It’s important for graduating students to have a safe space to celebrate all they’ve accomplished the past four years, which is why a local high school needs your help.
The annual fashion show fundraiser and silent auction at Stelly’s Secondary is Wednesday, May 17 in the Stelly’s Theatre. All the proceeds from the event support the Stelly’s dry grad event – an after-graduation party with music, food and games and, most importantly, that’s free of illegal substances.
“It’s so parents know where their kids are and everybody’s safe and having a good time,” says parent organizer Joan Saunders.
The dry grad event is hosted at the Student Union Building on the University of Victoria campus from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. following the formal graduation ceremony. On the evening of, Stelly’s students are provided with bus transportation to and from the event. Fees associated with the event are around $30,000, including building rental, transportation, food and entertainment. The fundraiser is to keep the ticket costs down for the students, at $10.
“It’s also to have another event where they can all be together with their friends – it’s sort of their last big hurrah. And it’s more casual than the formal event, students will often change into something else,” Saunders says.
To fundraise, this year the students are taking a trip through Hollywood music with the theme, “Stelly’s Goes to the Movies.” Around 45 Grade 12 students will strut the catwalk to songs from Footloose and the classic Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, along with other songs ranging from the 1930s to present day. The modern fashion the students will be sporting is inspired by movies throughout the ages, including Rocky and James Bond.
All of the fashion show clothing is provided by sponsors, including Le Chateau, Moores and Hudson’s Bay, just to name a few. There’s also over 100 different items provided by local businesses for the silent auction.
Tickets are $15 and are on sale at the school during lunch break and will also be available at the door. The fashion show starts at 7:30 p.m. and is open to the public. Auction items are up for bid at 7 p.m.