High school grads can enjoy safe celebration this weekend
By Charles Christian
The St. Joseph Youth Alliance is hosting Project Graduation this weekend to provide a safe and fun alternative celebration for new high school graduates.
Julie Wiedmer, substance abuse prevention director for the Youth Alliance, said this event will provide both fun and peace of mind for parents and for students.
“The purpose is to provide a drug- and alcohol-free environment for students to celebrate,” Wiedmer said.
The event takes place Sunday, May 19, from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m., at the St. Joseph REC Center at 2701 Southwest Parkway. The event includes an airbrush tattoo artist, a hypnotist and prizes ranging from small items to big screen televisions. All items have been donated by local businesses.
Committee chair Jennifer Kerns said this event was postponed during the pandemic, and so the committee and the Youth Alliance are glad to be able to offer this event. She said that over 100 students have already indicated they will attend, and walk-ins are also welcome.
“Every public and private high school graduate is invited to attend, and every student will receive some kind of prize, thanks to the generosity of businesses in our community,” Kerns said.
Central High School senior Logan Garcia said he and his friends will be excited to spend this time together before heading off to college. He added that the fact that it is drug- and alcohol-free while also being a fun event is a good balance.
“I believe that being drug-free is important in being able to be successful in life,” Garcia said. “Plus, my friends and I will be able to celebrate, play games and win a bunch of free stuff together.”
Logan’s mother, Leah, said that the event takes away stress for parents and provides genuine fun for graduates.
“All these kids get an amazing experience,” Leah Garcia said. “And they get to celebrate all the hard work they’ve put in through all their school years.”
For more information, check out the Youth Alliance Facebook page, or call (816) 232-0050.
