Neil and William 'beard in and beard out' for the Anxiety Recovery Centre

Neil and Will are growing their beards. Well, Will has been growing his since October last year and Neil just forgot to shave in Europe so he's coming along for the ride.

What for? Given the extensive history of anxiety in Will's life, we are raising money for an excellent grassroots charity called Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria (ARC Vic).

The Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria (ARCVic) is a state-wide, specialist mental health organisation, providing support, recovery and educational services to people and families living with anxiety disorders.

While Neil will keep his trimmed and taut, Will is letting it all grow for a year. The point of the growth is a literal and metaphoric display of how anxiety, similarly to beards, can fester when people fight mental health issues on their own, without opening up to family and friends and subsequently seeking professional help. ARC Vic offers free workshops, support groups, recovery programs and seminars to help people living with anxiety or who have loved ones with anxiety to recover and rebuild from the many debilitating forms of anxiety that cause significant harm to the livelihoods of those affected.

This is something I (William) am truly passionate about so any little amount you have to give between now and October would be so greatly appreciated. We've both learnt how good mental health is something that is not to be taken for granted and we both know how vital it is to have programs and excellent people specialising in recovery from something that is totally individualised from person to person.

Our beards will be shaved off after Will runs the Melbourne Half-Marathon. In the end, it is about turning our attention to a hugely important issue in Australian (and broader society!) so if you aren't in a position to give any money we still greatly appreciate you even turning your attention to it in any capacity. Will is always available for a chat and check out ARCVic's website (https://www.arcvic.org.au/)

Thanks to all those who already donated the $240 to Will's solo cause!!! To Nick, Lil, Tim, Harry, Harriet, Jimmy, Laura and John - thank you so much. It goes straight to ARCVic's bank balance.