High school students across northeast Ohio will have the chance to find a prom dress for free later this month at a long-running community event in Akron.
Altrusa International of Akron is hosting its 25th annual Princess Night Project on Saturday, March 28 at E.J. Thomas Hall on the campus of The University of Akron.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and offers a completely free prom shopping experience for girls from high schools throughout northeast Ohio and beyond.
Organizers say more than 2,000 dresses will be available, arranged by size to make shopping easier. Volunteers serve as personal shoppers, helping students browse the racks and find a gown they love.
In addition to dresses, the event also offers dress shoes, purses, and jewelry to complete a prom look.
Since the program began in 2001, Altrusa members say the Princess Night Project has helped nearly 3,500 girls attend prom with a dress they might not otherwise have been able to afford.
There are no requirements to attend. Students do not need a recommendation or pre-registration. Organizers only ask for the student’s school name and how they heard about the event.
Free parking will be available in the E.J. Thomas Hall parking deck, while other university lots may be subject to ticketing.
Organizers say the goal of the event is simple: helping students feel confident and celebrated during one of high school’s most memorable nights.
