For a second year, the Cosmetology programs at the LoGuidice and Hewes educational centers hosted “Love Yourself” events. Career & Technical Education juniors and seniors at both locations provided various hair and nail services while foundation representatives promoted self-care initiatives.

The recent events, held shortly before Valentine’s Day, again benefitted E2CCB students and The Waterfront Foundation.

“We all benefit mutually,” said Matt Hanley, foundation marketing director. “It’s fun to partner with the students and staff at BOCES and the Cosmetology program. With BOCES in general, it’s fun to watch the students grow and get that real-time experience.”

Assisting Hanley were Alicia Eckstrom and Stephanie Brown with The Waterfront Foundation, which supports The Chautauqua Center.

The LoGuidice and Hewes educational centers recently hosted “Love Yourself” events in partnership with The Waterfront Foundation. E2CCB students at both locations provided various hair and nail services while foundation representatives promoted self-care initiatives. Submitted photo

During both events, E2CCB staff and students, along with members of the public, could come by the Cosmetology classrooms. Hair and nail services were available at LoGuidice, while nail services were available at Hewes.

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, many participants walked out with freshly painted red nails.

Kara Rusco and Kyla Rodriguez, Cosmetology instructors at Hewes, commended the collaboration over the last two years and noted the obvious benefits it has provided CTE students.

“They’re able to get a taste of what it’s like to work with the public,” Rodriguez said. “It helps them gain proficiency in communication as well as their speed in working on their services. It gives them experience and exposure working on a real client, similar to when we have our student clinics.”

Rusco said the “Love Yourself” event is a great way to “bring the community in for a good cause.”

There are other advantages as well.

“The students are able to learn,” Rusco said. “Juniors can get some experience ahead of our clinics. This is a great way for them to understand what it would be like to work with clients as they get their licenses. This is truly an experience.”

In the fall, E2CCB also partners with The Chautauqua Center for a “Mammogrammy” event supporting breast cancer awareness. Cosmetology students provide gel manicures and regular manicure services to members of the public.

“To us, this is doing health care out in the community,” Hanley said. “With this event, between here at Hewes and at LoGuidice, it has really taken off over the last couple of years. … The premise is to help people with their self-care and to think about yourself and relax. That’s an important part of our current environment. We all need to remember ourselves and our busy lives.”