Sylmar celebrates California's first-ever barbering program inside juvenile hall

Posted on 10/25/2026

Social media influencer and renowned barber Victor "Vic Blends" Fontanez was on hand as Sylmar celebrated the launch of California's first-ever barbering program inside a juvenile hall.

On Saturday, officials celebrated the launch of California’s first juvenile hall barbering academy at Barry J. Nidorf Secure Youth Treatment Facility in Sylmar.

Film Producer Scott Budnick (The Hangover), a volunteer at the correctional facility for over 20 years, invited renowned celebrity barber Victor “VicBlends” Fontanez to mentor the next generation of barbers.

With help from the Los Angeles County Probation Department, the inaugural cohort of 12 young men at VicBlends Academy was selected for their positive behavior, motivation, and commitment to education.

Students, upon release from Barry J. Nidorf, will be eligible to continue barbering school at Santa Monica College.

Fontanez previously started a barber academy at Valley State Prison in Chowchilla, and has donated products to support the students.

Nidorf staff worked with Fontanez to remodel two classrooms, including a modern and state-of-the-art barber studio, in an effort to support academic instruction and hands-on practice.

The inaugural class is expected to graduate in fall of 2027.

Credit: CBS News Los Angeles