Project Prom Dress

2023 NACo Achievement Award Winner

Montgomery County, Md., MD

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About the Program

Category: Parks and Recreation (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

Montgomery County Recreation’s first Project Prom Dress provided hundreds of high school students an opportunity to get a free prom dress. The Project was held in an area of the County, which was historically underserved, and could benefit from programs that provide financial assistance. The event was held in a community recreation center in proximity of a high school where 66 percent of the students qualify for free and reduced meals. The program aimed to eliminate the financial hardship many girls faced when looking to purchase a new prom dress. Additionally, the annual event helps ensure that finances are not barriers to hold back girls from attending one of high school’s most memorable events. The event featured a dress-selection area with more than 2,500 dresses, make-up and accessories shops and fitting rooms. All items and services were free.