Sandahl Taylor, Galaxy Ambassador and Mrs. US Galaxy 2024/2025, is also SITI Girl Honors Woman of the Year in Pittsburgh and a top finalist for the international contest being announced this November.
Sandahl Taylor’s life mission is all about making a difference, one heartfelt connection at a time. As the founder of the nonprofit Connecting Hearts, Changing Lives, Sandahl has been tirelessly working to uplift the most vulnerable in society, offering them more than just basic necessities. Her organization was built on the belief that everyone deserves dignity and care, whether through a fresh haircut, essential services, or simply someone to listen.
The Birth of Connecting Hearts, Changing Lives
Sandahl’s passion for community service began in 2005 after her father suffered a heart attack and stroke that left him paralyzed on his left side. It was a life-altering moment for Sandahl, who began her journey by working with the American Heart Association. She became a Healthy for Life facilitator and an Empowered to Serve ambassador, teaching heart health education in low-income communities.
However, as she worked with these underserved populations, Sandahl quickly realized that many people needed more than just education on heart health—they needed tangible support. That’s when she decided to expand her efforts. What started as an initiative focused on health evolved into something much bigger, culminating in the creation of Connecting Hearts, Changing Lives.
“I realized that while I was teaching people about heart health, they needed so much more than that. People were struggling to meet their basic needs, like food, shelter, and hygiene,” Sandahl explained. “I wanted to give them a little piece of their dignity back.”
Free Haircuts and More
One of the most powerful services Sandahl offers is free haircuts. For years, she has volunteered her cosmetology skills to provide haircuts to homeless individuals, veterans, and low-income families. She has worked with organizations like the Veterans Leadership Program and Alive Ministries, offering not just a haircut, but a boost in confidence and self-worth.
“Giving someone a haircut might seem small, but it means so much. It’s about more than just appearance. It’s about giving people a part of themselves back,” Sandahl said. “When you give someone the opportunity to feel good about themselves, you empower them to take the next step in their lives, whether it’s preparing for a job interview or just feeling human again.”
A Vision for the Future
Though Connecting Hearts, Changing Lives is still in its early stages, Sandahl has big dreams. She is working to secure grants that will allow her to expand the nonprofit’s reach. Her ultimate goal is to create a mobile haircut truck that can travel to underserved areas, offering haircuts and hygiene services on the go. The mobile unit will also partner with healthcare organizations to provide medical screenings and other essential services to homeless populations and low-income communities.
“I envision a future where we can pull up to a homeless camp, a low-income neighborhood, or a veterans’ community, and offer not just haircuts, but healthcare, basic necessities, and more,” Sandahl shared. “It’s about creating a support network that can go where it’s needed most.”
Overcoming Challenges
Like many nonprofit founders, Sandahl has faced her share of challenges, including funding difficulties. Currently, she is personally funding much of Connecting Hearts, Changing Lives and is in search of grant writers to help her secure the financial backing she needs to grow her services.
Another challenge is her health. Sandahl has been diagnosed with early-onset cataracts, which have already affected her vision. Despite this, she continues her work with passion and dedication, knowing that her efforts are changing lives.
“I don’t know what the future holds for my vision, but I do know that I’ll keep doing this work for as long as I can,” Sandahl said. “Everyone has a skill, whether it’s listening, giving their time, or helping with a smile. We all have something to offer.”
How You Can Help
As Connecting Hearts, Changing Lives continues to grow, Sandahl welcomes support from volunteers and donors. She founded this organization not only as a personal goal and passion but to leave a legacy for her family, as well. Whether it’s through providing grant-writing assistance, helping with events, or volunteering time, there are many ways to get involved. Sandahl’s passion for helping others is infectious, and she believes that with the right support, her nonprofit can become a beacon of hope for many more people in need.
To learn more about Connecting Hearts, Changing Lives or to volunteer, visit their Instagram page or contact Sandahl directly. Together, we can change lives, one heart at a time.
Leave a Comment