O’Neil Curtis was born and raised in North Baton Rouge. He experienced firsthand the complications that disrupt the lives of children as a result of growing up in poverty and systemic racism. His own life was changed by several mentors who put him on the path to success.  He became an honor student in high school and, after graduation, worked three jobs until opening his barbershop at age 21.

At his shop, O’Neil encourages young men to read voraciously through Line4Line. Young people come in, select a book, and read in exchange for a free haircut. O’Neil and his team have become quiet angels for thousands of boys and young men. Showing care, listening, providing guidance and helping them see possibility and reach their potential.

In 2016 he established his Line4Line non-profit built around his barbershop literacy mentoring program. He has opened a permanent lending library on-site distributing more than 50 books each week. He hopes to expand Line4Line to broaden the impact within his community and beyond.