On Saturday, the Valparaiso University Athletic Recreation Center was packed full of various groups participating in the 4th Annual St. Baldrick’s event at the university. Over 100 people volunteered to shave their heads to support the fight against childhood cancer. With the help of donations and fundraisers, the Men’s soccer team aimed to raise over $40,000 to give to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.
Participants of all ages took their turn in getting their heads shaved by individuals from Vanis Cares to show their support. Valparaiso University took on a speed challenge to break the record of most heads shaved within 30 minutes and 10 barbers. They ended up completing 80 people to show their support for the foundation and bring more attention to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.
Among the participants to shave their heads were President Mark Heckler and his wife, Veronica Heckler. President Heckler shared why he continues to support this great event.
“The students that are here leading this campaign are doing everything in their power to help support this really important work. I am here to support not only St. Baldrick’s, but also the students here and what they are doing,” said Heckler.
Hosted by the Valparaiso University’s Men’s soccer team, volunteers for this event included organizations such as: Dance ensemble, Valpo Athletics, cheerleaders, pep band, Be the Match, WVUR, and many more.
Student organizer Tom Serratore brought the event to Valparaiso University and has been working hard to raise funds for St. Baldrick's.
“Even though I am organizing this event, I have had so much help. It’s not just me; it’s not even close to being just me. PRSSA has been a big help and all these people here have been a reason for this event,” said Serratore.
Along with participating in the head shaving, Be the Match offered a booth where anyone could sign up for the bone marrow registry.
Many students came to support the cause. Jeremy Getz, a Valparaiso University student and part of the Student Society of America’s chapter, explained how much this event means to the students involved.
“This event is a great way to gain awareness of childhood cancer. You really see the amount of support when you see students walking around campus with their heads shaved. It’s so great to see people sacrifice their hair for the cause,” said Getz
As the gym was packed with people cheering on individuals getting their heads shaved, you could feel the support for all the groups that volunteered their time and efforts to put on this event today. With the help of donations, time, and some hair, Valparaiso University was able to help out a cause that means a lot to everyone involved.