What's Happening in Springfield, MA…

The West Springfield Police Department is currently participating in No-Shave November during which time participants will grow beards and mustaches in efforts to raise awareness about cancer. Participants also need to raise $50 each, which will go towards funding research efforts at Mercy Hospital.

Robert Duffy, Interim Chief of the Police Department, has given participants permission to grow facial hair for this second annual fundraiser, although it is against department policy for professional and safety reasons. Those outside the department can support an officer or donate money directly to the department.

Duffy added that most people are affected by cancer in some way, so whatever can be done to combat cancer will be helpful in the long run.

Officer Lance Stowell started the fundraiser last year, during which time close to $2,500 was raised by the department. The expectation is that this amount will be doubled this year.

The idea of No-Shave November is to encourage participants to donate the money used for grooming during the month to raise awareness and educate the public about cancer. Embracing body hair is the premise, as many cancer patients lose it during their treatments.

Flyer printing can be used by departments such as this one to highlight what is being done by its members to raise awareness about such causes, and publicize fundraising efforts.