Fourth Annual Mothers Trust Foundation Pop Up Prom Shoppe for Education returns

Spring has sprung and that means it’s time for high school students to think about prom. Mothers Trust Foundation is pleased to announce the fourth annual MTF Pop Up Prom Shoppe For Education, “It’s More Than A Dress,” held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, April 13 and 14 at the University Center of Lake County, 1200 University Center Drive, Grayslake.

This event is open to all Lake County high school students.

In 2018, a Lake County high school social worker contacted MTF seeking spare prom dresses for low-income students. With over 100 dresses collected from family and friends, MTF hosted the first Pop Up Prom Shoppe in that school’s office. Moved by students’ emotional reactions, MTF formally launched the Pop Up Prom Shoppe for Education in 2019. Instead of being need-based, it was open to all Lake County high school students, removing the stigma of needing a free dress. Now, it’s for anyone who wants one.

This prom dress giveaway stands out by emphasizing education.

Partnering with Zengeler Cleaners since 2019, it collects formal dress donations to support Lake County high school students. Collaborating with College of Lake County and University Center of Lake County, the event showcases local educational opportunities. It includes guest speakers, informative flyers, and introduces a FAFSA workshop. A VIP Day, held before the public opening, invites at-risk students from five Lake County high schools for official college visits, workshops and a catered lunch.

All attendees also get to shop in the Pop Up Prom Shoppe with personal shoppers. More than 500 dedicated volunteers contribute to make this cherished event a reality every spring. These volunteers assist with various tasks, including sorting and sizing dresses, setting up fitting rooms, serving as personal shoppers and accessory coordinators, and assisting with event breakdown.

For over 25 years, Mothers Trust Foundation has been providing immediate assistance during times of crisis to low-income children and their families living in Lake County. The foundation’s goal is to provide hope, build confidence and make a positive impact on a young person’s life. For more information, visit motherstrustfoundation.org, or contact Executive Director Kathleen Boehm, at (847) 482-9189 or boehm@motherstrustfoundation.org.