Each year, Future Professionals and staff from the nationwide network of Paul Mitchell Schools spend the months of February through April raising money for various charities with their annual “FUNraising” campaign.

“Giving back is a cornerstone of our philosophy,” says Dean and Cofounder Winn Claybaugh. “Of course we teach the skills needed for a successful career, but we also teach the skills needed for a successful life, and those include being nice and giving back.”

The annual campaign culminates in the FUNraising Gala dinner, hosted by Winn Claybaugh, Paul Mitchell Cofounder and CEO John Paul DeJoria, Paul Mitchell Co-owner Angus Mitchell, and representatives from the supported charities. Past celebrity guests have included entertainers Donny and Marie Osmond, actor Betty White, TV and radio personality Leeza Gibbons, country music superstar Dolly Parton, comedian Fran Drescher, hairdresser Vidal Sassoon, CNN’s Larry King, comedian/motivational speaker Kathy Buckley, actress Kristin Bauer, singer/songwriter Natasha Bedingfield, and more.

Thanks to event sponsors who generously underwrite the dinner, every dollar from ticket sales goes directly to the charities. In addition, the top FUNraising schools receive a day of education in their schools with renowned beauty industry artists and educators who donate their time.

To date, the campaign has raised over $8.5 million to benefit a number of charitable organizations. Rather than seeking huge corporate donations, Future Professionals raise most of the money through grassroots events like cut-a-thons, hair shows, car washes, bake sales, and “Casual for a Cause” days, with donations averaging $5 to $10.