BRADENTON, FL – Since 2009, nonprofit organization Night With The Stars Prom, Inc. has helped Sarasota and Manatee County residents of all abilities, ages 16 and up, to enjoy a fabulous – and free – prom. This year’s event, themed “Night at the ‘50s,” is taking place in mid-April at Woodland Community Church in Bradenton. There are expected to be over 450 guests and caregivers in attendance.

Night With The Stars Prom is a nonprofit organization run solely by volunteers. Everything for the prom is donated by companies and members of surrounding communities, from the red carpet at the entryway to the decorations, desserts, table service, music, and photos. The volunteers ensure that suits and prom dresses – with accessories – are available at no charge for those guests who attend special try-on events, and alterations are also provided. There are also individuals who donate their time and talent by doing hair and makeup for the guests.

This year, Goodwill Manasota became involved in the effort, donating 45 gift cards to its retail stores so that prom guests could shop for clothing, shoes and accessories. In previous years, guests had to be brought to a storage facility to try on donated clothing; now, they are getting to enjoy a special shopping trip with lots of options.

“We are thrilled to be involved with Night With The Stars Prom this year and help create lasting memories for individuals with disabilities who may have never had the opportunity to attend a high school prom before,” said Goodwill Manasota President and CEO Donn Githens. “At Goodwill, we believe that individuals with disabilities should have the same access to work and play as others may take for granted. We have been happy to provide formal wear for this year’s Prom guests and hope they will have a fantastic time!”

McDevitt is already looking for a new venue for next year’s event: Woodland Community Church has generously provided the venue at no cost for over a decade but the event has outgrown the available space. She is also seeking to bolster the organization’s volunteer base, as the disruption and health concerns due to the pandemic greatly reduced her available manpower.

“Every detail of the prom is provided by the generosity of people in the community through their time and contributions of money, goods, and services. We appreciate the participation and generosity of Goodwill this year – it has given our guests the opportunity for a real shopping expedition that I know they enjoyed,” said Night With The Stars Prom president, Mary Anne McDevitt. “I always urge those who contribute to the effort to come and see what they’re donating to – you’ve never seen so much love in one room! Our guests walk in and they’re just so happy.”

For more about Night With The Stars Prom, visit nightwiththestarsprom.org. For more about Goodwill, visit experiencegoodwill.org.

Photo ID: (From l-r) Saba Canfield, Night With The Stars Prom volunteer Rose Long, Shari Donaldson (front), NWTSP president Mary Anne McDevitt, Adriene Evans, NWTSP volunteer Nina Burtram, and Pavitra Ciavardone of Goodwill

About Goodwill Manasota

Goodwill Manasota is an industry-leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that changes lives through the power of work. With philanthropic donations and revenue generated by the sales of donated goods, Goodwill is able to assist people with disabilities, veterans, seniors, and those with other barriers to employment by providing jobs, job skills training, and free career services. For more information or for a listing of locations, visit www.experiencegoodwill.org or call 941-355-2721.