FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT

Major Gary McClain

Operation Commander/Public Information Officer

870.541.5351-OFFICE/870.329.5638-CELL

Email: gary.mcclain@jeffcoso.org

JEFF CO. SHERIFF'S OFFICE TO PARTICIPATE IN "NO-SHAVE NOVEMBER": Jefferson County, Arkansas - November 4, 2021 - You may have noticed some male deputies with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office sporting some extra facial hair this month, and they are doing so for a good cause to raise awareness for prostate cancer and other men's health issues. 

 

"Just in time for the holiday season, deputies are once again participating in "No Shave November" Sheriff Lafayette Woods said. 

 

During the month of November in previous years, deputies have shown their support for breast cancer awareness by adding a hint of pink to their uniforms, wearing pink handcuffs, and even issuing warning citations for minor infractions in pink ink.  However, this year, Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is partnering with the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation in its "No Shave November" annual campaign.  During the entire month of November, Sheriff Woods has relaxed the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office stringent century-old facial hair policy to allow deputies to forgo shaving in exchange for making a charitable contribution to the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation. 

 

After honoring Mark Hayes, Executive Director of the Arkansas Municipal League, for his support of the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation over the past two years, the foundation invited sheriff deputies, police, and fire departments to participate again while providing recognition and prizes this year. There has even been a traveling trophy added in recognition of the organization that raises the most. Last year's winner, the North Little Rock Police Department, is back to defend their title, having raised over $2,800 last year in support of our free initiatives for men and their families in Arkansas! 

 

"With Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation mission of educating Arkansans by raising awareness, distributing resources, and providing learning opportunities across the State of Arkansas and cancer has affected so many, it was important for our agency to find a way for our deputies to show their support for a cure and the continued fight against the disease.  Raising awareness for prostate and testicular cancer is especially important because the prognosis for these diseases is comparatively good if caught early. The No-Shave November fundraising campaign is a unique and fun way to raise awareness, while also raising funds for cancer research" Sheriff Woods said.  At the conclusion of the month-long campaign, participating agencies will take photos with the winning individuals and teams, as well as the law enforcement or fire department that raises the most. All of these will be featured on the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation website, social media pages, and more, giving everyone an opportunity to get involved, have fun, raise awareness, and raise funds!

 

Female deputies and support staff can participate by painting their fingernails or incorporating a hint of pink in their wardrobe, which signifies awareness for breast cancer or lavender, signifying awareness for all types of cancer.

 

"Raising awareness for breast cancer, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer is especially important because the prognosis for these diseases is comparatively good if caught early.  This campaign and others similar bring awareness to the devastating disease that has claimed so many lives," Sheriff Woods said.