This year, Great Clips is partnering with Kenny Jary—better known as Patriotic Kenny—an 82-year-old Navy veteran and TikTok favorite whose red glasses, big smile, and genuine joy have made him a viral symbol of kindness and gratitude.
When Kenny visited a local Great Clips salon to experience the Thank a Veteran program, his delight at being able to give away a free haircut was contagious. You can see his story here—it’s hard not to smile along with him.
Now in its 13th year, the Thank a Veteran program has become one of Great Clips’ most meaningful traditions. It starts simply: On November 11, salons offer free haircuts to active and retired military members. But what makes it truly special is how customers can join in by picking up a free haircut card to share with a veteran or service member they know. That one small act of thanks continues to ripple outward—building connection, appreciation, and community.
To date, we’ve provided more than 2.5 million free haircuts to active and veteran military service members—adding up to over $39 million in complimentary services. But what makes the program truly special is how it connects people.
It’s a small act that creates a powerful ripple. Many franchisees tell us this program is one of their most popular promotions, and one of the most rewarding because it gives stylists, customers, and communities a way to say “thank you” together.
A few years ago, we asked several veterans connected to our Great Clips family to share their own stories. Take a look—and keep the tissues handy:
WATCH: Celebrating the heroes who make Great Clips great: Franchisee Dennis Stevens
WATCH: Celebrating the heroes who make Great Clips great: Chuck Mundal
WATCH: Celebrating the heroes who make Great Clips great: The Jacobsons
This November, as we recognize both Veterans Day and Remembrance Day, we’re proud to continue this legacy of gratitude—celebrating service, sharing thanks, and strengthening the connections that bring our communities together.
If you’d like to know more about being a Great Clips franchisee and how the team at the corporate office would support you as you build a hair salon franchise, give me a call! I’d love to talk with you.
Beth Nilssen
Director of Franchise Development | Great Clips, Inc. 800-947-1143 | [email protected]
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