Growing a beard out in the month of November is nothing new to senior Mike Donahue, as he has participated in No-Shave November for the past couple of years.

A team tradition

Donahue, a member of the football team, said he has participated in No-Shave November for a few years now with teammates.

“It’s really for anyone who chooses to participate,” Donahue said. “I try to grow a beard every year to show my support.”

According to Donahue, he participates to bring attention to health issues.

“I do (No-Shave November) because it’s fun and helps raise awareness for different issues regarding men’s health,” Donahue said. “It’s just kind of fun to grow a beard, too.”

Organization history

No-Shave November began in 2009 following the death of the founders’ father, Matthew Hill, to colon cancer, according to Christine Hill, the orginization’s director of marketing & public relations.

“In 2007, we lost our father to cancer,” Hill said. “We wanted to do something in his memory and help combat cancer for all who are impacted by it.”

According to Hill, No-Shave November is dedicated to raising awareness about various forms of cancer.

“No-Shave November is a web-based, non-profit organization devoted to growing cancer awareness and raising funds to support cancer prevention, research and education,” Hill said.

Hill said the appeal of No-Shave November stems from the ease of participation and the universal cause.

“Nearly everyone is affected by cancer in one way or another,” Hill said. “No-Shave November was started in 2009 as a way anyone affected by the disease could give back and show their support, regardless of age, gender or income level, by raising money to fight cancer, spreading awareness and (having) fun doing it.”

How students can get involved

According to Hill, participation does not take more than growing any kind of hair or showing support for someone who is.

“We encourage everyone to participate. You can grow any hair in support of the cause,” Hill said. “In fact, we hope you do.”

Sophomore Andreina Rodriguez said she would participate to learn more about cancer.

“I would do (No-Shave November) because if it involves helping cancer patients or learning more stuff about cancer, I’m down for the job,” Rodriguez said.

Hill said more who show support for the organization’s cause, the better.

“Many of our participants set up local events in their communities to raise awareness and donations for the cause,” Hill said.

According to Hill, No-Shave November is important because it gives everyone a chance to make a difference in a quirky way.

“No-Shave November is an easy and fun way anyone can participate to help spread awareness and raise funds to combat cancer,” Hill said. “No-Shave offers us all a chance to help make a difference in a fun and unique way.”