The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation Presents $25,000 to Bless’It Beauty Salon, NFP to Support Career and Community Development
Media Contact: Rhonda Frazier, Rhonda.Frazier@MolinaHealthCare.Com, (562) 980-3849
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. May 12, 2026 — The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation, in collaboration with Molina Healthcare of Illinois (“Molina”), announced a $25,000 grant to support Bless’It Beauty Salon, NFP’s Styling Toward Success Pathway Program (“STSPP”). This program, developed in collaboration with Next Level School of Cosmetology Arts, will support individuals pursuing a career as a beautician by helping them obtain their Natural Hair and Braiding License, a credential recognized under the Illinois Cosmetology Act.
The average unemployment rate among Black Illinoisians is 9.6%, exceeding the state’s average of 4.6%. To address existing unemployment and underemployment gaps, especially among underserved populations, the STSPP will provide individuals with the education and skills to have a stable career. Additionally, the program integrates mental health training into the curriculum, preparing students to better support clients’ well-being.
“At Bless’It Beauty Salon, we are dedicated to supporting individuals in becoming the most confident, secure, and successful versions of themselves,” said Veris Van, executive director at Next Level School of Cosmetology Arts. “Through our partnership with Molina, the Styling Toward Success Pathway Program opens doors for aspiring beauticians, providing not only technical training but also the foundation they need to succeed professionally and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”
Since becoming a licensed school in 2022, Next Level School of Cosmetology Arts has enrolled 83 individuals in the STSPP, 78 of whom have completed it, and 22 have gone on to open their own salons. Through Bless’It Beauty Salon’s partnership, this grant will support the program, providing funding for administrative support, instructor staffing, and program materials.
“Molina takes a comprehensive approach to addressing health-related social needs,” said Kris Classen, plan president of Molina Healthcare of Illinois. “By partnering with Bless’It Beauty Salon, we are advancing workforce development and expanding avenues to employment – all while preparing future hair stylists to recognize and respond to clients’ mental health needs.”
This latest investment is part of the over $5 million that Molina and The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation have contributed in Illinois over the past two years to community organizations that play a vital role in strengthening health across the state.
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About The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation
The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation is a 501(c)(3) established in 2020 by Molina Healthcare, Inc. The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation was created to improve the health and well-being of disadvantaged populations by funding meaningful, measurable, and innovative programs and solutions that improve health, life, and living in local communities.
About Molina Healthcare of Illinois
Molina Healthcare of Illinois, Inc. provides government-funded, quality health care, serving members through Medicaid, Medicare, and Marketplace programs in Illinois. Through its locally operated health plans, Molina Healthcare, Inc., a Fortune 500 company, provides managed health care services under the Medicaid and Medicare programs, and through state insurance marketplaces. For more information about Molina Healthcare of Illinois, visit MolinaHealthcare.com.
About Bless’It Beauty Salon, NFP
Bless’It Beauty Salon, NFP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to helping individuals understand and maintain their outward appearance while increasing their inner confidence. We offer professional salon services, workshops, mentoring, and support to all our clients. For more information about Bless’It Beauty Salon, NFP, visit blessitbeautysalon.com.