Join March 14 Shamrock Shave which has raised over $400,000 in 11 years
Eleven years of shaving heads has raised over $400,000 for local charities! Join in the 12th annual Shamrock Shave fundraiser to raise even more on Saturday, March 14, at St. Margaret Mary Parish in Algonquin.
Founded in 2008, the Shamrock Shave Charity benefit has quickly grown to become a major area fundraising event. Organizers estimate that over 40 men, women and children will shave their heads to raise money for community families in need and for cancer research.
Seven years ago, the Algonquin-Lake in the Hills Fire Protection District formed a "Charity Challenge Team" for the event.
Not to be outdone, the Algonquin Police Department joined in the fun three years ago and the results have been dramatic. This year, Algonquin police and fire are putting together "Team Jack" to help raise money for a local teenager Jack Martin, who was diagnosed last October with Stage 4 Ewing Sarcoma.
The community is welcome to put together a charity team of six people or more that can raise a minimum of $150 per shavee and in return you will receive back one third of the monies you raise for your own charity.
According to Jonna Burck, event chair, "The Shamrock Shave is an awesome and inspiring event that brings the entire community together. This year we are welcoming our heroes in the police and fire department, while also raising money for two great causes. We hope to raise even more money for charity, shave more heads, and have even more 'Irish' family fun."
The "Shamrock Shave" combines food, fun, entertainment, and head shaving.
The event starts with a traditional Irish dinner of corned beef and cabbage or chicken nuggets for the kids at 5:30 p.m. in St. Margaret Mary's School gymnasium and cafeteria, with all dinner proceeds also being donated to charity.
The "Mane" festivities begin at 6:45 p.m. with an opening ceremony that includes the Dundee Scottish Bagpipers and then head shavings staggered throughout the evening.
Stylists from local hair salons have volunteer their time, and other local businesses are sponsoring the event with food and monetary donations.
All event proceeds will be donated to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, local families in need, and Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation.
Between the head shavings, and back by popular demand, Mayer School of Irish Dance will be performing as well as a local band, Invisible Ink.
As a fun-filled family event, there will also be a Jig Contest, a "Best Irish Costume" contest, kid's activities, and raffles, all in a fun St. Patrick's Day party atmosphere.
Admission at the door is $2 or $1 for children, or no charge with a meal purchase.
The St. Margaret Mary Education Center is at Eastgate Drive and Algonquin Road in Algonquin. For more information, visit www.saintmargaretmary.org/shave.