City of Evanston issued the following announcement on Feb. 4.
It’s Black History Month! Each week in February, the City will highlight a Black Evanstonian who has made an impact in the local community.
Gigi Giles
IMG_4562Gigi Giles was born and raised in Evanston and refers to it lovingly as “home sweet home.” As the owner of Ebony Barber Shop at 1702 Dodge Ave., Gigi is invested in the community through her business’ outreach efforts and her involvement in community organizations. She believes firmly that “what you put in is what you get out.”
Ebony Barber Shop was originally started by Gigi’s father, Marshall, over 55 years ago. After he passed away, Gigi continued to run the business and carry on her father’s legacy of providing great customer service, quality haircuts, and a strong sense of community.
Gigi gives back through her barbershop by hosting a free Back to School Haircut day annually for children in need. She also runs a coat drive in partnership with the Southeast Evanston Parents Association during the holidays, where customers can select a child’s description from her tree and purchase a coat for them completely anonymously. Not only this, but Gigi often provides food to the hungry and homeless outside of her shop.
Beyond her contributions through the barbershop, Gigi is a member of the ladies organization, Little Black Dress Club, which hosts an annual Girls Day Out. This event brings multiple generations together to celebrate community and get to know one another. Gigi has also served as the President of the Central Evanston Business Association.
Original source can be found here.
Source: City of Evanston
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