The end of the year was pretty hairy at both the Sherburne and Wright Co. Sheriffs’ offices, with both groups once again participating in the annual Beard Challenge to raise money for local causes.

Over in Wright Co., those wishing to participate in the challenge needed to donate or raise at least $150 to be able to grow their beard. Female staff were encouraged to participate as judges in the final judging, for which they had to donate or raise at least $50. 

Numerous others, male and female, donated to the cause as well, and many went above and beyond the minimum donation. 

“We are thrilled this has become such a popular event amongst the Sheriff’s Office staff and love to see the money that these men and women have donated to go to such a great organization that shares our values and commitments to our wonderful community,” the Wright Co. Sheriff’s Office said in a released statement.

One lucky beard-sporting employee was awarded ‘best beard,’ while the most hair challenged was awarded with ‘least impressive beard.’

At the end of the challenge, the Wright Co. Sheriff’s Office handed over a check for $18,330 to RiverWorks, an organization that aligns and mobilizes community resources to deliver powerful solutions which meet the emotional, physical, relational, and spiritual needs of people in the Rockford/Greenfield area.

On the other side of the river, the Sherburne Co. Sheriff’s Office had 80 participants take part in their challenge, raising $6,800 for Rivers of Hope, an organization that helps victims of family violence.

This was the second year both sheriffs’ offices participated in the popular challenge.