When it comes to his abilities as a massage therapist, one of his clients raved: “You will appreciate his professionalism and his light-hearted demeanor. Best of all, you will leave feeling rejuvenated and pampered!”
Aside from being a true, gifted professional in his industry, he has the reputation of being ethical and sincere. Making a difference is on the top of his list. First Contact donates gift certificates and complimentary chair massages to numerous charity events.
Launcelot has found many innovative ways to partner with charitable groups. As an example: For every one who uses his services from August 1, 2007 to August 8, 2008, Mr. Hawk’s company, First Contact, will donate $5 of every hour to the Kempe Children’s Foundation. Doing what he can to prevent and raise awareness about Child Abuse has always been close to Launcelot’s heart. Master Masseuse Hawk, says: “I am also available to donate my time and skills as a volunteer to assist you in any type of auction or gala event that is raising money for your non-profit.”
In today’s fast-paced, maxed-out world, a massage sure sounds like the perfect “I’m getting away from it all” escape – maybe at least for an hour or so?
How long have you been a massage therapist? About 7 years, on my own for the last 4.
When did you decide that this was the career you wanted?
When I got rejected from Barber College (laugh). My dad has worked for himself as far back as I can remember, and my mother had an interest in the alternative health field. So growing up in that environment, and being the kinesthetic, outgoing affectionate person that I am, it certainly made a good fit.
How long did it take you to build up your business to where it is today?
Like the seasons, it’s a constant growth and retracting cycle as companies downsize, reorganize, or multiply. Therefore my marketing is always ongoing.
Massage is very popular these days. How did so many people become aware of all the benefits?
The Asians, the Romans and many other cultures were doing it long ago and were aware of the benefits, but not in such a technical way that we do now. Massage had a negative reputation and connotations to it in the 1960’s, 70’s and 80’s. I think, at least from what I have seen, that it wasn’t until the early 90’s it finally started to earn credibility and legitimacy to its practice and to its benefits.
How do you assist charities with their fundraising efforts?
I have donated many of my gift certificates to many different charities for them to auction off for donations. I have also donated myself several times as a bachelor to bachelor auctions (falling off the catwalk gracefully I might add) as an attempt to raise funds. I have also donated chair massages at different charity events to the donors and participants of the event, along with performing “ambassador” duties to help at the event itself.
Can you mention some of the non-profits you have worked with?
Sure. I have donated several times to The Children’s Hospital, Steele Elementary School, Challenged Athletes Foundation, Rocky Mountain PBS Channels 6 and 12 - as well as the MDR Foundation, Multiple Sclerosis, Mile High Optimist Club, American Stroke Association, The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, The Diana Price Fisher Cancer Foundation, and of course the Kempe Children’s Foundation.
What services do you offer for corporate events & functions?
On-Site Chair Massage. I am equipped with a comfortable, specially designed ergonomic portable massage chair that is non-intrusive, and provides quick relief to common stress points on the body that office jobs and everyday stressors can create.
Who is the most interesting person you have ever met, and why?
I have met many interesting people, a few of “celebrity status” - but they take a back seat to my cousin, Cindy, who died several years ago of lymphoma cancer. Even while she was really sick, she still went to work with a smile on her face, a grateful attitude, a wonderful demeanor, and made an effort of personal contact with each person she met. From looking at her, and her wonderful little spirit, you never would have known she was dying inside.
Why should people pick you as their massage therapist over anyone else?
I am insured, have been engaged in this industry for several years, I am professional, empathetic, and I listen. I have a long list of endorsements of people who I have not “rubbed” the wrong way.
What do you like to do for fun and leisure when you aren't working?
I really crave and put high value on my alone time. But on the extroverted side, I enjoy dancing, (learning country western dances, and would like to take salsa) a good play, and I am just about to be introduced to my first golf lesson. FORE!
Do you have a favorite quote? "The value of a man resides in what he gives and not in what he is capable of receiving." - Albert Einstein
So far, what has been your greatest accomplishment?
When I was a teenager, I was very shy, and I had to work hard to overcome my shyness. I had to convince myself to go out there to approach and interact with people. It’s paid off. I’ve gained confidence in myself and feel like I have evolved.
Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
Continuing to grow, learn and experience - graduating into a more whole and complete person. I would love to be married again, and be living happily ever after.
Also, to be financially free, which to each one of us has a different meaning. For me it’s enough trading and passive income coming in to do what I want to do, when I want do it, and as often as I want to do it. I would absolutely LOVE to rid my life of any alarm clocks someday.
What is something you still want to learn how to do, i.e., a new language, sky-diving, etc.?
I’m currently learning how to trade a couple of different markets (Commodities and FOREX), and that’s pretty exciting to me! I am just starting to learn German, and I have purchased a musical instrument.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
To be who you are, very content in your own skin, and always seeing the world from a positive point of view.
Launcelot Hawk, Certified, Insured Massage Therapist, CIMT, was trained and certified in massage therapy in Colorado. In addition to his certification, he has continued his education with additional studies in Chair Massage, Reflexology, and Healing Cranial/Sacral & Hot Stone Massage. Contact him at 303-521-7735. website: www.firstcontactcolorado.com
