Employee Spotlight: Joe Schneid's Fundraising Efforts

Our Construction + Real Estate Partner, Joe Schneid, spent November raising money for the Movember Foundation by "growing a mo," and brought a smile to many in the process. 

The Movember Foundation uses funding to impact men’s health both locally and globally, primarily focused on mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. We talked to Joe to learn more about his involvement with this cause:

Have you participated in Movember before?

Joe Schneid: This is my third year participating, the first year being in 2012. I'm proud to report I surpassed my fundraising goal of $500 this year, with $2600 in donations. Throughout the three years, I've raised more than $6000 for the Movember Foundation.

Why is this cause particularly important to you?  

JS: I lost both my dad and paternal grandpa prematurely, due to cancer. As a result, I've always been aware of the need for regular check-ups and paying close attention to my health. As I reached my late forties, I realized awareness is important, but funding health research is essential as well. 

I have business partners and friends who deal with testicular and prostate cancers. Guys who "seem perfectly healthy" can be vulnerable. Cancer is a nasty disease for men and women alike. My wife Lucy is a breast cancer survivor. The treatment and living with the aftermath is very difficult not only for the survivor, but also for their loved ones. 

How have you had success raising money?

JS: The handlebar with the gray tips is a conversation starter, of course! Whenever it's commented on, or with family and friends, I'll say, "I'm raising money this month to fund research into cancer treatments and cures. Will you donate what you can? Go to my Movember Foundation page!" The mustache is a great jumping off point.

Serious question: do you prefer mustache Joe or mustache-free Joe? 

JS: The preference ebbs and flows. My mom is not a fan, and my wife of 36 years tolerates a goatee once in a while. For me, I'm partial to being mustache-free, as I am the other 11 months of the year. Regardless, I'm happy to be able to do a small part and share my passion to help find treatments and cures for this nasty blight.   

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