Brownwood Native Renee Carrathus Honored for Philanthropy and Community Service

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Renee Carrathus, a lifelong resident of Brownwood, Texas, is being spotlighted for her work as a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and community leader. Carrathus owns a local hair salon, Renee's House of Elegance, and also helps run her family's longtime barbecue business, Smitty's BBQ. In addition to her business ventures, Carrathus is actively involved in her church's youth ministry, the Juneteenth Planning Committee, and organizing summer activities for local youth.

Why it matters

Carrathus' story highlights the important role that Black entrepreneurs and community leaders play in Brownwood. As a lifelong resident, she has dedicated herself to uplifting the next generation and preserving the legacy of Black-owned businesses in the area.

The details

After graduating from Brownwood High School in 1985, Carrathus attended cosmetology school and worked in Austin before returning to her hometown in 1992. With the help of her father, she opened Renee's House of Elegance, a local hair salon. As her father's health declined, Carrathus also took on a leadership role at the family's longtime barbecue restaurant, Smitty's BBQ, keeping the 57-year-old business running smoothly. In addition to her entrepreneurial work, Carrathus is deeply involved in the Brownwood community, leading the youth ministry at her church and organizing summer activities and events through groups like the Juneteenth Planning Committee.

• Renee Carrathus graduated from Brownwood High School in 1985.
• Carrathus opened Renee's House of Elegance in Brownwood in 1992.
• Smitty's BBQ, the family business founded by Carrathus' father, has been operating for 57 years.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Carrathus and her family will be honored at the annual Juneteenth celebration in Brownwood this June, where she is expected to receive a special community service award.