Sacramento, CA – Twenty-five small businesses from throughout the 41st Assembly District were nominated this year for consideration and in a ceremony in Sacramento yesterday, Assemblymember Chris Holden honored La Verne resident and local area Sport Clips franchise owner Arif Taj as the “Small Business of the Year” for the 41st Assembly District.
“It is my pleasure to recognize Arif Taj of Sport Clips Haircuts for his impactful contribution to the community as a small business owner, and the differences he has made to other people’s lives,” said Assemblymember Holden.
Taj started his first Sport Clips Haircuts franchise in 2008. He is now a proud owner of five Sport Clips Haircuts, including two in the 41st district, La Verne and Upland and one in Rancho Cucamonga just outside of the district.
With each store Taj opens, he partners with a local non-profit and offers free haircuts with a small donation for each Grand Opening weekend, with all proceeds going towards the designated non-profit. Taj received five separate nominations with one being from Lisa McKay, Community Development Liaison, from Casa Colina Hospital who stated, “to say that Arif has a heart for philanthropy would be an understatement.” Taj visited the Hospital campus and named Casa Colina the beneficiary to receive all the proceeds from Sport Clips’ Grand Opening. “And the following year he did it again, donating over $5,000 to our Foundation,” stated McKay.
Taj continues his unwavering support to the community by providing opportunities for growth and development of his team, many being young women. “I consider Arif a model citizen, entrepreneur, and friend” said Saed Albasha, a member of the Glendora Chamber of Commerce. “He inspires younger and older people alike in his positive and wise discussions.”
In his free time, Taj volunteers with organizations such as Life Rolls On, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for young people affected by spinal cord injury and Union Station Homeless Services.
Taj was joined by his wife Susan, daughter Shamaila and son Somair at the California Small Business Day recognition in Sacramento.
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