The fourth annual Gowns4Grads&Tuxes2 gala is just weeks away and organizers are asking for help from volunteers.
Gowns4Grads&Tuxes2 provides gently used grad gowns and tuxes for students at a fraction of what they'd cost new, thereby freeing up money that can be used for other priorities.
The program was started by Karen Grudeski. Originally only gowns were provided, but as the years went by, tuxes were added as well. If a student doesn't find a donated outfit that fits, organizers will purchase a new one for them.
Grudeski continues to volunteer many hours to make sure the donations are in good repair and to offer fittings for the grads after they either purchase or are gifted a garment.
She's been helped in the past few years by Jessica Johnson who was at the high school as a practicum student for her fashion studies program four years ago. She loved the program and has helped out ever since.
Over the years, the program has been able to support not only male and female grads in the Chinook's Edge School Division but also in other communities in Alberta and as far away as Whitehorse and Mexico.
The fundraising dinner will take place Oct. 24 in the École Olds High School commons. It begins at 7 p.m. and will feature a fashion show of the gowns and tuxes available. It's organized by the school's Interact Club with help from staff advisor Tane Skotheim.
Money raised from the gala helps cover the cost of storing and cleaning, and subsidizing the purchase of new formal wear.
"Our vision is that this gala will be a kickoff to the grad season and a chance for grads to begin considering their purchasing choices," a release provided by the club says.
"Last year we were able to sell or gift over 20 gowns and assist with either purchasing or renting a suit for seven other grads. We invite you to come and see what we are able to offer and we welcome your help in many ways."
Organizers are looking for help in the following ways:
One way is to donate current formal wear that is in good repair so it can be offered to interested grads. Those donations are being accepted now during working hours at École Olds High School.
Organizers are also looking for people who can donate to the dinner.
"Last year our long-serving local businesses responded to the call and donated food to enable us to serve a potluck dinner to the more than 50 volunteers required to host this event," the release says.
Another way to help is to assist with the fitting of formal wear. Contact Skotheim at 403-586-8277 if you are able to do so or if you have any questions about the program.
