The Beardies Contest for Make-A-Wish Vermont:
The last and final event was 2024 making an 8 year streak.
The Beardies Contest is a unique and spirited annual fundraiser organized by Make-A-Wish Vermont, aimed at granting wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions. This lighthearted yet impactful event invites participants, known as "Beardos," to showcase their facial hair in a competitive yet charitable setting. Participants register online where they raise funds via a creative beard display, leveraging social media and personal networks to garner votes, each equating to a dollar donation.
The contest has various beard categories like Best Beard in Vermont, Best Dressed Beard, Best Freestyle Beard, and Best Backwoods Beard, culminating in a live event where the top fundraisers compete for these titles. Over the years, the Beardies has raised substantial sums, with one event noted for raising over $100,000, significantly contributing to the wishes granted by Make-A-Wish Vermont. The event combines fun, community spirit, and philanthropy, featuring activities like axe-throwing, wish-themed merchandise, and the crowning of the best beard with prizes like luxury staycations.
Team Pappie is one of the standout groups within the Beardies Contest, led by Michel Fortin, affectionately known as "Pappie." Pappie, a grandfather to a Make-A-Wish child, brings a personal touch to the competition, understanding firsthand the transformative power of a wish. Team Pappie is known for its dedication to fundraising, with Pappie himself having won accolades like Best Backwoods Beard and 2020 Best Beard in Vermont in past contests.
The team's website, teampappie.com, serves as a platform for updates, engagement, and rallying support for the Beardies Contest. They emphasize the dual nature of the event - the humor and joy of the beard competition juxtaposed with the profound impact of funding wishes. Team Pappie embodies the spirit of community, fun, and generosity, using their platform to raise awareness and funds, making a tangible difference in the lives of Vermont's sick children by turning facial hair into a force for good.
Together, the Beardies Contest and Team Pappie highlight how a fun, community-driven event can lead to serious, life-changing support for children in need, blending Vermont's love for individuality with a deep commitment to charity.
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Although the Beardies Contest came to a "Hairy End" last year, marking an 8 year streak raising funds for Make-A-Wish Vermont. Our burning desire to continue the tradition, Team Pappie is announcing, "Whiskers For Wishes" here in 2025 with a goal of $10,000!