Submitted by The Woman’s Club of Evanston
The Woman’s Club of Evanston and the Ivy Pearl Foundation in conjunction with Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority Inc., Delta Chi Omega are thrilled to announce the Dreams Delivered Prom Boutique for high school students, where formal dresses, shoes and jewelry are provided free of charge to any student who participates. This year’s event will be held from April 16-18 at the Woman’s Club of Evanston (WCE), 1702 Chicago Avenue.
“At the Woman’s Club of Evanston, we believe every student, regardless of their means, should be able to attend their senior prom. In that spirit, Dreams Delivered was created,” says Sheila Best, co-chair of the event. “Each spring, our historic clubhouse is transformed into a very special prom boutique. New and nearly new formal dresses, shoes, and jewelry are provided free of charge to any high school student who wants to wear a dress.”
Since 2007, Dreams Delivered has outfitted more than 900 students. The program also works with other organizations serving students in the nearby area.
The partnership between the WCE 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 Women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Delta Chi Omega Chapter in collaboration with Ivy Pearl Foundation are honored to partner with The Woman’s Club of Evanston for Dreams Delivered Prom Boutique,” says Stella Salisu Hickman, president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Delta Chi Omega Chapter. “As an organization we strive to intentionally uplift our community and invest in the lives of youth. We can’t wait to see the smiles on their faces when they find the perfect dress. Our members have been serving high school girls in the Evanston community for over 75 years. Our goal for this year’s prom boutique remains the same, to see youth shine during important moments in their lives.”
The Dreams Delivered Prom Boutique spans three evenings and is staffed by more than 50 volunteers who assist the students as they “shop” for dresses, shoes, and jewelry. WCE and Delta Chi Omega Chapter volunteer “personal shoppers” help the students make their selections. Volunteer seamstresses are available to make free minor alterations on site. The Tricoci University of Beauty and Culture students provide mini makeovers, including hairstyles and makeup application. These finishing touches really transform the teens.
Dreams Delivered is more than dresses and accessories; it is a service to the students’ self-esteem. The teens undergo a transformation as they are outfitted and made over to be ready for their prom.
“I didn’t know I could look this good” is often heard as they leave the boutique as beautiful, confident, young adults. One student who attended Dreams Delivered in 2022 said, “There are so many options available and the option for alterations made it encouraging to find and pick a dress if it didn’t fit perfectly. Everyone is kind and encouraging and patient. This was a great experience.”
Students can sign up to attend the boutique at: https://tinyurl.com/DreamsDelivered2023.
Every student must have an appointment to participate.