Brave the Shave at St. Brendan’s Inn for childhood cancer research

GREEN BAY – With 22 years under their belt, St. Brendan’s Inn is taking on Brave the Shave again this year.

“[Brave the Shave] is a really fun and unique way to raise money for childhood cancer research,” said Kelsie Basten, a general manager at St. Brendan’s Inn. “The money does come locally as well...it’s nice to know it stays here.”

Basten has been working for St. Brendan’s Inn since 2012, almost 10 years after the origin of Brave the Shave at St. Brendan’s, and the event was already coming second nature to the staff and restaurant.

“Our St. Baldrick’s fundraiser is actually Sunday, March 15. It’s always the Sunday before St. Patrick’s Day!” said Basten.

The biggest challenge the team faced during their time hosting Brave the Shave was during COVID-19, when they had to move away from using an outside tent. The following year, the event still went on. The team at St. Brendan’s adapted to offer a virtual option, with only a limited number of people coming in-person to shave their heads.

“For this event, people register to raise money for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, and in return, they shave their heads. (or donate their hair). The event starts at noon with a knighting ceremony to honor repeat shavees and volunteers. After that, we have about 4 or 5 barber stations set up and shaving starts. For about 4 hours, we shave heads, auction beards and come together as a community to raise money for cancer research.”

Come on down this weekend to join in the festivities to start off the St. Patty’s season right.

Visit “Brave the Shave!” Facebook event page to learn more.