Ottumwa Police “No Shave November” Helping Local Boy Battling Brain Cancer

Ottumwa Police Officer Levi Ritz has turned what started as a simple department fundraiser into something that’s made a real difference in people’s lives. His 11th Annual No Shave November is underway, and this year, the Ottumwa Police Association is raising money for 5-year-old Leo Rodriguez, a little boy who’s been fighting an inoperable brain tumor since he was just 9 months old.

The event began back in 2014, when Ritz first organized it to support Bras for a Cause. Back then, it was just a handful of officers taking part. Over time, though, it’s grown into something much bigger. By 2019, the focus turned toward helping children with cancer, and by 2021, local businesses and community members were getting involved.

Ritz says the event has become a bright spot in his year. Working in law enforcement, he sees people on their hardest days, and this fundraiser gives him a chance to see the best in folks — the kind of generosity that restores his faith in people.

“Every year, this event reminds me that there’s still a lot of good out there,” Ritz said. “Even when times are tough, people always find a way to help.”

A Community Rallies Around Leo

Leo has been through more in five years than most adults go through in a lifetime. He’s had multiple brain surgeries, long rounds of chemotherapy, and countless medical trips to Iowa City. Despite all that, his parents say he faces each day with courage and a smile.

His dad, Edgar Rodriguez, works for Norris Asphalt, while his mom, Katelyn, stays home to care for Leo and his younger siblings, Sofia (3) and Dani (5 months). The family has deep roots in Ottumwa, and the community has stepped up in a big way to show they’re not alone in this fight.

First-Ever Whiskey Raffle

This year, Ritz added something new to the mix — a Whiskey Raffle. Several bottles, donated from private collections, have been grouped into three prize baskets. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20, and the winners will be drawn on December 20th, with Leo himself helping to pick the lucky names.

All proceeds will go directly to Leo and his family to help with medical bills, travel costs, and whatever else they may need.

Ritz is quick to point out that this part of the fundraiser is for adults only. Participants must be 21 or older, and IDs will be checked before any prizes are handed out. He’s also warning folks to double-check payment info to avoid scammers pretending to be part of the fundraiser.

Tickets can be purchased through:

Venmo: @Levi-Ritz

CashApp: $Ritzl186
(Include “Leo” and the number of tickets you want in the note.)

You can view the raffle items by clicking on this LINK.

A Tradition That Keeps Growing

Over the past decade, the No Shave November event has turned into something special. What started as a few police officers skipping their razors has become a community-wide effort that’s reached people far beyond Ottumwa — with donations even coming in from Texas and Alaska.

“It’s humbling,” Ritz said. “This started as just a small idea, but every year it grows, and every year I’m blown away by how many people care.”

The final presentation to Leo and his family will take place on Saturday, December 20th. Details will be shared on the Ottumwa Police Department’s social media pages.