KPD participates in ‘No-Shave November’

KPD is once again participating in the “No-Shave November” project to raise funds for the American Cancer Society of Hawai‘i – Kaua‘i Branch. Contributed photo

Once again, the Kaua‘i 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 Hawai‘i – Kaua‘i Branch, according to a news release by the County of Kaua‘i.

“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 Kaua‘i Police Department is proud to support this great cause,” KPD Chief Todd Raybuck said. “Throughout the month of November, we are relaxing our dress code policy 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 Kaua‘i.”

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 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.

Sgt. Darla Nonaka and Sgt. Lance Okasaki during last year’s “No-Shave/Let Your Hair Down November.” Contributed photo

“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, senior community development manager of the American Cancer Society Kaua‘i Field Office. “American Cancer Society also has its own program, GrowNation, where throughout the year, individuals, businesses, and organizations can support the American Cancer Society’s lifesaving mission by growing out their hair. We thank the Kaua‘i Police Department for participating in this effort once again; with their help, the American Cancer Society will fight cancer on all fronts. 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.”

About American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of nearly 1.5 million volunteers dedicated to saving lives, celebrating lives, and leading the fight for a world without cancer. From breakthrough research, to free lodging near treatment, a 24/7/365 live helpline, free rides to treatment, and convening powerful activists to create awareness and impact, the American Cancer Society is attacking cancer from every angle. Visit cancer.org or call your local Kaua‘i Field Office at 808-246-0695 for more information.

Cpt. Mark Ozaki during last year’s “No-Shave/Let Your Hair Down November.” Contributed photo