Hoover police raise more than $25,000 during No Shave November

Hoover police celebrated a successful No Shave November Monday night.

The department raised $25,100 for The Wings of Hope Pediatric Foundation, joining the Alabaster, Pelham, Montevallo and Helena police departments in support of the organization, which provides families of children who have terminal illnesses with emotional support, meals, house cleaning, lawn care and financial assistance.

All together, the five departments raised $44,546 for Wings of Hope, with Hoover in first place among the departments. Hoover police Capt. Gregg Rector said while not everyone in the department chose to grow a beard, most people donated to the cause.

Representatives from the departments presented Dr. Dan Trotman and Wings of Hope founder Tonya Willingham with the check Monday night.

After the check presentation, The Wings of Hope Foundation voted for “best beard” among the departments. Hoover Officer Issa Deades was selected for best beard, and he won a Yeti cooler. Sgt. David Lipsey was named runner-up and received a gift certificate.

“This is the first year that Hoover PD has participated in this very worthwhile cause,” Officer Brian Hale said. “We look forward, as the other departments do, to making this event grow each year and helping to ease the burden a little for these families. Can't wait to do it again next year.”