LIHUE — The Kauai Police Department is getting hairy for a cause.
During the month of November, KPD employees are encouraged to participate in “No-Shave/Let Your Hair Down November” to raise funds for the American Cancer Society of Hawaii – Kauai branch.
“For the month of November, we are relaxing our dress-code policy on facial hair, beards and ponytails, to give our employees an opportunity to participate in a great cause,” said KPD Acting Chief Michael Contrades. “We want to share in this tradition that began years ago, and pay tribute to our own families and friends who have lost loved ones to cancer, by raising money for the American Cancer Society of Hawaii – Kauai branch.”
Interested employees of KPD are asked to pledge a donation and they in turn will be able to grow a beard or goatee, or wear their hair in a ponytail or corn roll, while at work for the entire month of November.
No-Shave November began as just a tradition for a Chicago family, to pay tribute to their father, Matthew Hill, who passed away from colon cancer in November 2007.
Then in 2009, Hill’s family started a web-based, non-profit organization, “No-Shave November,” and began raising funds to fight cancer. The organization has grown tremendously since 2009, with an ongoing goal of raising funds for cancer-prevention, education and research, while letting hair grow as a symbol for the cause.
“No-Shave November was created to be a month-long journey where participants forgo any shaving or grooming in an effort to start conversation and raise cancer awareness,” said Patti Ornellas, Kauai senior community development manager in the ACS West Region.
The ACS also has its own program, GrowNation, where, throughout the year, individuals, businesses and organizations can support the ACS’ lifesaving mission by growing out their hair.
“I’d like to thank all of our officers and employees for their enthusiasm and support in this effort to raise awareness for cancer prevention here on Kauai,” said Contrades. “To those who continue to battle cancer, stay strong, and remember that your friends in blue are with you all.”
