i did that a few years ago when i decided to ditch the long hair. Locks of Love (the most well known program for that in US) is awesome idea imo. anybody thinking of donating their hair just ask the people where you are getting your hair cut, most places know the program and are happy to participate. i didnt shave mine, it was long enough that they just took the pony tail and then cleaned up what i had left into a normal haircut