According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 101.6 million Americans participated in hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities in 2016 (40% of the entire population). Many of these outdoor enthusiasts look the part, as well, rocking all kinds of powerful beards.
Though beards used to be exclusively for country singers and cowboys, facial hair has tremendously grown in popularity over the last few years. Everyone from college kids to professional athletes are growing beards of various styles nowadays. Though 18% of Statista survey respondents use beard care products on a daily basis, many people let their facial hair grow in all kinds of straggly and unconventional ways.
Over the next few weeks, all kinds of different beards will be on display throughout the much-anticipated No Shave November.
No Shave November is a month-long event during which participants forgo shaving in order to evoke conversation and raise cancer awareness. The organization was created by a Chicago family of 8 siblings who lost their father after a battle with colon cancer in November of 2007. Since then, No Shave November has helped raise over $2 million.
Across the country, millions of people will likely not shave their facial hair, growing their beards in support of this great cause. Even police departments, which have been historically stringent when it comes to facial hair, are celebrating their officer’s beards this year.
Here are some of the most notable police departments participating in this year’s No Shave November:
Reading Police Department, Pennsylvania
According to the Reading Patch, the Reading Police Department will once again participate in the month-long event. Officers who will participate will also pledge $100 to Home Base, a Boston Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital program dedicated to helping September 11 veterans and their families who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, have a traumatic brain injury, or other related conditions.
“Home Base is a tremendously important cause, which we’re pleased to continue to support,” said Deputy Chief David Clark. “I expect that several of our officers will once again be involved in this fun and worthy fundraiser.”
Chelmsford Police Department, Massachusetts
Chelmsford Wicket Local reports that officers from the Chelmsford Police Department are also participating in No Shave November to spread cancer awareness and support Home Base, as well.
“I am proud of our officers for supporting this incredible cause,” added Chelmsford Police Chief James Spinney. “Home Base provides essential services to veterans and we are honored to continue to help fulfill its mission.”
Currently, the first responder No Shave November campaign has raised over $200,000 for Home Base.
Fayetteville Police Department, Arkansas
According to NWA Homepage, Fayetteville Police Department officers can either donate $20 to participate in No Shave November or contribute $10 to receive a mustache lapel pin to wear on their uniform in support. This year’s contributions will go to Arkansas Children’s Hospital Northwest.
Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Texas
The Paper adds that on behalf of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Sheriff Rand Henderson of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office has authorized a No Shave November for employees as a way to support communities battling cancer.
To participate, employees must make a one-time charitable donation of $50 to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.