Movember: Grow a mustache, raise awareness

The Movember Foundation is a global charity committed to improving conditions regarding men's health.

This November, the organization is encouraging men everywhere to grow out their mustaches for a cause.

>> Read more trending stories

"The state of men's health is in a crisis, (and) men are dying too young," the group says. "We want to give more life to our fathers and sons."

Men are encouraged to use their facial hair as a conversation starter about issues like prostate cancer, testicular cancer, poor mental health in men and physical inactivity. They're also encouraged to document their mustache growth on social media and spread the word about the movement.

"For 30 days your mustache turns you into a walking, talking billboard for men's health," the group wrote on their website.

Women can also participate in the campaign by fundraising, raising awareness about key health issues and encouraging men in their lives to be physically active.

Since its inception in 2003, The Movember Foundation has helped raise $710 million and fund over 1,200 programs focused on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, poor mental health and physical inactivity.

Popular brands including Nascar, Jeep and Electronic Arts have endorsed the movement, which began in Australia with 30 participants, or Mo Bros. By 2015, more than 5,000,000 Mo Bros and Mo Sistas had participated in the program, and The Movember Foundation was ranked 55th in the top 500 NGOs around the world by NGO Advisor.

To participate, sign up here.

About the Author