Canadian Schools Celebrate “Movember”

Students sport “the ‘stache” for a good cause.

Students all over Canada are selectively shaving in support of prostate cancer, as “Movember” is in full swing. Moustaches are popping up all over campuses, and many student groups are doing their part to raise awareness.

The Oshawa Express reported that University of Ontario Institute of Technology hockey player John McCullogh is squaring off against Durham College basketball player Tyler McGarrity, in a “grow off” to raise funds.

Movember events and happenings are everywhere. From “shave offs” to kick off the month at Saint Mary’s University, to a Movember Much Music Dance Party at Cambrian College.

What started in Melbourne, Australia as a campy way to raise money has exploded into an international fundrasing phenomenon in less than a decade.

In 2004, 432 “Mo Bros” raised $55,000 for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, which represented the largest donation they ever received. In 2009, there were 255,755 global participants and one million donors, who raised over $47 million.

Last year, Canada’s campaign was the second largest contribution (Australia was 1st) with 35,156 participants raising $7.8 million for Prostate Cancer Canada. If you would like to donate or participate visit the Movember official website for more information.

Are you participating in Movember? Let us know in the comments.