The Stevens Police Department’s (SPD) No-Shave November fundraiser this year was a resounding success, blending community spirit, creativity, and charitable giving into a memorable campaign. Co-sponsored by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 219, the initiative raised $650 from participants and donors, a total matched by the FOP to reach an impressive $1,100 donation for Fight Colorectal Cancer, a nonprofit dedicated to research, education, and patient support.
Throughout November, Stevens Police officers and campus community members came together to put down their razors and embrace the challenge. The concept was simple yet powerful: participants grew their facial hair—or skipped grooming routines—to symbolize solidarity with cancer patients who lose their hair during treatment. Officers used the savings from grooming as donations to advance cancer awareness and prevention efforts.
The campaign featured various ways to get involved. Community members could participate by donating a minimum of $25, joining the “StevensPD/FOP 219” team via the No-Shave November website or contributing directly through PayPal or at the police headquarters. The inclusive approach also allowed for “silent” supporters — those who opted not to grow out their hair but still made meaningful contributions to the cause.
Beyond those participating, the awareness of the fundraiser spread across the campus community. Social media platforms buzzed with updates, photos, and reminders to donate, keeping the momentum alive throughout the month. Participants and supporters shared pictures of their growing beards, goatees, and mustaches, celebrating the spirit of the challenge. The month concluded with a group photo of participants, capturing the camaraderie and shared commitment of everyone involved.
What set this effort apart was the sense of community that permeated every aspect of the fundraiser. While individual contributions played a crucial role, the collective effort underscored a greater message: by coming together, even a small campus community can make a big impact. The $1,100 raised will support Fight Colorectal Cancer’s vital work, including patient assistance, advocacy initiatives, and life-saving research.
In addition to the tangible outcomes, No-Shave November highlighted the power of creative engagement in raising awareness. By forgoing grooming routines, participants sparked conversations about cancer prevention and care, drawing attention to the cause in an approachable and impactful way.
SPD has long been a pillar of support for both the campus and the broader community, and this year’s No-Shave November campaign was another shining example of its dedication. As participants return to their razors, they carry with them the pride of having made a difference and the hope that next year’s campaign will be even more successful, along with other philanthropic endeavors, like the SPD food drive that ended successfully right before Thanksgiving.
From the fundraising efforts to the visual reminders of unity, the event proved that small gestures can inspire significant change. Through hair grown and funds raised, SPD and its supporters showcased the enduring strength of community action in tackling one of the world’s most challenging diseases.
