The Giving Trim is Ottawa’s social enterprise barbershop, offering professional, affordable haircuts while creating real training and employment opportunities for newcomers and at‑risk youth. Every visit supports youth gaining hands-on skills, mentorship, and a pathway into the workforce.
Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Monday: Closed
More Than a Barbershop in Ottawa
The Giving Trim is a vocational training and employment initiative in barbering and
hairstyling, powered by Active Newcomer Youth Ottawa’s BrightFutures initiative. Our
shop combines high‑quality grooming services with youth development, creating a
space where community, dignity, and opportunity come together.
Vocational Training
Youth learn professional barbering techniques, customer
service, and shop operations.
Mentorship
Experienced barbers and community leaders guide participants through real‑world work and life skills.
Economic Inclusion
Participants gain paid experience, references, and pathways
into employment or entrepreneurship.
The Giving Trim is designed as a working training hub where youth learn by doing. When you book a service, you’re directly supporting:
Vocational Training
Youth learn professional barbering techniques, customer service, and shop operations.
Mentorship
Experienced barbers and community leaders guide participants through real‑world work and life skills.
Economic Inclusion
Participants gain paid experience, references, and pathways
into employment or entrepreneurship.
Barbering Training Program
Our structured training program includes:
Foundations
Tools, hygiene, safety, and shop etiquette.
Skills
Fades, tapers, line‑ups, beard work, and basic styling.
Practice
Supervised cuts on models and clients in a live shop setting.
Development
Soft skills, time management, and customer relations.
Our Story
The Giving Trim grew out of a simple idea: use the barbershop—an everyday necessity—as a vehicle for youth empowerment and community care. Launched by Active Newcomer Youth Ottawa in 2025, the shop sits in a central, accessible location and serves Ottawa residents from all walks of life.
Media features and community partners have highlighted The Giving Trim as an example of how social enterprises can create second chances and fresh starts.
Featured as a youth‑driven social enterprise in Ottawa.
Supported through local social innovation and community funding initiatives.