St. Margaret Mary Parish to host Shamrock Shave benefit
Introduced six years ago with low expectations, the Shamrock Shave benefit has quickly grown to become a major area fundraising event at St. Margaret Mary Parish in Algonquin.
Recently, St. Margaret Mary Parish was recognized with a Community Service Award from the village of Algonquin due to the success of the Shamrock Shave and its positive impact on the community the last six years.
On Saturday, March 15, organizers estimate that over 50 men, women and children will shave their heads to raise money for community families in need and for cancer research.
This year's Shamrock Shave will combine fun, food, entertainment, and head shaving in an effort to raise money for two very worthwhile causes. All event proceeds and pledges will be donated to the St. Vincent DePaul Society to support community families in need, and to Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation. This year will also once again feature teams of Shavees from the Algonquin Fire Department and the Knights of Columbus.
Last year's Shamrock Shave event raised more than $38,000, with more than 500 adults and children in attendance. This year, event organizers hope for even more success. According to Jonna Burck, event chairwoman, "The Shamrock Shave is a unique fundraising event that brings the entire community together to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, while also raising money for two great causes. Last year, once again, the Shave exceeded all of our expectations. This year we hope to raise even more money for charity, shave more heads, and have even more 'Irish' family fun."
The event starts with a traditional Irish dinner of corned beef and cabbage at 5:30 p.m. in St. Margaret Mary's School gym and cafeteria, with dinner proceeds also being donated to charity. The "Mane" festivities begin at 6:45 p.m. with head shavings staggered throughout the evening. Stylists from local hair salons have volunteered their time to perform the shavings, and other local businesses are sponsoring the event with food and monetary donations.
Between the head shavings, and back by popular demand, local favorite and Milwaukee Summerfest veteran Katie Scullin will be performing classic and contemporary favorites. Mayer School of Irish Dance will also be performing to start the evening. A fun-filled family event, there will also be a Jig Contest, a "Best Irish Costume" contest, kid's activities, door prizes, and raffles all in a fun St. Patrick's Day party atmosphere.
Admission is $2 at the door for adults and $1 for children, and at no charge with a meal purchase. The St. Margaret Mary Education Center is at the corner of Eastgate and Algonquin roads in Algonquin. For information, visit www.saintmargaretmary.org/shave.