There’s no time like the month of November to showcase your moustache and focus on giving back by becoming part of a good cause. Companies all over Canada are having “Mo” fun this November by participating in Movember to raise awareness and money for men’s health. To celebrate Movember, or No-Shave November, with your employees, the goal is simple: begin the month with a clean-shaven face and, for the rest of the month, grow and groom a moustache (a.k.a a “mo”). This simple action helps improve healthcare outcomes for men living with prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health through awareness, education and research.

Movember is a grassroots organization and movement that has achieved huge international growth as a charity since 2003, spanning over 21 countries and raising millions for men’s health. The first Movember took place in Melbourne, Australia in 2003 and since then its popularity has spread. Companies around the world – from startups to large corporations – have begun to encourage their employees to participate in the cause by banding together, growing facial hair and raising money in the name of men’s health. With this in mind, we’ve decided to highlight the benefits of participating and provide some tips on how to become involved in campaigns like Movember without sacrificing productivity in the office.

Charity campaigns can improve your workplace

Charity campaigns like Movember are a fun and easy way for your workplace to enhance morale and unite employees. Some business owners may be a little weary to participate in these campaigns, but these charitable events can send an important health message to all staff and help improve your employees’ mental health through team bonding and by creating a sense of accomplishment.

Did you know that 93% of employees who volunteer with their company report that they are happy with their job? Plus, 54% of those who are proud of their company’s contributions to society are highly engaged at work. Feeling part of a team that makes a difference helps create a sense of achievement in the office, and it also enhances the company’s reputation as it exemplifies corporate values in action and demonstrates a real community impact. Not only do campaigns like Movember encourage employee engagement, but it’s a good way to attract and retain staff by keeping the workplace fun while also making an impact.

Staying productive while raising awareness

As viral charity campaigns are becoming increasingly more popular – from the ASL Bucket Challenge to Movember – it’s important to consider which campaigns you want to participate in and how you plan to do it.

1. Choose the campaigns that work for your company

   Look for charity campaigns that fit your workplace culture and environment. For example, by choosing a campaign like Movember, employees can simply grow a moustache and post photos to social media – this is a sustainable and realistic campaign for fast-paced workplaces and companies whose top value is helping those in the health community.

2. Scheduling is key

   Schedule a time during the week where people can meet up, talk about and collaborate on their fundraising efforts.

3. Make it a company initiative

   In addition to growing facial hair, your company can raise awareness by offering a Movember promotion on their products or services.

Participating in charity campaigns in the workplace is a great way to boost morale and get your employees involved in a good cause. We want to see your Movemeber pictures! Tweet us your photos at: https://twitter.com/benecaid