Project Graduation Still in Need of Donations

Cory Grace, one of the organizers for Project Graduation, tells us that donations are still needed for the 18th annual all-night, alcohol and drug free party for new Danvers High grads.

The "chemical-free" party is held the night of June 8 at Cedardale Athletic Club in Haverhill following the commencement exercises earlier that day at DHS.

Grace says there are chaperones, a lot of fun activities, music, food and entertainment for the kids planned, such as vintage clothing photos, caricatures, a baby photo contest, basketball, tennis, racquetball, swimming, karaoke and a hypnosis show.

There's also a midnight sandwich buffet, snacks, beverages and an ice cream buffet.

She said Project Graduation costs about $15,000 to put on and relies on donations from the community.

Grace told the Salem News in a recent interview that 60-70 percent of the graduating class usually participates.

She said seniors purchase tickets the week before graduation and parents or guardians then sign contracts that promise their graduate will stay at the party all night long. The graduates also take Breathalyzer tests beforehand.

Transportation is provided to and from Haverhill and Project Graduation concludes with breakfast at the Danversport Yacht Club Sunday morning.

To make a donation, send checks to DHS Project Graduation, Danvers High School, 60 Cabot Rd., Danvers, MA 01923. For anyone who wishes to claim the contribution as a tax-deductible donation, checks should be made out to DEEP, a 501(c)(3)organization, and write "Project Graduation" in the memo line.