My name is Cedric, and my journey has taken me from the most dangerous side of Memphis, Tennessee, to a new life in Chicago. Years ago, I lived a life I’m not proud of—caught up in the streets, selling drugs, and running with the Gangster Disciples. One night, a drug deal went wrong, and someone lost their life. Even though I didn’t pull the trigger, I was held responsible and sentenced to life in prison for criminal negligence. I served 26 years before being released five years ago, and since then, I’ve been on a mission to make a real change.

God led me to Chicago, where I’ve seen firsthand the struggles of people experiencing homelessness and those returning to society after prison. I know from my own experience how hard it is to start over, and how something as simple as a haircut can make you feel like a new person. That’s why I bought a massive charter bus and began turning my vision into reality—all funded by myself, with no grants or sponsorships. It hasn’t been easy, especially as I’m about to become a single father to a four-year-old, but I believe in this mission with all my heart.

I’m asking for your help to finish transforming this bus into a mobile barbershop called the Twenty Six and Five Experience, commemorating the time I served and the journey I’ve taken. The funds will go toward insulation, solar panels, six barber stations, a new heating and air system, a custom wrap, new tires, and a special area for passing out food and water. Every donor’s name will be displayed on the bus as a sign of gratitude and hope. Thank you to everyone in Chicago and across the country for believing in this project. Grateful is an understatement—this is my ministry, and together we can spread a little joy to those who need it most.