Millertyme's Barber Shop owner celebrates 30 years of community impact in Louisville

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- For Mark Miller, owner of Millertyme's Barber Shop, cutting hair has always been about more than just fresh fades.

Since opening his shop in the Parkland neighborhood in 1995, Miller has used his time, talent, and resources to positively impact the community, helping change and even save lives.

"I've got a lot left in my tank," Miller said.

WEST LOUISVILLE BARBER 30 YEARS (2).jpeg — Mark Miller, owner of Millertyme's Barber Shop, is celebrating 30 years in business. (WDRB photo)

Miller's shop, located on Dumesnil Street in Louisville, is celebrating a significant milestone this year.

The barbershop’s motto, "Where Lookin' Good is Understood," has become a symbol of Miller’s lasting presence in the area, where thousands of clients have passed through his doors over the years.

Longtime customer Bryan Kinnard, who’s been coming to Miller for over two decades, describes Miller as more than just a barber.

"I call him my uncle," Kinnard said. "He's helped me tremendously to change my life, and I know others who feel the same way."

Kinnard credits Miller with being a reliable figure during difficult times.

“I could think of plenty of times when I was making bad decisions,” he said. “Mark was there to help me think about where my life would go.”

Miller’s impact extends beyond haircuts. Local leaders, like Metro Councilwoman Tammy Hawkins, praise his barbershop as a "safe space" for people facing mental illness, homelessness, and other challenges.

Hawkins is now seeking a proclamation to honor Miller for his community service.

“Mark’s generosity has helped people in all sorts of situations. He has opened his doors to people who needed a warm place to stay or a meal," Hawkins said. “There were times when parents couldn’t afford to get their kids’ haircuts, and Mark would make sure they were taken care of.”

Miller’s contributions have included offering free haircuts for kids and discounted services for seniors.

For 21 years, he has dedicated Wednesdays to providing $5 haircuts for children and seniors, showing his deep commitment to those in need.

“My biggest reward is when people who were struggling come back clean and thank me for the support,” Miller shared. “I’ve helped people out of the cold, offered sandwiches, and even offered a safe place for those going through tough times.”

In the community, Miller has seen many lives transformed.

“I’ve seen people come out of prison, and with continued support, they’ve found jobs and built families,” he said.

Miller’s legacy is not only in the haircuts but in the connections he's built with his customers.

“I’ve been doing this for over 40 years, and I’m proud of what I’ve done for the community,” he said.

Though Miller will soon be honored for his work, his dedication to his customers and community continues.

“I’m not retiring anytime soon. I’ve got a lot more to give,” he added.

As Miller celebrates 30 years of being a business owner, his customers, like Kinnard, recognize the lasting impact he's had on their lives.

"Mark gives back to the community in ways most don’t see," Kinnard said. “He's more than just a barber – he’s a mentor, a friend, and a pillar of the community."

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