And that’s a wrap! Gowns for Prom 2025 was a HUGE success…thanks to you!

Wow! We are simply overwhelmed with gratitude and joy as we reflect on another incredible Gowns for Prom season. Thanks to the amazing generosity and spirit of our Western New York community, Gowns for Prom 2025 was a phenomenal success! We are absolutely thrilled to report that nearly 1,000 prom gowns found their way to deserving students across WNY, completely free of charge, ensuring they could attend their prom feeling confident and beautiful.

This achievement wouldn't be possible without a massive collective effort, and we want to extend our deepest thanks to everyone involved:

• To the entire WNY Community: Your donations of beautiful gowns, accessories, and your unwavering support form the very foundation of this program. Your belief in helping your neighbors shine is truly inspiring.

• To our dedicated Colvin Cleaners Customers: Thank you for consistently supporting us and participating in our drives. Your contributions throughout the year make a significant difference.

• To our incredible 120+ Volunteers: You are the heart and soul of the distribution days! Your time, energy, smiles, and dedication to helping each student find the perfect gown were truly remarkable. From setup to cleanup, sorting to assisting shoppers, you made the magic happen!

• To our generous Sponsors: Your financial and logistical support is crucial. Your partnership allows us to manage the program effectively and reach more students each year.

• To the participating Schools and Students: Thank you to the schools for helping us connect with students, and thank you to the students for coming out and allowing us the privilege of being part of your special prom journey. Your excitement was contagious!

We often say it, because it's absolutely true: We simply cannot do this without you, the community. Gowns for Prom is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together to support our youth.

Colvin Cleaners is deeply committed to giving back to the community that supports us. As President & CEO Paul Billoni often states, "Doing good in the community isn't just a part of our business, it's a top priority. Initiatives like Gowns for Prom and Coats 4 Kids are central to our identity and allow us to continuously fulfill our commitment to supporting WNY families."

The success and positive energy surrounding the program this year were palpable. Vice President Chris Billoni shared, "The outpouring of support for Gowns for Prom 2025 was truly exceptional. Witnessing nearly 1,000 students find their dream gown, thanks to the collective effort of our community, volunteers, and sponsors, highlights the incredible generosity of WNY and the real impact we can make together."

For Cyndee Billoni, Colvin Cleaners owner and the driving force behind Gowns for Prom, the experience is always deeply moving. "Every single year, I am profoundly touched by the interactions and the pure happiness we see on these students' faces," Cyndee says. "It’s incredibly rewarding and truly magical to know that we've helped ease a financial burden and enabled so many young students to fully embrace and enjoy a significant milestone like their prom."

As prom season concludes, we have a small request for the students who received gowns: if you wish, please consider donating your gown back to the program! Doing so allows another student to experience the same joy next year.

And remember, our collection efforts don't stop! We gratefully accept donations of gently used prom gowns, bridesmaid dresses, shoes, handbags, and jewelry all year round at Colvin Cleaners or any of our DONATION LOCATIONS. Your contributions keep the cycle of giving going strong.

For more information about the program or how to donate, please visit our website at www.gownsforprom.com.

Thank you again, Western New York, from the bottom of our hearts, for your kindness, your generosity, and for making Gowns for Prom 2025 a resounding success! You helped make nearly 1,000 prom dreams come true!