750 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607, US
Our History
A Brief Overview
In 2007, the idea of creating a Barber / Beauty Union was birthed by Willie Lightfoot. In an effort to unite and educate and provide access to essential services and benefits for barbers and cosmetologist. Mr. Lightfoot hosted a free dinner to gather ideas and hear the needs of those servicing the appearance enhancement industry. Two free dinners were given at the Wishing Well Party house which was funded and hosted by Wade Norwood of the Finger Lakes Health Association. The meeting was a success.
In the attempt to establish a Union the group was informed that unionization was not legal because barbers and cosmetologist are independent workers. This was a huge obstacle that Mr. Lightfoot was determined to find a way to get over.
In 2014, Mr. Lightfoot as a County Legislator was approached by a staff member Tad Mack, who he then shared his vision of a Barber/Beauty Union with. Mr. Mack introduced Mr. Lightfoot to Frannie Sobczak and Rochester Regional Joint Board (Workers United). It was then discovered with the help of RRJB that an Association was the best route to proceed in creating an organization that could legally provide benefits for its members.
The first general meeting was held on June 17, 2015 and the first official board meeting on August 17th, 2015. After months of fine tuning the United Professional Barber and Cosmetologist Association was incorporated on January 15 of 2016, and filed March 3rd of the same year. In addition,. On February 13, 2017, a service agreement was signed by UPBCA to work with the RRJB/ Workers United.
UPBCA currently has standing bylaws that govern it as a nine member board. Many have contributed to the current success of the UPBCA by helping through membership, financial contributions, and service. For a list of our current board, members, and to find out how you can become a part of the UPBCA, the information is on the Website. Also visit our FAQ section for more information.
February 13, 2017 UPBCA signs a service agreement with RRJB / Workers United.