Local businesses fundraise for autism in Cowansville
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Coiffure Spectrum and its partners, Aloha Santé, Gypsy Tattoo, and Anxiety Tattoo, are hosting their 4th annual fundraising event to support those with autism spectrum disorder. The event, scheduled for April 27 in Cowansville, will raise funds for Camp Garagona and Pleins Rayons, two organizations that aid individuals with autism in the community.
This year’s event will offer a variety of activities suitable for all attendees, according to a press release. Local organizations will set up an information booth to provide details about services available for those with special needs. Additionally, tattoo lovers can get inked on-site by skilled artists from Gypsy Tattoo and Anxiety Tattoo.
The day’s activities include a silent auction, a pastry sale, booths by local vendors and artisans showcasing unique products, and a barbecue offering delicious food options from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The evening will feature a performance by Leadville Union from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., rounding off a day dedicated to solidarity and support for a significant cause.
“I have a hair salon that specializes in kids with special needs,” said Tonya Harvey, owner of Coiffure Spectrum, in an interview with The Record April 23. When she first opened up, she did not know how to spread the word about her new business. Thus, the need for this fundraiser, to raise awareness about what she does and other related organizations. Parents of children with autism, she continued, do not always know where to turn to get hers or related kinds of help.
Harvey’s salon is specialized to cater to children with autism spectrum disorder and ADHD, and she provides “mobile services” for those with limited mobility. “There are so many hairdressers in Cowansville that you really need to set yourself apart,” she added, and the demand for her services is substantial.
Her special needs clients are served “one-on-one,” with the whole salon to themselves. She sometimes uses a special clipper that makes no noise. She takes the time to really get to know her clients and see what works for them. “Whether it’s in the chair, in front of the television, I have an aquarium… whatever they need,” she said.
Initially the event was held in her salon, but now it is so popular she has to rent a hall. This year she has 37 tables reserved for vendors and artisans of all kinds. “Go big or go home!” she said. Fudge, bake sale goods, gems, and jewellery will be available, along with tables set aside to promote Camp Garagona and Pleins Rayons. “There is something for everybody,” she said.
Harvey hired local band Leadville Union to provide music for the night’s dance. “They play blues/country/rock… a mix,” she explained.
She likes to encourage people in their ventures, she said, because she started out as a small business and knows what it is like. “From day one it’s been quite the adventure,” she said. Things did not work out with her initial business partner. The pandemic hit right after she first opened. Her landlord helped her out when many other small businesses faltered.
“Word of mouth is the best thing you can do,” she said, speaking on how everything has turned out for the best. It is also a “plus” to be an English hairdresser in the area, she added.
Further details and updates on the event can be found on Coiffure Spectrum’s Facebook page.