For Immediate Release

Feb. 11 2018 ​

 

AUSTIN, Texas – Students Making Impacts Through Love and Empathy (S.M.I.L.E.), a nonprofit organization promoting volunteer work with children in the Austin area, is hosting its seventh annual Brave the Shave event in partnership with the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. It is the top private funder of pediatric research grants around the world. S.M.I.L.E. has donated over $100,000 from past events . The event will be held at The University of Texas Tower on April 7 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

 

Every year, people around the world pledge to shave their heads in solidarity for children battling cancer. Each participant raises money prior to the event by asking friends and family to donate. The event at The University of Texas is one of many that occur each year.

 

“Brave the Shave is a commitment that empowers the children who are most affected by cancer and I believe that shaving my head would not only raise awareness but also help kids realize that there is hope in both finding a cure and being accepted in society,” said Nicole Hoang, a member of S.M.I.L.E. “I’ve met really strong and amazing kids who are affected by cancer and Brave the Shave is a great way to send our love and support to them.”

 

All funds raised will go toward the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a charity that supports childhood cancer research. Adults are encouraged to contribute, whether it is through being a "shavee", volunteering, donating or simply cheering on participants.

 

“Brave the Shave is more than just the donations, it’s about making kids who have lost their hair feel normal again,” said David Aguirre, president of S.M.I.L.E. “Bald is beautiful.”

 

S.M.I.L.E. is an organization dedicated to empowering children. The group travels to schools and hospitals where children are in need. The mission is to allow kids to enjoy their childhood even when their individual circumstances may make them grow up faster than they should.  For more information, visit: http://utsmile.wixsite.com/smile-website

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