One Bold Haircut and Thousands Raised: Cure-a-Thon Hits New High
Many people got haircuts at this year’s Cure-a-Thon, but one haircut was particularly memorable.
During a special assembly the day after the Louis Riel Arts and Technology Centre’s 14th annual fundraiser, principal Darren Baker sat in front of a packed gym as students watched his head and beard get shaved live on camera. The first swipe of the razor carved a reverse mohawk down the middle of his head — leaving what looked a little like a runway for a toy airplane. Then, in perfect comedic timing, a fire drill sent him outside, airstrip and all.
It was a fittingly fun finale to a wildly successful event. This year’s Cure-a-Thon raised a record-breaking $8,001.25 for CancerCare Manitoba, soaring past last year’s total of $5,500. The head-and-beard shave challenge alone brought in $1,300, easily surpassing the $1,000 goal, the mark that would earn Darren his new look — all live-streamed by the school’s media broadcasting team.
“It’s been wonderful. Cancer touches a lot of lives, and (the students) are learning to give back to the community,” said hair and esthetics instructor Vanhphen.
Held May 1, the Cure-a-Thon transformed the school into a buzzing hub of activity. Students and staff offered salon services, hosted a bake sale and pizza lunch, ran a car wash, organized games in the gym, and held a silent auction filled with prizes — many donated by students and their families.
“Students are so eager and so excited about this event,” said hair and esthetics instructor Miriam. “A lot of our students contribute in other ways too — by donating prizes or bringing their family members in.”
Beyond the fundraising, the event gave students a chance to develop real-world skills. As Miriam noted, it was also a great opportunity for them to learn time management and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Darren couldn’t have been prouder.
“I am thrilled with how it went. It was a great success. I love the sense of community it builds which in turn produces a great amount of funds for a worthy cause. It is a lot of work, but the energy and collaboration from the whole school makes it possible. I really couldn't be happier,” he said.
Fourteen years strong, the Cure-a-Thon continues to be a shining example of what happens when a school community comes together — with heart, hustle and a little bit of hair.
