File photo | Jefferson Post
Girls collected money in Ingles’ parking lot during last year’s Project Graduation fundraiser.
A fundraiser will be held this weekend from Friday, April 19 through Sunday, April 21 in Ingles’ parking lot to raise money for the 21st annual Project Graduation.
According to Vicki Herman, the goal of this three-day fundraiser is to collect $25,000 for project graduation.
“For everyone who donates $50, they will have a chance to win four different prizes,” which will be awarded after a drawing on May 17, said Herman.
The four gifts available to $50 donors include a 42-inch television from Modern Toyota, a gas grill from Sexton Tree Farms, a leaf blower from Hart Power Equipment, and a pressure washer donated by Roger Blevins.
Hotdogs and drinks will be available to anyone who donates during the fundraiser. Also, inflatables will be stationed in Ingles parking lot for children to play on during the fundraiser.
Project Graduation is an alcohol and drug-free event that begins right after graduation and lasts through the night. Students are able to win prizes, play video games and enjoy food provided by local restaurants. Project Graduation’s staff is comprised of student’s parents, family and friends who volunteer their time after graduation.
The event was started in 1992 in order to keep seniors safe after graduating, and according to Herman, there haven’t been any accidents or fatalities following on graduation night in the last 20 years.
Herman said over 6,000 seniors and guests have visited project graduation over the years. She also said the event has been well attended; 95 percent of the graduating class visits Project Graduation from year to year.
Project Graduation has provided a fantastic environment for a wholesome fun night of activities for our young adults.
Now, if we could just figure out how to keep the graduating class year from appearing on every road sign in Ashe County each May it would be even more wonderful !