You know that you have made the right choice to commit your time, money and energy, when the mom of one of our prom girls who attended our “free” prom event hugs (more than once) every last volunteer with tears in her eyes and the kindest words in her voice. This year marked our fourth and biggest prom event, dedicated to giving high school senior girls the opportunity to not only wear a beautiful gown to their senior prom without cost, but to experience the excitement that goes along with it.Last year, Robyn Maloney, from Bay Shore High School reached out to Bridal Suite of Bay Shore, identifying the same goal, and our joined forces for the common goal have proved extremely positive. The event usually lasts about 2 hours, where we open the store solely for the purpose of this cause, offering a free prom gown combined with the salon experience to each girl in need (and her family). During this event, the entire prom section is groomed for dresses that we are able to offer. There are hundreds of dresses in all sizes and colors and our 9 dressing rooms are open to all of the girls, along with a prom consultant for direction or advice, or simply a reassuring comment. This year, girls needed to share dressing rooms because of the abundant turnout, and a few even changed in the bathroom. Every girl that walked in for a dress, walked out with one, so our mission was 100% successful.The evening closed with an overwhelming feeling of gratefulness from both ends… the receiver, obviously, for a dress to wear on prom night. The giver, for the opportunity just to be able to provide a service and help someone in some way. There is no greater gift than this.In the days to follow, a call came from a volunteer at Wyandanch High School, named Kim. “Do you have any dresses to offer?… we are hosting a prom event for girls that cannot afford…”. Once again we heard the calling and the answer just seemed obvious. Why not take it one step beyond so that those fallen on financial hardship can feel just as worthy as the next girl. It seems that so many of our neighbors are in need. So we will gather and sort for Wyandanch. Kim will pick up and we will all sleep more soundly knowing that we may have made a difference.
