Meet the Founder

Meet the Founder

Homeless and Veteran Haircuts Across America was founded by Richard Agers, who left his corporate career to pursue a calling rooted deeply in service and family legacy. After learning about the hardships many veterans still face—and inspired by the military history of his grandfather, James W. Leonard—Richard set out to use his skills as a barber to make a direct and meaningful impact.

Armed with his clippers, a travel kit, and a commitment to giving back, Richard travels city to city offering free haircuts to homeless individuals and veterans living on the streets. Each haircut is more than a grooming service—it's a moment of human connection, a chance to rebuild confidence, and a reminder that every person deserves dignity.

Through personal outreach, community involvement, and heartfelt storytelling captured across social media, the organization aims to raise awareness of homelessness and the challenges many veterans continue to endure. With every stop along the way, Richard continues to honor his grandfather’s service by uplifting those who once served—and those who have been left behind.

Homeless and Veteran Haircuts Across America exists to serve, to honor, and to inspire. One haircut at a time.

Richard and his daugther
Richard and his dogs

A Message From Our Founder, Richard Agers

When I walked away from my corporate job to become a barber, I knew I wanted my work to mean something more. My grandfather, James W. Leonard, taught me through his service—and through the kind of man he was—that every life has value. He served our country with courage as a lead gunner commander in the Vietnam War, and he spent his life serving others long after he returned home.

This organization is my way of honoring him.

Traveling across America, meeting people right where they are, and giving them a simple haircut has shown me something powerful: dignity can be restored in minutes, and hope can begin with a conversation. When someone sits in my chair—whether they're a veteran carrying invisible scars or someone experiencing homelessness—they are seen, heard, and respected.

Homeless and Veteran Haircuts Across America exists because I believe my grandpa would want me to keep serving in my own way. And I believe in the impact we can make together.

Thank you for supporting this mission and helping carry his legacy forward.

— Richard