Submitted by the Woman’s Club of Evanston
Dreams Delivered, a project of The Woman’s Club of Evanston and The Ivy Pearl Foundation Inc. in conjunction with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Delta Chi Omega Chapter, is now accepting new and gently used evening dresses, shoes, jewelry, and accessories for students attending the Prom Boutique in April.
The Woman’s Club of Evanston created Dreams Delivered in 2007. “We believe that every student in Evanston and neighboring communities, regardless of means, should be able to attend their senior prom,” stated Lyndsay Kane, co-chair for the event. In April, their historic clubhouse will transform into a very special prom boutique. New and nearly new formal dresses, shoes, jewelry, and accessories are provided free of charge to students. With the help of volunteers who act as personal shoppers, students enjoy a boutique experience where they “shop” for a prom dress, shoes, jewelry, and accessories that will enable them to attend the prom.
The partnership between The Woman’s Club of Evanston and The Ivy Pearl Foundation Inc. in conjunction with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Delta Chi Omega Chapter began in 2010. Delta Chi Omega Chapter members offer their support to Dreams Delivered by publicizing the event in the community, collecting dresses and accessories, purchasing items as needed, sorting donations, and serving as volunteers during the boutique nights.
The prom boutique served 40 Evanston Township High School students the first year. As the collection grew, students from neighboring communities were able to attend the boutique. A record number of students attended last year. Over 900 students have shopped for free at the boutique since it began. Student registration will begin in March.
Dreams Delivered is collecting formal dresses, evening shoes, sparkly jewelry, and accessories. Dresses should be “new or nearly new,” preferably three years old or less, or a classic, “timeless” design. Keep in mind that the students are looking for age-appropriate prom styles that they see in the stores. Monetary donations are also accepted. Men’s tuxedos and suits are not accepted.
To donate new or gently used formal dresses, shoes and other items, visit https://www.wcofe.org/ for contact information to find your nearest drop box location. The collection will run through March 13.