Students and staff at Amos Alonzo Stagg High School traded their hair for a cause Friday, filling the gym with cheers, music and the buzz of clippers during the school’s annual fundraiser for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.
The March 13 event brought together students, teachers and volunteers who shaved their heads, donated money and took part in activities to support childhood cancer research.
The fundraiser took place at the high school, 8015 W. 111th St., Palos Hills.
Leah Ellis, a school counselor at Stagg, said the event has been part of the school’s culture for decades.
“Stagg has been involved for as long as I have been here, which has been 21 years, probably even years before that,” Ellis said.
Each year, about 10 to 15 students and staff members sign up in advance to have their heads shaved. On the day of the event, many more people join in by donating money or participating in other activities.
To make the event more inclusive, organizers also offered hair braiding and glitter extensions for students who wanted to show their support without shaving their heads.
“We try to get a wider group involved,” Ellis said.
Volunteers from Tricoci University of Beauty Culture in Bridgeview donated their time to perform the head shavings, bringing professional clippers and plenty of enthusiasm to the event.
The day also included musical performances and bagpipers, adding to the lively atmosphere while raising awareness for childhood cancer research.
Money raised from the fundraiser benefits Julia’s Legacy of Hope, which honors the daughter of a retired teacher in the district who died from cancer. Funds raised by the district’s schools help support a research grant focused on the specific type of cancer she battled.
Organizers hoped to raise close to $10,000 through this year’s event.
Ellis also thanked the staff members who help keep the tradition going each year.
Among this year’s participants, the top two fundraisers were staff members Mike Durbin and Mary Chapman.
Ellis said the support from staff, students and the community continues to make the event meaningful.
“Thanks to all who are supporting this amazing cause and specifically to a couple of our staff members, Mr. Durbin and Mr. Zmuda for their commitment to raising money every single year for this event,” Ellis said. “Without them, this event would not be able to continue.”
