.
“Joplin is
where it all started for me, says Shami.
A young
Shami immigrated
to America in 1965 and
attended the former Joplin Beauty Academy and worked in the salon in the former
Newman’s Department Store before launching his career and world wide company. In
2009, recognizing
Shami’s contribution to the professional beauty industry, Joplin Mayor Gary Shaw
presented Shami with a proclamation declaring Sept. 20, 2009, as Farouk Shami
Day.
“On Friday,
May 27, at 11 am, I will be at the State Beauty Supply at 530 Virginia Avenue to
help my fellow Joplin salon professionals get their salon back on track by
providing salon kits to help them restart their business and provide for their
families,” says Shami “People need hope and a sense of normalcy after such
disasters.”
Shami is
prepared to donate salon kits, styling tools and products valuing more than
$100,000 in assistance. The salon kits are necessary for displaced salon
professional to restart their livelihood and have the potential to multiply ten
fold in services. He will also be giving away Care kits to Joplin residents
containing CHI and BioSilk shampoo, conditioner and other toiletries.
“Joplin laid
the foundation to where I am today,” continues Shami. “I started Farouk Systems
25 years ago with a mission and dream. We are a company of hairdressers for
hairdressers and I am humbled that I am able to give back to where it all began
for me.”