Graduation is a kind of a big deal.
GRADitude Project
We’re here to make getting ready for it easier.
We provide free graduation dresses, suits and personal care items to Grade 12 students, ensuring they can enjoy their big day with confidence, no matter their financial situation. In 2025, in partnership with Trellis Society and with the help of over 190 amazing volunteers, we outfitted nearly 200 from across our city. Stay tuned as we prepare for an even better 2026!
Gradutate Registration
To Participate: If you’re a soon to be Grade 12 graduate who would like to participate in this fabulous free event, complete the Graduate Registration Form. Spaces are limited, so sign up early to avoid disappointment.
Apply to Volunteer
To Volunteer: If you’re looking for a volunteer experience that leaves your heart full, complete the Volunteer Registration Form on our database. These spots go fast every year, so to don’t delay!
Event Dates
GRADitude is held during one weekend in March and April. Participants can register for any one of those dates.
- March 14 – 15, 2026
- April 18 – 19, 2026
Support GRADitude
Your donations are the heartbeat of this project. They help us cover venues, storage, and the promotion and management of the event, ensuring every grad has the motivation and support to graduate with confidence. Ready to make a difference? Please give generously.
Donate Formalwear
If you have gently used formalwear from the last five years, consider donating it to change a young grad’s life! We’re currently accepting suits and pants of all sizes and long dresses sized 00 – 2 and 14+. Sorry, we do not accept shirts or shoes at this time.
To donate: Drop your items off at the Stephen Cleaners locations in Bowness, Crowfoot, Hamptons, University District, Varsity Acres, and West Springs.
In the News
The Globe and Mail: Teens who don’t have $600 for a prom outfit get stylish finds at donation events
This year, the Calgary-based GRADitude Project brought in about 200 students, double the numbers from last year – in part because they began offering suits as well as dresses.
Calgary Herald: GRADitude gives Calgary high school students style, confidence on their big day
Groups come together to ensure every Grade 12 student can get the graduation attire of their dreams, regardless of their financial situation
CTVNews: GRADitude Project outfits students with free graduation outfits
At GRADitude, two Calgary non-profits teamed up to provide free graduation gear for Calgary students who otherwise might not have been able to afford their big night
What Folks Are Saying