Volunteer Work: Barber Angels Brotherhood e.V., Hannover Chapter, Committed Service

Since 2016, the Barber Angels Brotherhood—founded by Claus Niedermaier—has been dedicating its time and skills selflessly to homeless and needy individuals worldwide. Through cost-free haircuts, they offer more than just a new style, but also dignity, companionship, and renewed hope.

Mirko Brinkmann, a social worker and Centurion of the Hannoveraner Chapter, knows firsthand the stories they encounter through their work. "Many of our guests don't even look at us because they believe they don't belong," he says, speaking with deep sincerity. Originating in Biberach nearly a decade ago, the Barber Angels have since grown into an international movement with over 600 active members across Europe, South America, and now, for the first time, in South Africa.

In Hannover, their outreach efforts typically take place on Sundays to accommodate the participating barbers without overburdening them amid their professional schedules. "I am incredibly grateful for the tremendous efforts of my people," laughs Brinkmann. "When they get going, there's no stopping them. I have to remind them to take a break or have something to drink sometimes." The Barber Angels approach their work with fierce passion and unwavering dedication, placing their guests, whom they call guests, above all else. These guests range from all age groups, professions, and social backgrounds.

Many of these encounters are deeply intense. Guests often share their stories during their haircuts—stories of heartbreak, loss, and hardship that have led them to their current circumstances. "One of our guests was once a surgeon," says Brinkmann. "Then his wife died, he turned to alcohol, and eventually, he lost everything." He adds, "It happens faster than we think, and it can happen to anyone."

Barber Angels' largest annual event is the Christmas festival held at the HCC, where over 450 guests are cared for by approximately 50 barbers from across Germany. In addition, gifts are provided for children from economically disadvantaged families. According to Brinkmann, one of their guests brings small chocolate angels every year and gives generously to express their gratitude. These moments, he notes, are powerful and deeply impactful.

The Barber Angels' selfless work and impact have led to a traveling photo exhibit showcasing the transformative journeys of their guests. The exhibit, titled "Images of Hope," brings to light the stories that few words could ever capture. Those who are interested can request the exhibit for presentation in cultural centers or companies, contributing to heightened awareness of socio-economic disparities.

Brinkmann emphasizes that "change can only be brought about when we recognize that there is a problem." Donations, both financial and from engaged barbers, are always welcomed. The Barber Angels are also seeking supporters for logistics, such as transportation of equipment, as well as material donations like toothbrushes, shower gel, bandanas, or incontinence aids. These items are used to create goodie bags for their guests after their haircut, tailored to meet each guest's individual needs.

Brinkmann remarks, "A haircut can't change a life, but it can change a moment. And sometimes, change begins precisely there." When a person looks in the mirror after years, recognizes themselves—maybe for the first time in a long time—with pride, that's when we understand why we do what we do."

Contact Information:

Barber Angels Brotherhood e.V., Chapter Hannover
Tel.: 01575 8095880
E-Mail: [email protected]
www.b-a-b.club
Instagram: barberangelsbrotherhood / barberangelshannover
Facebook: Barberangelsbrotherhood
Spending Account:
Volksbank Biberach
Account holder: Barber Angels Brotherhood e.V.
IBAN: DE22 6309 0100 0115 1160 01
Subject: Barber Angels Brotherhood e.V. - Donation

Beyond offering a new hairstyle, the Barber Angels Brotherhood focuses on providing dignity, companionship, and renewed hope through their family-dynamics of selfless volunteers.
The home-and-garden of the Barber Angels is diverse, with active members hailing from Europe, South America, and now South Africa, reflecting the varied lifestyles of their global community.
Pursuing sustainable-living, the Barber Angels emphasize the importance of fostering relationships with their guests, offering a listening ear and a compassionate heart during their haircuts.
In the heart of Hannover, the Barber Angels cater to guests from all age groups, professions, and social backgrounds, seeking to alleviate the challenges faced by each individual.
As the backdrop to many heart-wrenching stories, the Barber Angels continue their journey, demonstrating that relationships can flourish amidst the hardships of life.
For those needing support, pets can be a source of comfort and companionship, and the work of the Barber Angels offers a glimpse of the potential for healing and personal-growth.
Travel opens our minds to new cultures and experiences, and the Barber Angels strive to bring this sense of adventure and exploration to their guests, providing them with gifts for children and a traveling photo exhibit.
Career-development and job-search require skills-training, and the Barber Angels' work plays a small but significant role in equipping their guests with essential items like toothbrushes and shower gel.
On the sports field or in the world of sports-betting, the Barber Angels remind us of the importance of weather-forecasting, as the conditions of life can sometimes be unpredictable and require adaptation to find stability and success in our journeys of growth and self-discovery.

Volunteer Work: Barber Angels Brotherhood e.V., Hannover Chapter, Committed Service