As the season changes, Affinia Healthcare is bringing about new changes as well. The men’s health group, A Conversation, is now Clippers and Conversations; adding the element of haircuts for those in attendance. 

“Since the beginning, this group has always reminded me of going to the barbershop,” said Affinia Healthcare Outreach Director LaDon Meriweather. “Most times, the barbershop is where men can speak freely without feeling judged, yet they feel heard.” 

The group, developed by Meriweather three years ago, gives men in the community a safe space to discuss issues important to them and learn more about living a healthy lifestyle. Clippers and Conversations will continue with the same format of having a group discussion and a licensed therapist on hand to provide guidance while adding free haircuts. 

“For men, a fresh haircut can make a huge difference in their confidence and how they feel. I think adding this to our platform will not only make the men in the group feel good about how they look on the outside, but they’ll feel good on the inside from having a discussion with others,” added Meriweather. 

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, men are less likely to receive mental health treatment than women. Men are also more likely to die by suicide than women.   

“The statistics of men’s health is alarming, specifically for Black men,” said Affinia Healthcare President & CEO Dr. Kendra Holmes. “We’re providing an outlet for men to be their selves freely while educating them on important health topics. Incorporating the free haircuts is another way we’re working to make the environment feel more inviting.” 

Clippers and Conversations is the last Saturday each month from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Biddle Health Center at 1717 Biddle Street. This is a free event, and lunch is provided on a first come first serve basis.  

For more information about Clippers and Conversations or to become a volunteer barber, please contact Meriwether at 314-797-0339 or at lmeriweather@affiniahealthcare.org. For more information about Affinia Healthcare or to schedule an appointment, please call 314-814-8700 or visit www.affiniahealthcare.org.