What began as a personal habit has grown into a meaningful act of generosity—one that reflects the values we strive to live every day at Prudent Engineering. Inspired by her mother and a long-standing tradition of keeping her hair long, this Prudent team member turned something familiar into an opportunity to make a difference for others.

Over the years, she has completed three to four hair donations, following a thoughtful two-year growth cycle that allows her to meet length requirements while keeping her hair healthy and untreated. Today, her donations support Wigs for Kids, an organization that provides custom hairpieces, fittings, and care products—at no cost—to children experiencing medically related hair loss. While the decision to cut long hair always comes with mixed emotions, the impact is clear. As she puts it, hair grows back—but for a child in need, that donation can restore confidence, comfort, and a sense of normalcy.

What originally inspired you to start growing your hair for donation? Was there a specific moment or person that influenced the decision?

I had always kept my hair long and my mom inspired me to donate, she always wished she could have my hair.

Which organization do you usually donate to, and why is their specific cause important to you?

Started with Pantene Beautiful Lengths but they closed their hair donation program in 2018.

Wigs for Kids is my new favorite. They provide everything free to children up to 18yrs old experiencing medically related hair loss. The hair piece, fitting and care products are all at no cost to the families.

How many times have you done this?

I have made 3 or 4 donations, a brief period I dyed my hair blonde made it not acceptable, had to chop and regrow.

How does it feel when you finally make the cut, knowing where that hair is going?

Honestly, I am never a fan of the short hair at first but I remind myself it grows back quickly.

The Two-Year Cycle: Why two years? Does it take that long to hit a specific length requirement, or is that just your personal rhythm?

On average, hair grows ½ inch every month. In 2-3 years, I have between 14-18 inches to cut off and donate which puts me at length requirement.

Does your daily routine change when your hair is at its longest? Are there "pro-tips" for keeping donated hair healthy (e.g., avoiding certain dyes or heat)?

The rate at which my conditioner is used dramatically changes and that makes me happy!

Tips for people looking to donate I’d say avoid all dyes temporary or permanent, if you use heat try to use a heat protectant.

Do you have a favorite stylist who does the honors, or do you make it a DIY event at home?

This last cut was at Ulta on Christmas Eve (thanks Lorna!) but prior donations were mostly random stylists that could fit me in their schedule.

How does it feel to go from very long hair to a short style overnight? Do people in the office ever fail to recognize you the next day?

A roller coaster of emotions from regret to relief but when the summer heat hits, I’m glad I no longer have hip length hair. I think everyone noticed when I came into the office afterwards.

What would you say to a colleague who is thinking about donating their hair but is nervous about the "big chop"?

Try it at least once, you might love to hate it.

Anything else you would like to share with us?

Its only hair to me but to someone in need it’s a sense of normalcy and confidence. If it costs me no more than a couple stamps, then why not?