Kristy Hirt, Natalie Hirt, Mandy Paavola, and Denee Wells prepare to make dreams come true

Prince George, BC – Today will be all about making dreams come true for a number of teens in the city, as they’re treated to a prom dress and accessories from a ‘gallery’ of goodwill.

While prom is a luxury, the organizers of Prince George Dress Dreams have been working diligently to make it a reality for any girl in the city who’d like to attend her grade 12 celebration, but may not have the financial means to dress up for the occasion.

Earlier this year, PGDD Founder, Mandy Paavola, put out a call for donations and city residents and businesses came through with a showroom full of items guaranteed to make a young girl swoon, from racks of gorgeous gowns, to show-stopping heels, and accessories.

Paavola says the 20 girls taking part in today’s ‘shopping spree’ were nominated by a teacher or other mentor in their lives and come from every high school and alternative program in the city.

She says the girls have staggered appointments throughout the day.  "They get one-on-one attention from our members, someone helps them through their journey," says Paavola.   After finding a dress, shoes, and accessories, the girls will have their hair and make-up done prior to a photo shoot with Berg Media.

"And then they have a professional shot of themselves, in their grad dress, which a lot of these girls would never be able to afford," she says.

The volunteers are expecting an exhausting, but exhilarating day. 

At right, Denee Wells helps sort through some of the 400 dresses donated for today’s event.

The DP Todd teacher says she first learned of the program last fall and, after meeting with Paavola, was excited to get involved.  She’s now a member of the non-profit’s board.

With today marking the 2nd Annual Prince George Dress Dreams, the organizers are hopeful they’ll be making dreams come true for young women in this city for years to come.

For more information, or to get involved, go to www.princegeorgedressdreams.webs.com or email pgdressdreams@yahoo.ca