The Vero Beach Community Center became a makeshift “field of dreams” for some lucky high school students who came out Saturday morning for Operation Prom, which provides formal attire to teens who might not otherwise be able to afford it. The Community Center was a beehive of activity as members of the Junior League of Indian River served as personal shoppers to help the students find just the right outfit from a selection of more than 300 gowns and tuxedos.
After hearing about a similar program at a Junior League conference, Neda Heeter began working on one here two years ago. Partnering with the VNA Hidden Treasures thrift store, which served as a collection center through the year, members of the community donated new and gently used formal wear to be given to the students free of charge. Clothes were delivered to the Community Center by White Gloves Moving and Storage, filling the room with stunning gowns for the girls and stylish tuxes and suits for the boys.
With the cost of attending a prom being out of range for many parents, Heeter said this enabled teens to be a part of their school community without having to wear an outfit handed down from another family member or chosen just because it fit.
There are no financial requirements or applications, and confidentiality is maintained. Students were made aware of the program by the Indian River County School District and could just show up and choose an outfit. In addition to donated formals, Island Formals provided tuxedoes. And, so that they could enjoy the full prom experience, goodie bags had products from Miriam Soto Mary Kay, and gift certificates for hair styling by Hair Salon of Vero Beach and mani/pedis by Foxy Nails.
“We have people who have gone out and bought dresses or collected in their neighborhoods just to donate,” said Heeter. “One girl came from a displaced family situation and came to help a friend find a gown for prom. Later she came back and donated a dress she had in her closet. It was the only thing she still had from her old home and she wanted to give it to make some other girl happy.”
“Being able to see the kids and their caretakers so happy and excited when they find a dress or suit and maybe taking off some of their financial burden is so rewarding,” said Junior League president-elect Kelly Peters, as she and other volunteers waited for approximately 200 “clients” to arrive.
“This project is more than about clothes,” said Lillian Torres-Martinez, School District director of student services. “If the kids see that the community supports them and that they really care about their well-being, I believe that creates strong values. And hopefully, once they become an adult, they will turn around and do the same for others.”