At the beginning of this month, WSU students might have noticed an influx of scruffy beards on campus, which of course means that “No-Shave November” is happening again.

At the beginning of every November, men everywhere free themselves from the shackles of shaving and the tyranny of having to keep their faces clean. The benefits are numerous.

“It increases my chances with the ladies,” senior James Deckard said.

Although the event is often tongue-in-cheek, its intentions are pure.

“It was started to raise awareness of prostate cancer,” said sophomore Montana Danler, who has participated in “No-Shave November” for the past three years.

With the slogan, “Changing the face of men’s health,” the event has set out to put a fun twist on November, while also tackling some serious issues.

“The goal of ‘No-Shave November’ is to grow awareness by embracing our hair, which many cancer patients lose, and letting it grow wild and free. Donate the money you usually spend on shaving and grooming for a month to educate about cancer prevention, save lives, and aid those fighting the battle,” states no-shavenovember.com, the official website of “No-Shave November.”

Deckard said that although he joked about participating in the event, he understands the gravity of what it stands for.

“Sure, I think it can be funny — especially when my friends who just naturally can’t grow facial hair try really hard and end up looking really bad,” Deckard said, “but at the end of the day, it’s a very serious issue that needs to be dealt with, and I’m happy to show support.”

The website lists several ways to get involved.

“Participate by growing a beard, cultivating a mustache, letting those legs get mangly, and skipping that waxing appointment. Give back even more by picking up some sweet merchandise to show your support. If you’re not ready to sport a new shaggy look, consider donating anyway to support the cause.”