Inspired by the legacy of field hockey coach Mikenzie Helphenstine, the community-wide initiative will bring pink hair extensions, school spirit and fundraising events to Ocean City throughout October.
OCEAN CITY, N.J. — A beloved Ocean City tradition is returning this fall as students, athletes, businesses and families come together to honor the legacy of a local field hockey coach while raising money to support teenagers facing cancer.
The Pink Hair Movement, inspired by the late Ocean City School District field hockey coach Mikenzie Helphenstine, will once again bring a wave of pink hair extensions and community fundraising events to Ocean City throughout September and October.
The initiative benefits Cancer Support Community New Jersey (CSCNJ), which provides free emotional, social and educational support programs for individuals and families affected by cancer.
Funds raised through the Pink Hair Movement will support programs for South Jersey teens navigating the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.
What began as a tribute to Helphenstine has grown into an annual community tradition, bringing together students, local athletic teams, business owners and residents in a shared effort to help families facing cancer.
Honoring Coach Mikenzie's Legacy
Helphenstine was a field hockey coach in the Ocean City School District whose influence extended beyond the athletic field.
The Pink Hair Movement continues her legacy by encouraging young people and community members to support others facing difficult circumstances.
"This movement is the perfect reflection of who Coach Mikenzie was—energetic, community-minded, and fiercely supportive," said Eileen Dillon of Cancer Support Community New Jersey.
"Seeing the youth and the community come together to support other teens facing cancer is incredibly powerful."
Throughout the fall, participating students and athletes will wear pink hair extensions and incorporate pink accents into their school and athletic activities.
Local businesses are also being encouraged to participate through community events, fundraising activities and other efforts supporting the movement.
Organizers hope the colorful displays will raise awareness while encouraging residents to learn more about the challenges faced by teenagers and families affected by cancer.
Three Ocean City Events Planned for October
The Pink Hair Movement has announced three upcoming community events, beginning with a pep rally at Ocean City High School.
Tuesday, Oct. 6 — Ocean City High School Pep Rally
The school will host a Pink Hair Movement pep rally beginning at 8:45 a.m., bringing students together to celebrate the initiative and show their support for teenagers facing cancer.
Friday, Oct. 9 — Red and White Football Game
The Pink Hair Movement will be part of Ocean City High School's Red and White football game activities from 4 to 6 p.m.
Students, athletes and community members will have an opportunity to participate in the fundraising effort while showing their school spirit.
Saturday, Oct. 10 — Ocean City Fall Block Party
The movement will participate in Ocean City's annual Fall Block Party from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 12th Street and Asbury Avenue.
The block party, which attracts residents and visitors to the downtown shopping district, will provide an opportunity for additional community members to learn about the initiative and support its mission.
Supporting South Jersey Teens and Families
Cancer Support Community New Jersey provides free programs intended to help people cope with the emotional, social and practical challenges associated with cancer.
The organization offers support for individuals living with cancer, as well as their families and caregivers.
Through the Pink Hair Movement, organizers are focusing on helping South Jersey teenagers who may be dealing with a cancer diagnosis or the effects of cancer on their families.
Community members can support the initiative by attending local events, making donations, wearing pink hair extensions or sharing information about the movement on social media.
The campaign encourages participation from people of all ages, including those who may not have a direct connection to Ocean City schools or athletics.
How to Get Involved
Residents interested in participating in the 2026 Pink Hair Movement or learning more about upcoming events can contact Eileen Dillon at Cancer Support Community New Jersey.
Email: eileen@cscnj.org
Phone: 609-926-2699
The organization can also be found on social media at @OCPINKHAIR and @CSCNEWJERSEY.
As Ocean City prepares for another October filled with pink hair extensions and community events, organizers hope the movement will continue to honor Coach Mikenzie's legacy while providing meaningful support to South Jersey families facing cancer.
