AURORA, Colo. – Choosing to be in law enforcement usually means that men will have to forego facial hair, at least anything more than a mustache, during their time in uniform. But during the month of No Shave November, the Aurora Police Department has given some of their officers a chance to sprout a little more hair.
“We love our community. We are inclusive in our community,” Division Chief Harry Glidden said while talking about his goatee.
“Anytime I can do to help support Special Olympics and get the benefit of having a goatee, I am a happy human being,” he said.
Glidden is one of about 70 officers who have donated money to the Special Olympics Colorado Law Enforcement Torch Run in exchange for a pin giving them permission to grow facial hair.
“One of the questions we always get is how women can participate,” Aurora Sgt. Cassidee Carlson said. “One of the ways they came up with is they would donate and do No Bun November, meaning they wouldn't put their hair in a bun."
The Aurora Police Department has raised $4,000 for the Torch Run in 2018. Through this campaign and others, police departments across the state have raised $1 million this year – money that will go a long way for Special Olympics Colorado athletes like Chris McElroy.
“We can compete and stay in the dorm rooms in Grand Junction for free,” said McElroy when talking about the state summer game. “I want to thank all the police officers for their service and keep us safe and sound in Aurora and all over country."
If you’re interested in learning more about Special Olympics Colorado, whether as a participant, volunteer or donor, you can visit their website.
Denver7 employeesJason Gruenauer and Russell Haythorn are also growing beards during the month of November as part of the Denver NovemBEARD campaign. Their beards are meant to raise awareness and funds for the American Cancer Society.
