Appalachian State University’s Kappa Sigma fraternity will hold a head-shaving event to raise money for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a childhood cancer research center, Saturday.

Started by founders Tim Kenny, John Bender and Enda McDonnell in 1999, St. Baldrick’s is a national cancer research charity that donates 100 percent of its proceeds to programs treating children with childhood cancer.

The fundraising goal for the head-shaving event has been set at $2,500, though in the three weeks that the program has been underway, $1,665 has been raised.

“The idea to shave students’ heads for money all started when a Kappa Sigma alum said that we could all use a haircut, and then we got the idea: Raise money for children through St. Baldrick’s,” said Jonathan Bolanos, vice president of Kappa Sigma.

James McKinley, the lead treasurer for Kappa Sigma, said that students don’t have to shave their heads to help. Students, faculty and off-campus residents are welcome to participate in the event.

“We already have about 25 people lined up to have their heads shaved,” McKinley said. “But even if you do not want to shave your head, you can still donate and make a difference.”

Since 2005, the national charity has been able to collect $100 million in grants, with $30 million in the year 2012 alone.
“Every year we try and step it up, so it was natural that we do this event for our national day of service,” said McKinley.

There is no minimum donation amount.

“People have been donating anything from $10 to $500 for the cause,” McKinley said. “It’s just great to see people take the time to make a difference, no matter how big or small the donation.”

Donors can give money under their names, anonymously or under another name, or they can sponsor a child.

The Kappa Sigma Fraternity hopes that this will become an annual event.

“I would love to see it become a tradition on campus so we can keep contributing to the greater cause,” McKinley said.

The event will take place in the Three Top Mountain Room in the Plemmons Student Union from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Story: NINA MASTANDREA, Intern News Reporter