LIHUE — Once again, the Kauai Police Department is getting hairy for a cause.
During November, KPD employees are encouraged to participate in “No-Shave/Let Your Hair Down November” to raise funds for the American Cancer Society Kauai branch.
“Everyone has been touched by cancer in some way. In honor of survivors everywhere and those who have lost their lives and loved ones to cancer, the Kauai Police Department is proud to support this great cause,” said KPD Chief Todd Raybuck.
“Throughout the month of November, we are relaxing our dress code to allow our employees the opportunity to support the American Cancer Society and join our community in the fight for cancer prevention, treatment and awareness. I’d like to thank all of our officers and employees for their enthusiasm and effort to raise awareness here on Kauai,” Raybuck said.
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 cornrows, while at work for the entire month of November.
No-Shave November began as a tradition for a Chicago family to pay tribute to their father, Matthew Hill, who passed away from colon cancer in November 2007.
In 2009, Hill’s family started a web-based, nonprofit 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 forego any shaving in an effort to start conversations and raise cancer awareness, said Patti Ornellas, senior community development manager of the ACS Kauai Field Office.
The ACS has its own program, GrowNation, where, throughout the year, individuals, businesses and organizations can support the ACS’ lifesaving mission by growing out their hair.
“We thank the Kauai Police Department for participating in this effort once again. With their help, the American Cancer Society will fight cancer on all fronts,” Ornellas said.
“The funds raised through programs like GrowNation mean more breakthrough research, and will also provide rides to chemo treatments, access to a live 24/7 helpline, free lodging for treatment away from home, and so much more,” she said.
