Since it first began twelve years ago, the Forest Hill Barber Shop’s annual charity golf tournament has been a much anticipated event in the local community. This year’s tournament on June 7th saw Nick, Nicola, Mario and Terry and over 150 other golfers (mostly loyal clientele) hitting the links at the Chestnut Hill Golf & Country Club in Richmond Hill. With little fanfare but a lot of hard work, the tournament since its inception has raised over $500,000 for the Hospital for Sick Children.

To those who know them well already, it’s no surprise that the gents of Forest Hill Barber Shop – whose establishment has been in business since 1931 – have done pretty well for themselves. Walk into the shop any day of the week, and you’re greeted by a gregarious bunch chatting and laughing with their customers while they get the best haircuts in town. It’s loud and it’s family, much to the happy surprise of the uninitiated. The warm atmosphere is a nice old-fashioned touch at a time when customer service is at a premium.

Not surprisingly, their clients come back again and again, some just to say hello as they go about their day in the Village running errands. Some have even posted internet tributes, such as the recent video posting on BlogTV of a customer serenading the barber shop . Toronto Life and The Village Post have both recognized the barber shop in the past for its popularity amongst customers. The shop was also honoured three years ago by the Forest Hill Village BIA when Nick Vitantonio received the 2004 Outstanding Citizen of Forest Hill Village Award.

It’s because of this loyal following that a significant portion of the money raised through the golf tournament has come from private donations, along with corporate donations. Clients also contribute raffle prizes, food and refreshments on the day of the festivities, creating a family-style event that’s open to grandpa and grandson alike.

Ultimately though, the success of the tournament is a testament to the Forest Hill Barber Shop’s generosity of spirit. If you would like to be a part of the golf tournament next year, please contact (416) 485-1335, or better yet, stop by the shop and get a haircut!