DRESS DONATIONS NEEDED 2/19-3/4A healthy dose of fairy godmother magic is about to transform an empty retail space into a boutique full of prom dress dreams-come-true for area teens.
SilverSparkle, an initiative of Silverbackks, is teaming up with the merchants of Westboro Mart to collect new and gently used prom dresses and accessories. These will be lovingly merchandised and offered at no cost to young women who might not otherwise be able to attend their school formals because of the expense of a new gown.
Donations will be accepted at any of the stores in Westboro Mart at Huntoon & Oakley from February 19-March 4. As a thank you, merchants are offering a 10% discount card that can be used in any of their stores through May 31.
Volunteers from Silverbackks will be stocking the pop-up store at 3121 SW Huntoon, transforming it into a one-of-a-kind boutique.
“A prom closet isn't just about the dresses,” said Jesyca Hope, SilverSparkle volunteer chair. “It is a chance to remind young women to love themselves. And that there are no obstacles they can't overcome in choosing the best possible path for themselves: including prom. I hope we'll be able to provide them with the dress, and the skills, to know—truly know—that they're beautiful inside and out. This experience will empower these young ladies and impact them far beyond prom.”
Patrick Gideon, the owner of the Westboro Mart, has donated the space for the temporary boutique. “Prom is a rite of passage,” said Gideon. “Today, more than ever, we need to support and encourage our young people—our future is in their hands. I’m glad to be part of this special gift to our community.”
SilverSparkle was founded in 2013 and is a project of Silverbackks, a 501(c)3 organization and each year has grown in its reach and momentum.
More information about both organizations is available on Facebook:
Westboro Mart: facebook.com/WestboroMart
Silverbackks: facebook.com/SilverbackKS
