Local Initiative Expands to Include Suit Up for Prom Experience

Students in Salisbury, North Carolina, will have enhanced opportunities for their prom experience this year, thanks to the second annual Say Yes to the Prom Dress initiative. Led by Jante Gibson-Bryant, the event has expanded to include a new program called Suit Up for Prom, ensuring that young men can also participate fully in prom festivities.

Last year, the inaugural Say Yes to the Prom Dress successfully provided over 100 dresses to students. Sponsored by Gibson-Bryant’s nonprofit organization, Awakenher Wellness, the initiative aimed to create a memorable prom experience for those who might have financial barriers. Recipients not only received dresses but also enjoyed services that included manicures, pedicures, hairstyles, and dinner, all provided through generous sponsorships.

The upcoming event, scheduled for March 14, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Salisbury Civic Center, will once again offer a complete prom package. This year, nominations for the Perfect Prom Experience will be accepted until 11:59 PM on March 1. Nominations may be submitted by teachers, counselors, friends, family, or even self-nominations, and must highlight the nominee’s character, leadership, academic achievements, and commitment to personal growth.

Gibson-Bryant expressed her excitement about the new Suit Up for Prom initiative, which results from a partnership with Communities in Schools. “We’re not just doing prom dresses this year; we’re also providing suits for the young men,” she stated. The aim is to ensure that both senior girls and boys from Rowan-Salisbury Schools enjoy a truly memorable prom experience.

The nomination requirements are specific. Students must be seniors attending a Rowan-Salisbury high school and demonstrate qualities such as outstanding character and a commitment to their community. Nominators are asked to provide detailed information, including the nominee’s full name, age, high school, extracurricular activities, and notable achievements, alongside a recent photograph.

Gibson-Bryant has set an ambitious target for this year’s event, hoping to double the number of dresses distributed to around 500. Currently, she has amassed close to 200 dresses and is actively seeking additional donations of formal wear, shoes, and jewelry. She emphasizes the importance of quality, stating, “I’m picky about these things. I want to ensure that the dresses and suits are up to a superb standard.”

Collection for donations will conclude on March 1, with a drop-off scheduled for February 28 at Second Presbyterian Church in Salisbury. Students from all counties are welcome to participate in the event, which aims to create a boutique-like experience complete with dressing rooms and large mirrors.

“My goal is to always give an experience,” Gibson-Bryant explained, emphasizing her desire for students to feel empowered and valued. She believes that providing these opportunities not only supports the students but also contributes to her own healing journey. Having dropped out of school in the ninth grade, Gibson-Bryant is passionate about ensuring that no student feels financially excluded from attending prom.

In reflecting on last year’s event, a friend noted, “I watched so much shame walk in and so much joy walk out,” a sentiment that resonated deeply with Gibson-Bryant. This feedback solidified her commitment to the initiative, reinforcing her belief that such experiences can foster healing and empowerment for both students and herself.

As the event approaches, Gibson-Bryant is optimistic about the potential impact. With the help of volunteers and sponsors, she hopes to create an inclusive and joyous prom experience for all participants. Those interested in donating or becoming sponsors can reach out via email at [email protected], while students can register to participate through the event’s Eventbrite page.