Get Involved -- Passion for Fashion

[emme2009 (deleted)]

I began looking on the internet for various Native American volunteer projects that were available and would like to share with you one. Please donate or help out this worthy cause if you can. If you have a Facebook account, you can find them there as well. /Emme

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THE CHEYENNE RIVER YOUTH PROJECT® PREPARES FOR
ANNUAL “PASSION FOR FASHION ON SATURDAY, MARCH 13

CRYP Needs Dresses and Accessories to Help Make the 2010 Prom a Night to Remember

EAGLE BUTTE, SD (February 6, 2010) – The Cheyenne River Youth Project® in Eagle Butte, South Dakota, has begun preparations for one of its longest-running and most popular teen programs: Passion for Fashion. This annual event, created in 2001, provides support for teens who may not have the financial means to purchase prom essentials such as formal wear, jewelry and makeup; it also promotes intergenerational exchange, bonding and positive self-esteem and body image.

This years Passion for Fashion will take place at CRYPs Cokata Wiconi Teen Center on Saturday, March 13. All high-school girls on the Cheyenne River reservation will receive personalized invitations; however, Cheyenne Rivers junior-high girls are welcome to attend as well.

Last year, 44 teenage girls converged on the CRYP campus for an “Old Hollywood Glamour-themed event. The group enjoyed luncheon in the teen centers Internet Cafe, listened to a special presentation by Northern Plains Prevention, chose their prom dresses, participated in pampering activities such as facials, manicures, pedicures, make-overs and hair-styling, made a catwalk debut in the P4F Fashion Show and even performed karaoke. All participants received gift bags and had the chance to participate in a drawing for prizes.

And, amid all the fun and excitement, the girls received important messages about positive body image and building self-esteem that CRYP staff and volunteers hope they will retain for the rest of their lives.

“Passion for Fashion is an important opportunity to meet with our communitys young women and talk to them about the challenges they face in feeling strong, successful and comfortable in their own skin, said Alexandra Meador, CRYPs former youth programs director and this years Passion for Fashion event coordinator. “Each year, we talk about these issues and, because intergenerational support is so important, we connect teens with adult women in the community who can act as positive role models. Its a wonderful bonding experience.

In the nine years since its inception, CRYPs Passion for Fashion program has ignited enthusiasm among the communitys youth, who eagerly look forward to it each year.

“For teenage girls around the country, spring means shopping for evening gowns, finding just the right accessories and enjoying the mounting excitement that precedes one of a teens most treasured experiences  the prom, Meador said. “This is one night in a high-school experience that should be special for everyone, so we need the support of our communities, donors and friends to help make the 2010 prom a memorable one for Cheyenne Rivers young women.

In short, the youth project needs prom dresses and accessories. Lots of them. CRYP is asking for new and gently used dresses in sizes four to 26; jewelry and hair accessories; formal shoes; and makeup and bath sets. Gift cards and cash donations are also much appreciated; staff and volunteers will take the contributed funds and make additional purchases based on need.

“Wed like to grow and expand our Passion for Fashion program this year to reach every teen girl in our area, but we cant do it without the help of our friends and supporters, Meador said. “Were encouraging everyone to make a contribution, no matter how big or small, to help make this years prom season one that our teens will remember for the rest of their lives.

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

¨If you would like to support the Cheyenne River Youth Projects Passion for Fashion program this year, please considering contributing any of the following:

-New/Gently Used Prom Dresses (Sizes 4-26, especially sizes 16-26)
-Dress Accessories (Examples: Purses, Wraps, Scarves)
-Formal Shoes
-Jewelry
-Hair Accessories & Care Products
-Facial, Manicure & Pedicure Supplies
-Makeup and Bath Sets
-Gift Cards
-Cash Donations

CRYP usually makes a variety of additional purchases for the Passion for Fashion event, including makeup, food and some accessories, so every contribution helps. Please send donations to CRYP at P.O. Box 410, East Lincoln Street, Eagle Butte, SD 57625. To make a financial contribution, either mail to the above address or simply visit the youth projects Web site at www.lakotayouth.org, click “Help CRYP and select “Monetary Donations.

To ensure that CRYP staff and volunteers have time to prepare for the Passion for Fashion event on March 13, please send all packages and contributions by March 10. The youth project also will gladly accept late donations, since many teens who are unable to attend the event itself will pick up their dresses at a later date. Donations for next year are welcome as well! For more information, call (605) 964-8200 or send e-mail to (removed).

Heather Steinberger :D