Ocean City Goes Pink To Raise Funds For Cancer Support Community

OCEAN CITY, NJ — Ocean City's Pink Hair Movement is returning this fall, bringing students, families, athletes and local businesses together to raise money for Cancer Support Community New Jersey.

The campaign will run throughout September and October, with pink hair extensions and pink accents expected to appear in schools, on athletic fields and at local businesses across town.

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According to the announcement, the movement began as a tribute to Mikenzie Helphenstine, a longtime Ocean City School District field hockey coach whose legacy continues to inspire the community. The fundraiser has since grown into an annual tradition in Ocean City.

Money raised through the campaign will go to Cancer Support Community New Jersey, or CSCNJ. According to the announcement, those funds support free emotional, social and educational programs for South Jersey teens facing a cancer diagnosis.

Ocean City residents will see the campaign in several parts of the community this season. Schools and athletic teams will add pink touches to their usual gear, while businesses are planning community events and celebrations aimed at widening participation. The announcement also says people can take part by attending events, donating, wearing pink hair or sharing the movement on social media.

"This movement is the perfect reflection of who Coach Mikenzie was—energetic, community-minded, and fiercely supportive," said Eileen Dillon of CSCNJ. "Seeing the youth and the community come together to support other teens facing cancer is incredibly powerful."

Three public events are listed as part of the 2026 Pink Hair Movement schedule. A pep rally is planned for 8:45 a.m. Oct. 6 at Ocean City High School. A Red and White football game is scheduled from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 9 at Ocean City High School. The movement will also be part of the Ocean City Block Party from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 10 at 12th Street and Asbury Avenue.

For more information about the 2026 Pink Hair Movement or how to participate, the announcement directs people to contact Eileen Dillon at eileen@cscnj.org or 609-926-2699. Social media information listed for the effort includes @OCPINKHAIR and @CSCNEWJERSEY.