Henrico CASA has teamed up with Henrico Firefighters for the Mustaches for Kids (M4K) fundraiser, an annual mustache-growing event in November that benefits kids throughout Central Virginia. All county employees are invited to participate in the fun by joining Henrico CASA and Henrico Firefighters as members of team Henrico Heroes.
And here’s a furry fact: Mustaches are optional.
“It’s true,” said Jeannine Panzera, Executive Director of Henrico CASA. “Just like firefighters and police officers and administrators and educators all have different superpowers — we can all grow different mustaches for a good cause.”
So let’s get creative, Henrico. Grow your best real or faux mustache. It can be distinguished or droopy, sculpted or shaggy, bushy or pencil-thin. What matters the most is that you enjoy yourself and have a good time supporting a good cause.
“Our mission at Henrico CASA is to advocate for vulnerable children and ensure that they can thrive in their homes,” Panzera said. “We’re thankful to the firefighters who are supporting M4K and Henrico CASA and want everyone who gets involved to have a great time.”
Bill Boger, a longtime Henrico Firefighter and President of the International Association of Firefighters Local 1568, agreed. “The Mustaches for Kids campaign resonates with firefighters,” he said, citing the IAFF’s 2022 participation. “We had 26 members combine to raise $13,000 for M4K last year. This year, we hope to exceed that, and we invite all county emergency responders, county employees and their friends and families to join us on team ‘Henrico Heroes’.”
Panzera said that Henrico CASA and Henrico firefighters had separate teams during the 2022 campaign and decided this year to combine their efforts with a goal to grow a team of 75 Henrico Heroes and raise $50,000.
Henrico Fire Chief Jackson Baynard applauded the partnership. “Service is at the heart of everything we do in the fire service,” he said. “And the connection between mustaches and firefighters is a fun aspect of our culture. A fundraiser that combines those two things and that also supports great organizations like Henrico CASA is a natural fit.”
Are you up for the challenge? We know you are! After all — With a Great ‘Stache Comes Great Responsibility! So, grow your stache and raise some cash with us. REGISTER as a Henrico Heroes team member and sport a mustache this November or DONATE in honor of your favorite Henrico Hero.
