GRADUATION IS KIND OF A BIG DEAL
The GRADitude Project ensures every Grade 12 student in Calgary can celebrate their graduation with confidence and style, regardless of financial circumstances.
Dress for success and celebrate your big day
The GRADitude Project helps Grade 12 graduates feel confident and celebrated by providing free dresses, suits, and personal care items, regardless of financial need. Each year, volunteers and community partners come together to support students as they get ready for one of their biggest moments. The GRADitude Project is about more than clothes—it’s about helping grads walk into their day feeling proud, supported, and ready for what’s next.
GET YOUR PERFECT FIT FOR GRAD
Every student gets access to a wide selection of stylish dresses, suits, and personal care items—all at no cost. Think of it as a pop-up grad boutique, complete with fitting rooms, alterations, accessories, and an uplifting vibe!
Apply to volunteer
Looking to make a meaningful impact? We welcome volunteers aged 21+. Just complete the form below. No experience is necessary, and training is provided.
SUPPORT THE PROGRAM
Your donation, no matter the size, helps us keep this event free for participants, ensuring costs aren’t a barrier to dignity. Donate today!
DONATE GENTLY USED ITEMS
Donations are accepted year-round! Your formalwear from the last 5 years can help someone shine at grad. We’re accepting:
- Suit jackets and pants (all sizes)
- Long graduation-style dresses (sizes 00–2 and 14+ most needed), but all sizes accepted
Drop off your items at these participating Stephen Cleaners locations and help make grad unforgettable.
In the press
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.
supporters
A Partnership with Trellis Society
Youth Central and Trellis Society have joined forces to make even more grad dreams happen. From dresses and suits to accessories and self-care essentials, we’re helping students feel confident, seen, and ready to step into their next chapter.
GRADitude Project builds on the incredible legacies of the Calgary Cinderella Project and Gradtown.
FAQ
GRADitude Project welcomes all identities, styles, and backgrounds. Whether you’re wearing a gown, a suit, or something in between, this space is for you.
We currently don’t have the resources or capacity to store other attire.
If you have other types of clothing you’re looking to donate, we recommend stopping by Good Neighbour or the Calgary Drop-In Centre.
We’re accepting volunteer applications all year long! Meet the volunteer requirements? Register today.
Shifts will take place one weekend in March and April. Once you register, we’ll send you an email once event dates are confirmed and volunteer spots are officially open.
Volunteers must be 21+ years old at the time of the event and have a valid police check (no older than 5 years)—Youth Central can cover the cost if the volunteer lives in Calgary. Please email graditudevolunteer@youthcentral.com.
Meet the requirements? Register today!
Questions?
To learn more about the program or to get in touch, please email us at: graditudevolunteer@youthcentral.com