Naples Daily News (Florida)

May 23, 2009 Saturday
Naples Daily News Edition

D; Pg. 1

320 words

Wal-Mart helps save Project Graduation

Special to the Daily News; Robin Siewers

Thanks to a $10,000 donation from Collier County Wal-Mart stores, graduating seniors will be able to enjoy YMCA Project Graduation, an all-night drug and alcohol-free celebration for graduating high school seniors.

The 2009 event will be held at the Greater Naples YMCA on Friday from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. Project Graduation is celebrating its 24th anniversary and has grown to attract more than 1,200 graduates from nine area schools.

With the recent contribution from Wal-Mart, the YMCA still needs to raise $10,000 to meet its $65,000 fundraising goal, which will cover the direct costs of the event. Other major sponsors include Collier County Rotary Clubs and Arthrex Inc. "This is a true community event where parents, schools, businesses and community organizations all come together for the benefit of the kids. The graduates deserve a safe place to celebrate this milestone in their lives. We're happy that we've been able to support an event that they really enjoy," said Larry Graham of Wal-Mart.

The event's success depends heavily upon generous donations of money, food, prizes and gift certificates.

"This event has become a Collier County tradition as it involves parents, schools, businesses and organizations joining together in support of tomorrow's Collier County business leaders, employees and parents. We are so thankful for Wal-Mart's support," said Sandy Graham, Project Graduation coordinator.

Graduates enjoy an all-night celebration including food, entertainment, games, prizes and more. Activities include a rock-climbing wall, mechanical bull rides, cash machine madness, jousting contests, a DJ for dancing, carnival games and movies. Graduates also have access to an all-night buffet and coffee house. The entry fee for the event is $20.

Graduates must purchase tickets from their respective high schools.

Robin Siewers is the director of corporate membership/communications at YMCA of the Palms

May 23, 2009