Not only does November 1st mark the first day it is acceptable to play Christmas music, it also ushers in a month of extreme facial hair. This annual tradition among guys is known as No Shave November, or Movember. But did you know there’s more to it than all the guys on campus going caveman for a month? This facial hair phenomenon started in 2003 as a way to raise awareness for testicular and prostate cancer.
The Australian-based Movember Foundation is a non-profit organization “committed to men living happier, healthier, longer lives.” In 2013, the charity that refers to participants as “Mo Bros”, raised $21 million that went towards a number of different programs and causes, including prostate and testicular cancer, mental health, and physical inactivity.
The second cause is No Shave November, which was founded on Facebook in 2009. No Shave November encourages participants to donate money that would otherwise be spent on shaving supplies, instead choosing to let it all grow out. The money donated to No Shave November goes directly towards the American Cancer Society. No Shave November is not exclusively for guys, they need ladies support too! They suggest taking a break from your razor or pushing off your wax until next month.
Movember and No Shave November are more than just excuses for guys to go rugged for a month; they are also to raise awareness. Being surrounded by beards for a month straight might encourage you to make a donation to one of these charities, or encourage you to spread the word. So put the razor down and encourage the guys in your life to do the same!