Wth the arrival of March, one of Simcoe County’s most spirited community fundraisers is gearing up for another round of trims, transformations—and a whole lot of mullets.
The “March In for a Mullet or Trim” campaign, championed annually by local organizer Amber McAuley, is back with a 2026 goal of raising $5,000 for youth mental health. This year’s beneficiary is Cody’s House Youth Centre, a grassroots organization offering programs, mentorship, intergenerational activities, craft workshops, and bike‑safety education. The charity was founded by Kari Smith, a local mother who turned her own loss—her son’s death by suicide—into a mission to support youth across the region.
McAuley says choosing Cody’s House felt like a natural fit. “They are a small grassroots charity who’s doing amazing stuff supporting youth.”
A Growing Movement With Local Impact
“March Mullet” has become an international campaign, popularized in countries like Australia, where similar efforts have raised over $1 million. McAuley hopes the Simcoe County initiative will continue its steady growth. “We’re aiming to raise $5,000 this year,” she said. “We’re starting small and growing. Australia is a lot bigger than Simcoe County, so let’s put some perspective on that.”
Simcoe County’s youth mental health needs remain significant, she noted. “Statistically, Barrie, Innisfil, and Orillia are three communities that have been flagged as having concerning rising levels of youth getting involved in gang‑related activity,” she said. “So I think these sort of initiatives are crucial.”
Meet Bennett: A Young Fundraising “Mullet Warrior”
This year, one of the most enthusiastic participants might also be one of the youngest: Bennett, who has already begun gathering pledges for the big cut.
Asked why he wanted to get a mullet, Bennett didn’t hesitate: “Because it looks pretty cool… my friends have a mullet, and I think I want the same thing,” he shared. He already has “nine or ten” pledges.
His mother, Sara—a local stylist volunteering at the event—says she couldn’t be more proud. “I don’t think you can ever be too young or too old to be involved in your community and try to help others,” she said.
Sara adds that mullets have evolved far beyond their 1980s stereotype. “They’ve become quite modernized… the modern mullet is quite the look right now,” she noted. Variations like the “shullet” (shag + mullet) have even made their way into local salons.
How to Participate
Participants can choose a full mullet or simply a spring trim, with no minimum donation required. Last year, contributions ranged from $2 to $200.
The main cut day is Monday, March 2, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. A team of volunteer stylists will be on hand, with additional hours available if turnout exceeds expectations.
Those interested can register or donate through the campaign’s Facebook or Instagram pages, or email mulletortrimcampaign@gmail.com. Local studios are also lending support - Charisma Salon is offering a $400 gift basket raffle, with all proceeds benefiting Cody’s House.
As always, McAuley says the event is about more than hair. “Every little bit helps,” she said. “Any age is good, and you get to choose your own mullet adventure.”
Listen below to our interview with Amber, Bennett and Sara. It begins at the 18:55 mark.
