Donate your used prom dress

Submitted by Batavia MainStreet

Special Occasions is teaming up with Cinderella’s Closet to present an opportunity to help the less fortunate.

Bring in any gently used, clean and current prom dress to Special Occasions on the Avenue and all dresses are donated to Cinderella’s Closet to be given to local high school girls facing financial difficulties.

This prom dress drive is part of a larger effort by the Elgin Junior Service Board and the YWCA. They host a prom season event where thousands of underprivileged girls choose their dress, jewelry and purse at no cost to them.

For information on Cinderella’s Closet, visit www.elginjsb.org or email CinderellasCloset@elginjsb.org.

Additionally, Prom-O-Rama is planning its third annual prom fashion show and fundraiser benefiting Suicide Prevention Services.

“I am so excited that we have so many students who want to participate in Prom-O-Rama,” said Mary Popiel, committee chair and owner of Special Occasions on the Avenue. “I’m thrilled that we are able to put this event on again while bringing awareness about Suicide Prevention Services to this particular demographic.

Prom-O-Rama 2012 will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 12, at Shannon Hall, Batavia Eastside Community Center. The event is presented by Special Occasions on the Avenue and designed with Batavia Academy of Dance, Invitations Etc., and Urban Style, and, in partnership with Batavia MainStreet.

Prom-O-Rama 2012 includes live music, style show and creative dance. The doors open at 2 p.m. and a reserved ticket is required. Tickets are $3 for general admission and free for students with an ID. Raffle tickets will also be available to purchase for items donated by participating businesses. Admission and raffle ticket sales will benefit Suicide Prevention Services.

With a volunteer-driven operation located right in Batavia, Suicide Prevention Services aims to reduce risks and completions by means of public education, private depression screenings, and early interventions. Proceeds from Prom-O-Rama, will go toward keeping this program going strong.

For more information about Prom-O-Rama, visit the Batavia MainStreet website, www.downtownbatavia.com.