By Heather Collins
The Boone County Sheriff’s Office is raising money for the Boone County Cancer Society during the third annual No Shave November campaign.
No Shave November is an online, nonprofit organization that has partnered with the American Cancer Society to help raise awareness in the fight against cancer. The fundraiser will extend through next month with the Santa Beard December campaign.
Participating BCSO employees, including deputies and jail staff, have donated $40 to the Boone County Cancer Society to be allowed to grow out their beards in support of the campaign. Employees can also participate in the Santa Beard December campaign with a total donation of $100 for both months. BCSO employees must still adhere to department policy for grooming standards, but some standards will be relaxed in support of the program.
The BCSO wanted to remind the public that if they see a deputy with facial hair, it is not a lack of hygiene but support of the charity campaign.
Women interested in participating in the program will receive a bracelet and “Handcuffing Cancer” T-shirt upon receipt of their donation. The public is encouraged to grow a beard and donate funds to the Boone County Cancer Society. “Handcuffing Cancer” T-shirts are available at BCSO and cost $15.
Sheriff Mike Nielsen is a nine-year cancer survivor, and he said he tries to do everything he can to support the Boone County Cancer Society. Last year, the campaign raised more than $4,000. This year, the campaign has already raised $2,200 of its $5,000 goal.
“All of the funds stay within Boone County to treat those folk who are facing this horrible disease in Boone County,” Nielsen said.
The sheriff’s office asks that donations be submitted by check only and delivered to the attention of Chris Burcham BCCS No Shave- November, Boone County Sheriff’s Office, 1905 Indianapolis Ave., Lebanon, IN 46052. Make checks payable to “Boone County Sheriff’s Office – BCCS”. All proceeds will go to the Boone County Cancer Society. For more, visit no-shave.org or contact the local Boone County Cancer Society at boonecancersociety.org or 765-482-2043.
