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Today is November 1st…or should I say Movember 1st? Yes, that’s right folks! Movember is officially upon us! Movember is an annual charity event in which men grow mustaches to raise awareness and money for men’s health, most notably prostate cancer. A few weeks back I wrote a blog post about how Social Media can be used for Social Good. Movember is another great example of this.

It’s simple – on Movember 1st, shave your face and then grow a mustache for the entire month. The mustache acts as an icon for men’s health – similar to the pink ribbon for breast cancer – and is often a conversation starter. This conversation raises awareness for the cause and in turn drives donations.

Movember, which originated in Melbourne, Australia was first started as somewhat of a joke between friends who wanted to bring the mustache back into fashion, as well as raise money for prostate cancer. While they made no money in their first year, the founders, inspired by the efforts of women world wide who supported breast cancer, continued the campaign. And it paid off. Donations through Movember have increased every year since, and the campaign has expanded to over 10 countries. Last year Movember raised over $47 million for prostate cancer. In fact, in 2009 over 35,000 Canadians participated in Movember, raising almost $8 million for the Prostate Cancer Canada, second only to Australia.

Movember Canada has done an excellent job and using Social Media to raise awareness about their cause and reach their audience. Their Facebook Page is home to over 4300 Canadian fans, and it features everything from links to Movember videos, to news stories, photos and even a tab that allows you to donate. They also keep fans up to date and informed using their Twitter account. Not only that, but their YouTube channel, MovemberTV, has dozens of great videos promoting the cause, some of which featuring celebrities such as actress Malin Akerman and former Calgary Flame great, and king of the mustache, Lanny McDonald.

Movember is another great charity that has used Social Media for Social Good. Starting today, I will be growing my mustache to show my support and to raise awareness for prostate cancer. Will you grow your Mo?

WebFuel is challenging each and every one of you to grow a mustache to support Movember. For every Fan that posts a photo of their mustache on our Facebook Page during Movember, WebFuel will donate $10 to the Prostate Cancer Canada! Show us your Mo!