|
Megan, a local high school student,
purchases her dream gown.
Thank member Angela Plotner for creating a new “dress code” for prom at Prairie High School. The senior recently coordinated Operation Fairy Godmother (OFGM) as a community service project at the school and has successfully motivated her fellow students to donate their old dresses to help those in the community who may not be able to afford a prom dress on their own.
Started by the Vancouver School District Foundation in 2003, OFGM works to make every girl’s prom dreams come true by collecting donations of formal and semi-formal dresses, shoes and accessories and then offering them to local high school teens at a fraction of the price.
As a sponsor of this year’s event, Columbia Credit Union accepted dress donations at each branch location and offered scholarships to offset the cost of tickets. In addition, many Columbia employees chose to volunteer their time sorting dresses and helping teens shop at the dress extravaganza, held at Westfield Vancouver Mall.
While serving as Prairie’s coordinator, Angela planned a dress donation event at her school to increase interest. At the event, students won door prizes and enjoyed dance lessons and performances from professional ballroom dancers. Five student couples also participated in a dance competition.
As a result of her planning and preparation, the event was a hit. “We had 150 girls participate and 116 dresses were donated – the most donated by any high school,” said Angela. “And this is the first time Operation Fairy Godmother was offered at Prairie.”
After working with high schools, businesses and individuals throughout Clark County, OFGM received 2,420 gowns – 400 more than in 2007. Over 1,000 girls came to the dress extravaganza, and more than 600 dresses found new homes.
“We’re so pleased to surpass last year’s totals,” said Jan Redding, Assistant Director of the Vancouver School District Foundation. “That means we’re able to help more kids enjoy their prom than ever before.”
In addition, Angela used her OFGM experience to represent Prairie High School in a recent leadership competition for FCCLA (Family Career and Community Leaders of America) Club and took top honors, earning her a spot in the state competition. If she takes first place, she’ll go on to national competition, but for her, it’s not about the glory.
“I felt that I wanted to do something good for the school that had never been done before and would continue on as a legacy,” explained Angela. “I’m also training other FCCLA officers to take over the program so that they’ll have a lead on what to do next year.”
So, what’s better than coordinating a successful dress collection at your school? “I went through the extravaganza with my friends and found the perfect dress!” shared Angela. “We had a really good time – it was a great way for us to bond and not worry about the cost."
Columbia Credit Union is committed to improving the quality of life for the families living and working in our branch communities. We actively seek to partner with local organizations to further our common values.
» Columbia's Community Involvement
» Operation Fairy Godmother Website |
