Community Stories

In 2005, Gwendolyn Chambliss launched her own distinctive beauty school, the GP Institute of Cosmetology, in the Rainier Valley. What sets this school apart is its emphasis on "life" skills -- listening and communicating with people -- that are beyond the basic training required for certification in Cosmetology. Gwendolyn's focus on her students' success as well as serving her community (free haircuts for the homeless) has earned her business an excellent reputation, flourishing on word-of-mouth promotion. The economic down turn is threatening this unique Seattle business, but she continues to stay true to her mission. As Gwendolyn says: "We can be our own stimulus package."