When Naomi McCullock first started selling Mary Kay cosmetics in July 2014, she did so because she knew how using the products changed how she viewed herself. “I know how great it makes me feel,” McCullock said. “It gives you more pride in yourself.”
McCullock wanted to help others feel that special, which is why she began selling the products. It’s also why she came to the Nest recently to give the residents a free workshop and give them a taste of the confidence that comes from looking and feeling good.
“Giving back to the community is big to me,” McCullock said. “I think I get more out of it than they do.”
During the visit, McCullock gave full makeovers to the residents, starting with “satin hands,” making their hands as smooth as silk.
Then came the facials, with some residents ending up looking radically different.
“They get to pick the colors and different things they want to try, just to see how they look,” McCullock said. “I also gave them pointers on what to wear in certain occasions, giving them more confidence.”
While some were guarded – not surprising, given the horrific conditions they came from – some ope
ned up immediately to what McCullock was offering. Those who were more reserved eventually opened up as the workshop proceeded.
“This gives them confidence and they feel better,” McCullock said. “These courageous women have been through a lot, I can’t even imagine. Anything I can do to help them, I need to do.”
McCullock said the experience was so rewarding, she plans to return to the Nest on a regular basis to continue the makeovers. As the residents rotate through, she’ll have a new audience each time.
There’s also a possibility the residents could make a little extra money as a Mary Kay representative, but that’s not really the point.
“If they’re interested, that’s great, but they don’t have to,” McCullock said. “Seeing the smile on their face when they see how they’ve changed, and to see their pride is incredibly rewarding. Mary Kay does a lot like this, giving back to the community,” she added. “I’m glad I could be a part of it.”
McCullock can be reached at 561-635-7920 or at omired@aol.com.