Meet Charlene Blacer, Founder and Philanthropist of Help Me 2 Stop.org

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do professionally. 
I am the founder and philanthropist of a non-profit organization that helps create awareness and free or affordable salon treatments for sufferers of hair-pulling disorder, Trichotillomania.  My home is in Stroudsburg, PA and I also spend time in New York City and Philadelphia where I have two other salon locations.  I am 38 and a single mother to 3 children.

What do you enjoy most about your profession and why did you choose it in the first place?
I enjoy helping people.  It is a rewarding feeling.  It was not a choice.  It had to be done. There is nothing like this in the world.  My clients have asked insurance for help and got nothing.

Tell us about the organizations your company supports and why?
As the owner of a hair specialty salon, The Secret Mane, for hair loss and hair disorders, I saw first-hand the great need of this underserved population and founded Help Me 2 Stop.org, a charitable organization which provides grants for Trichotillomania sufferers to receive free or affordable cosmetic treatments to help boost their morale and get them on the road to recovery.

What is the biggest risk you ever took professionally and/or the biggest obstacle you have overcome?
It was taking a chance. I was afraid to not follow the norm.  For instance, I would practice hair installation methods never taught by my schools.  I was also afraid to speak the real truth about hair extensions for fear of turning clients off.  But regardless of my all fears, I sticked to my guts and as a result my website visitors were impressed and I gained their trust and business.

From where do you draw inspiration? Who have been your role models, mentors, etc?
My clients.  With their feedbacks, they help my business grow.  I also like inspirational quotes and attending business lunchoens and networking events.  I belong to Ladies Who Launch, eWomen, Count Me In, etc…

How is the current economic situation affecting your company/organization?
It was tough for only 2 months, but things went back to normal for my companies.  As for my clients, I simply try to work with their financial difficulties such as no interest payment plans.

What one thing would you like to learn this year?
I want to learn more about growing my non-profit and see our first paycheck!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Traveling the world and helping more sufferers worldwide since Trichotillomania affects 1-2 out of 50 according to trich.org  Yes, combining business with pleasure!

What do you do for fun/relaxation/entertainment?
Visiting new places, trying new foods, relaxing in my backyard covered in my garden.  A garden also inspires me and facinates me on living things that have the potential to grow.  I would like to do more international traveling.
Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?

Step outside the box, out of your comfort zone and make that burning desire inside of you come alive.  It can and will happen.  Be different.

Which, if any social networking sites do you belong to?

So many- http://www.cybermane.com/CharlenesFriends.html

I was also featured in “Moms on a Mission”- http://www.startupnation.com/series/134/9434/moms-on-a-mission.htm

Learn more at http://helpme2stop.org/