Prom season is in full swing, and The Canby Center got into the spirit in style last week by hosting its first-ever prom dress drive and giveaway event.
The soft launch of this event was a success, staff told the Current, with more than 75 dresses donated by community members that were then shared with Canby High School students preparing for Prom Night on Saturday.
Students and their families enjoyed an afternoon of treats and fun as they shopped for the perfect dress, completing their look with shoes and accessories.
The goal of the dress giveaway program was to help make prom accessible to all students, regardless of their financial situation, staff said. While prom is often a highlight of students’ high school careers, it can be a costly affair, with expenses such as dress rentals, shoes, and accessories adding up quickly.
This giveaway event helped students who might not otherwise have been able to attend the prom find a dress that they loved and looked great in. In addition to providing access to affordable prom attire, the event also created a positive and uplifting atmosphere for them to enjoy.
Volunteers helped girls and their moms pick out the perfect dress, creating a personalized shopping experience that made everyone feel special.
The event was a hit, not only with students — but also with their families.
“It’s so wonderful what you’re doing,” one mom who attended the event told TCC staff. “We stopped by to see what your selection was like; I’m going to go pick up my other daughter to bring her; this will make her day!”
For some students, this event meant the opportunity to attend prom for the first time, even in their senior year.
“I didn’t think I’d be able to find a dress that fit me and feels like my style,” a student who volunteered as a shopping assistant said. “But I did! I feel amazing when I’m wearing this dress. Thank you so much!”
The Canby Center team was thrilled with the results and the impact it made on girls and families who attended and was also pleased with the generosity of community members who supported the event.
Staff said The Canby Center looks forward to continuing to support the community in similar ways in the future. Learn more about The Canby Center and opportunities to support its work, including its ongoing capital campaign and expansion project, at thecanbycenter.org.