Employer's reaction to a charity fundraising event?

Question

So, I'm a guy thinking of shaving his head to raise money for cancer research. I think this is a good cause, but have a few questions about it that I'm hoping someone can answer.

I am a bit apprehensive about how an employer would react to this. Would an employer have an objection to an employee doing this? I would imagine that since it is for charity an employer would not have a problem. Plus, it could be good PR for them. Has anyone experience any problems with their employer on this issue? If so, how did you deal with that issue? What was the end result? For those of you who did this, how were the reactions in the office afterwards?

Thanks for your help.

Answer 1

I would turn it into a community event. Advertise your "stunt" and see if you can get others to volunteer to join with you. It depends on how classy the place you work at is. Just explain to your employer that you dont want it to come off as a gag, that you are deeply committed to raising funds. Ask your boss or whomever, what they would recommend. If they feel involved in planning as well, they may be more open and accepting of you idea. And they may have some good ideas as well.

Answer 2

A good company would have no problem with it.

The best thing about what you are doing is that, when you shave your head, everyone at work will wonder why you did it.
You can then explain the charity event that you participated in and why it was important to you.
It create awareness for your co-workers. Who knows? Maybe someone else will want to help your cause next year, which is partially the point.

I shave my head twice a week and work a white collar job.
You will get a lot of questions at first, but only because of the drastic change in appearance. Other than that, don't worry about it.

Answer 3

If you were a woman, I'd say no.

Since you are a man, go for it, but casually mention this to your supervisor. The problem isn't the bald part (so many men are bald, non-issue)--it's what you are going to look like while your hair grows back in. You will have a stretch of time were you will look funny. If you work with the public face to face (eg, sales), you may have an issue. When guys at my office want to grow beards, they start them while they are on 2 week vacations.

Answer 4

Just because this is for a good cause doesn't necessarily make it a good career move. I wouldn't assume that all my superiors heartily endorse this as a worthwhile compromise of their work place. Impulsiveness of any sort is seldom considered a laudable management trait.

Even if you don't plan on advancing within this company, you may want to have your supervisor make the first contribution to your money lei before over committing to it.

Answer 5

I know that my current employer would wholeheartedly welcome this. Of course I am fortunate to work for a business who puts employees and community first. Ask HR about your intentions and you might even see a company match to what you have raised. Good work and good luck!

Answer 6

that is a great idea plus with that much attention on you you might get a promotion next time it comes around

Answer 7

I'd mention it to your boss before you do it, and ask if there is any problem. I would be very surprised if they object, but you never know.

Answer 8

It's your head. So long as you're not a hair model, go ahead and denude your dome.

Answer 9

I would hope they wouldn't have a problem with you.What a kind thing to do.I would question their integrity if they have a problem with you.