Press Release of the Week: Belle of the Ball

Belle of the Ball

SPRINGFIELD – The high school prom conjures up images of jubilant teenagers at what is often their first formal event, dressed to the nines in floor-length gowns and rented tuxedos.

While it’s true that the prom isn’t the most academic of all high school pursuits, it’s importance to students is clear. Not only is the prom a long-standing American tradition, but it also signifies the transition from childhood to adulthood for young women in particular. 

The Springfield Woman’s Committee (SWC), an ad-hoc Committee of the Springfield City Council, recognized this importance two years ago, when the city’s public high schools considered canceling the prom due to financial stresses in the schools and in the community. Marci Webber, member of the SWC, said public outcry was louder than expected, and to ensure the dance would go on, the group began collecting previously worn dresses to redistribute throughout the greater Springfield area, and created an event that adds new excitement to prom season: the Belle of the Ball Boutique.

“This was so that no girl has to miss her prom because she could not afford a new dress,” said Webber, noting that the SWC spearheaded the event last year, but has now joined forces with Springfield Public Schools to bring Belle of the Ball in-house. “The new partnership underscores the face that young adults in our community should be entitled to all of the opportunities that are afforded to others.”

Girls from all Springfield Public high schools planning on attending their proms are invited to the Springfield High School of Science and Technology on May 1 and May 8, 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., where they are invited to ‘shop’ in a boutique atmosphere. 

“The girls shop for their dress and accessories that match accordingly,” explained Webber. “They also will be given ideas for hair and make-up, all for free, and each will go home with a dress and accessories of their choice.”                                               

The SWC is currently seeking donations of formal wear, accessories, and shoes, as well as volunteers to assist on the day of the event, and help secure in-kind donations from dry cleaners and seamstresses. All formal wear will be welcomed, and if possible, dresses should be cleaned prior to donation.  Dresses in all sizes and lengths are needed, and can be dropped off at Naomi’s Inn, 20 Springfield Street in Springfield at any time, NUVO Bank during bank hours, or at Mall Services at Eastfield Mall, Boston Road in Springfield, during mall hours.                                                                                                            

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