Mission Statement

HUFOY’s mission is to promote economic development and educational equality for underserved youth in Greensboro NC and surrounding areas. Through strategic partnerships with organizations, community leaders, and businesses, we create programs for the educational growth and personal development of those we serve. Our goal is to empower youth to overcome barriers, achieve academic success, and thrive in their communities, fostering a more equitable and prosperous future for all.

Everything we do is centered on the premise of making life better for the youth and their families in our community. Every positive encounter, every risky behavior that is diverted and every thoughtful choice made is a testament to the work we do. Every positive outcome for the youth we serve is a positive outcome for us all, and it is with help from caring individuals , community leaders and businesses like yours that we are able to expand our reach and create a lasting impact for our children.

Meet The Founders

Message from Jelani Boone

Our Story

Rick Morton, DC Creighton, Tank Robinson, Kirk Thorpe, Michael McGorda, Jason Cox, Phil Lawson, Jarus Rice, Dwayne Shaw

 (not show in photo Grade A Dre, Myles and Crystal) 

Heads Up Barber and Beauty was more than just a place for haircuts; it was a hub of community spirit and service. Rick Morton and Dwayne Shaw, along with their team of barber brothers, had cultivated an atmosphere where conversation flowed as freely as the clippers buzzed.

One day, while Rick was deftly shaping a client’s hair, he was approached by none other than Kerry Charles, a Fox 8 News anchor. Kerry, struck by the camaraderie and sense of purpose in the barbershop, proposed an idea to Rick: What if they offered free haircuts to a group of students in need?

Rick, always receptive to opportunities to give back, immediately embraced the idea. And thus, the Big Brother Barber program was born. With the support of Dwayne and their barber brothers, they began offering free haircuts to students, coupled with mentorship and guidance.

The program quickly gained traction, with each event drawing more students and volunteers eager to make a difference. As word spread, so did the impact of the program, touching the lives of countless young individuals in the community.

However, Rick, Dwayne, and their team realized that there was more they could do to support the youth in their community. They saw a need for financial literacy education and resources, recognizing that empowerment went beyond just a fresh haircut.

So, they expanded their efforts, launching the Financial Literacy Program to equip young people with the knowledge and skills they needed to navigate their financial futures confidently.

But they didn’t stop there. They knew that education was key to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering young people to reach their full potential. And so, they established the Annual Back to School Rally, providing students with essential school supplies and resources to start the academic year off right.

To date, the impact of Heads Up For Our Youth continues to grow, touching the lives of countless young people in Greensboro and beyond. From humble beginnings in a barbershop to a thriving nonprofit organization, Rick, Dwayne, and their team remain committed to uplifting and empowering the youth in their community, one haircut, one lesson, and one school supply at a time.

Next Event

“The Reenactment”: A Transformative Initiative Coming to Your City Soon

Heads Up For Our Youth is proud to introduce “The Reenactment,” a groundbreaking youth crime diversion program poised to make waves in communities across the nation. This innovative initiative goes beyond traditional approaches, offering a unique blend of creativity, empathy, and empowerment.

Why “The Reenactment”?

“The Reenactment” is not just an event; it’s a movement dedicated to reshaping the trajectory of young lives. This transformative program aims to address the root causes of youth violence through a combination of theatrical elements, counseling, and community engagement. By stepping into the shoes of real-life scenarios, participants gain insight, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the consequences of their actions.

The Importance of “The Reenactment”:

This initiative is crucial in our ongoing efforts to create positive change within communities. By providing a platform for open conversations about youth violence, we aim to inspire individuals, organizations, and communities to come together and be part of the solution. “The Reenactment” serves as a catalyst for change, emphasizing the need for collaboration and support to break the cycle of delinquency.

Coming to a City Near You:

Be on the lookout for “The Reenactment” as it travels to cities nationwide. This program is not confined to a single location; it’s a dynamic initiative with the potential to make a lasting impact wherever it goes. As we take this transformative experience on the road, we invite communities, leaders, and advocates to join us in fostering change and creating a brighter future for our youth.

“The Reenactment” is more than a program; it’s a call to action, an invitation to engage in meaningful conversations, and an opportunity to be part of a movement that transcends boundaries. Stay tuned for updates on when “The Reenactment” will be coming to your city, and let’s work together to make a positive difference in the lives of our youth.

Join us on this journey of transformation, and let’s build a future where every young individual has the chance for redemption and growth.

Warm regards,

Heads Up For Our Youth Team

2023 Recap

Celebrating Our 8th Annual Back To School Rally Heroes

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the outstanding sponsors and partners who played a pivotal role in the resounding success of the 8th Annual Back To School Rally. With over 1,000 eager attendees, 56 devoted volunteers, 21 essential community partners, and the unwavering support of our title sponsor, Dr. Shante Williams and Black Pearl Vision, this event exemplified the strength of community collaboration. Dr. Williams and Black Pearl Vision’s generous donation of 150 youth eyeglass frames and prescription services, combined with the dedication of The Greensboro Coliseum Complex, Heads Up Barber and Beauty, and our esteemed partners, created a memorable experience for our community’s youth and their families. Together, we continue to uplift, support, and inspire the next generation on their educational journey.

Children have a journey !!!

Rated 5.0 out of 5

Outstanding to see this event as an structural tool of communication of each year to our youth.

You know children have no idea or what’s on their separate journeys in life but to get roots in the ground of their lives like this is an excellent anchor for them.

Dennis Rudd DJ

Cultivating Confidence and Connection at HUFOY

Rated 5.0 out of 5

Allen Jay Preparatory Academy first partnered with a talented team of barbers, including Rick Morton, Dr. Shaw, Tank, Crystal, Grade A Dre, DC, MJ, Jarus, and Lil Rick, in 2015. They skillfully cut hair and won the hearts of the scholars in our male mentoring program, Men of Distinction (M.O.D. Squad). Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, our last visit to the shop was in 2018. However, this year, we had the opportunity to return with a new group of scholars, and I must say that the team, led by Rick Morton, has truly elevated the HUFOY program. They not only provided haircuts and grooming tips but also created a safe space for the young men to express themselves without fear of judgment. Additionally, by utilizing new age technology like Kahoot, they engaged the scholars in interactive learning sessions. The young men have been raving about how welcomed and valued the team made them feel, and we are eagerly looking forward to our next visit.

Mr. Will and Mr. Cline from AJP

Phenomenal Event!

Rated 5.0 out of 5

The 8th Annual Back to School Rally was a resounding success! A day filled with enthusiasm, positivity, and a sense of community that left a lasting impression. It not only set a positive tone for the academic year but also reinforced the sense of unity and purpose within the community. The effort put into planning and executing this event was evident in every detail. It was a pleasure to work with such a remarkable, passionate and purpose driven group of people. We look forward to collaborating with HUFOY again in the future.

Jameelah McMillan - Rolling Video Games NC

Great experience!

Rated 5.0 out of 5

As someone who recently moved into the area I was looking into ways I can contribute and help in the community. I was told about the event being held by HUFOY and I was a first time volunteer. What an event it was! It was great to see all the children (and parents) having a blast! Great job by HUFOY.

Tomiwa Osipitan

Inspired and encouraged by this great work!

Rated 5.0 out of 5

Brother Shaw and his whole team deserve the utmost praise for the vision that grounds this event. My 14 year old son participated in the basketball tournament and had an opportunity to see what giving back to the community looks like. The visibility of resources at the various tables was encouraging as well.

Paul R Ford

Awesome Event

Rated 5.0 out of 5

Thanks to Dewayne Shaw and His team, Head’s Up. I brought a group of Kids from Burlington up to Greensboro for this event. They treated Them just like Family.They really enjoyed all the activities. They all got book bags and school supplies. They got some info for school and some info for life. “Great Job “

Roscoe Alston

instrumental in our community

Rated 5.0 out of 5

Heads Up 4 Our Youth has been a great asset to the greater community, providing positive experiences for our kids, free haircuts, school supplies, mentorship and so much more. The leadership is a true example of whats needed more in our community!!!

David Dj justice Small

Best Youth Outreach Program in the Piedmont!!!

Rated 5.0 out of 5

I have been part of HUFOY for 8 years, since its inception. This being said, I am also a very blunt individual that looks on things from a neutral perspective. My main loyalty will always be to Jesus.

If what Dwayne Shaw and Rick Morton are doing at HUFOY isn’t the Lord’s work, I don’t know what is. To minister to the widows and fatherless is the call of community missions, and many children in the communities that HUFOY focuses on have absent fathers. These kids have found fatherhood through community engagement, and found that encouragement through the men and women of HUFOY.

I am so inspired by the work that is done in this organization that it inspired me to start my own business and branch out into other opportunities as well.

When I was at my lowest, I could always find my way to the therapy chair and talk it out with my brothers at Heads Up Barber.

These kids have found that therapy chair and it’s HUFOY.

R. David Lopez Jr.

GS-10 Dept of Veterans Affairs (14y Honorable Federal svc)

VA Disability Retired Veteran, US Army 101st ABN

Roger David Lopez Jr.

Great Event!

Rated 5.0 out of 5

Many thanks to Dwayne Shaw and his team, Head’s Up For Our Youth, for inviting E.H. Bowman & Associates, LLC to their 8th Annual Back to School Rally! They did an amazing job this past Sunday & were amazing hosts!

It was an action-packed afternoon of community vendors, free hair cuts, free eye exams, dance contest, basketball tournament, live music and food to include concessions and food trucks! The icing on the cake…..1000 bookbags were given away to all registered attendees!

E.H. Bowman Associates Consulting Firm LLC

Outstanding Event

Rated 5.0 out of 5

It is heartwarming to see the effort and dedication provided by HUFOY for the community. The event (as always) was well organized and family oriented. It was very enjoyable and also helped lots of families. I’m glad to have been able to attend with my family.

Duane Boone



7th Annual Back To School Rally ReCap

It was clear that this young cheerleader was a natural performer, with a passion for her craft that shone through in every move. Her energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and the audience was captivated from start to finish.

As the routine came to a close, the crowd erupted into cheers and applause, and the young cheerleader beamed with pride. For her and her team, this was a moment they would never forget, a chance to shine in front of their peers and show what they were capable of.

But it was also a testament to the work of organizations like HUFOY, who provide a platform for young people to showcase their talents and gain confidence in their abilities. Through events like the Back To School Rally halftime show, HUFOY is able to give local youth the support and resources they need to succeed, and this little cheerleader was a shining example of what can be achieved with dedication and hard work.

In the end, it was a performance that left a lasting impression on everyone who witnessed it. This little cutie and her amazing cheer team proved that with passion and determination, anything is possible. They rocked the HUFOY halftime show, and their future is bright with promise.

Choreographed by the honorable Coach Jae and Jamboree of Gymstones 

The 7th Annual HUFOY Back To School Rally was a huge success, with community members coming together to support local youth as they prepare for a new school year. The event featured a variety of activities, but one of the highlights was the 10 on 10 Tug-of-War contest, which provided a fun and interactive way for young people to learn valuable life lessons.

The Tug-of-War contest was a high-energy event that saw teams of 10 youth competing against each other in a battle of strength and determination. As they pulled with all their might, coaches yelled out words of encouragement, urging them to never give up and believe in themselves. The contest allowed youth to learn the value of teamwork, perseverance, and resilience, all while having fun and enjoying the camaraderie of their peers.

One of the most amazing things about the contest was how it brought people together from different backgrounds and walks of life. Boys and girls, black and white, short and tall, all came together to work towards a common goal. For that moment, differences didn’t matter, and the focus was on pulling together as a team to achieve victory.

The event was a showcase of togetherness, sportsmanship, and heart. It was a reminder of the importance of community, and how coming together to support one another can lead to great things. The Tug-of-War contest was a powerful example of how a simple game can teach so many important life lessons, and how HUFOY is making a positive impact in the lives of local youth.

Congratulations to all the participants for their hard work and dedication. They showed us what can be achieved when we work together, and their commitment to success was truly inspiring. As we look forward to the next HUFOY Back To School Rally, we can’t wait to see what other amazing things the youth of our community will achieve.

The day was filled with excitement, energy, and a strong sense of community. One of the standout moments of the event was when a young lady was awarded a Heads Up medal for her contribution to her team’s victory in the 10 on 10 Tug-of-War contest.

As co-founder Dwayne Shaw presented her with the medal, the announcer DJ Jimmy Jam called out her name to the cheering crowd. The look in her eyes was unforgettable – a mixture of pride, determination, and joy. In that moment, she knew that she had accomplished something special.

It wasn’t just about the medal, it was about the journey to get there. The Tug-of-War contest was tough and required all the strength and resilience she could muster. Her hands ached from holding on to the rope while her opponents tried to drag her down, but she never gave up. She held on tight and kept pulling until her team emerged victorious.

The look in her eyes told the story of a young lady who had overcome a challenge and emerged stronger and more confident as a result. She had won, and in doing so, she had learned valuable lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and the power of a never-give-up attitude.

This moment was a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of our youth. By acknowledging their hard work and dedication, we can help build their confidence and motivate them to strive for even greater success in the future.

The Heads Up medal was more than just a piece of metal; it was a symbol of the pride and accomplishment that this young lady felt in that moment. It represented the dedication, hard work, and perseverance that had led her to victory. And it was a testament to the power of community, teamwork, and the belief that with effort and determination, anything is possible.

As we look back on the 7th Annual HUFOY Back To School Rally, we can’t help but feel inspired by this young lady and her incredible achievement. She showed us that with hard work and a never-give-up attitude, anything is possible. And we can’t wait to see what other amazing things the youth of our community will achieve in the years to come.

© 2022 Heads Up For Our Youth All Rights Reserved.

501(c)(3) Nonprofit, Tax I.D. 47-3146377