Project Graduation For Class Of 2021 Hopes To Raise $10K

BRANFORD, CT — The non-profit group focused on celebrating the Branford High School graduating class hopes to raise $10,000 to make sure the 200 graduating seniors, who due to COVID-19 will not have the traditional safe, substance-free, all-night event after graduation, receive special gifts and are able to attend a collection of stand-alone events.

“We have been crossing our fingers all year in hopes that we could provide our usual all-night event for our Seniors,” Project Graduation parent volunteer Katina Gionteris said.

“At this point in the planning process we have decided that while it’s going to look a little different this year," she said. "We are creating a series of activities and giveaways to let them know our community is here to recognize all their hard work.”

In an effort to stay true to the spirit of Project Graduation, a media release reads, the committee is working to weave in the lessons and benefit of making smart choices to celebrate free of alcohol and drugs. The Project Graduation team is planning on providing gift cards, a senior-only luncheon, goody bags, balloons, banners, and a special video montage of seniors.

Project Graduation has always been dependent on the generosity of community members, business sponsors and organizations throughout town and has had incredible support over the years.

“We are hoping this year will be no different,” another parent volunteer, Lauren Loomis, said. “There is something for everyone including our very popular Balloons for Seniors.”

How to donate to, and help, Project Graduation

Visit Jiffy Lube, located at 322 W. Main St., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and a portion of all proceeds will be generously donated to Project Graduation by Rene and Chris Hood.

Participating restaurant Chipotle will have a Project Graduation night on Tues. April 27 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. When customers present a special flyer or email and a portion of the profits will also be donated. The flyer can be shown from a smartphone or simply tell the cashier "you’re supporting the cause to make sure that 33% of the proceeds will be donated to Project Graduation," the flyer reads.

Chipotle Flyer by Ellyn Santiago

On Thursday May 6, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Ashley's Ice Cream, when customers mention Project Graduation, a portion of the profits will be donated.

At Color Street Dry Nail Polish, proceeds on Project Graduation sales now through May 15 will be generously donated by Tina Holt. Click here to shop.

The Sneaker Drive for Project Graduation. Gather together any old sneakers and during the month of May there will be a collection at BHS. Project Graduation will get anywhere from $1 to $7 depending on the brand and condition.

Balloons for Seniors is the most popular and profitable fundraiser of the year giving each senior the gift of balloons. Karen Erickson continues to lead this effort and payments can be made by Venmo to @balloonsforseniorsbranfordct or by check to "Branford Project Graduation" mailed to Balloons for Seniors c/o Erickson, 169 Hotchkiss Grove Rd., Branford, CT 06405. Email for balloon forms or questions to Balloonsforseniorsbranfordct.gmail.com or visit the Project Graduation website here.

To make a general donation to the Project Graduation efforts via PayPal to “Branford Project Graduation”. Donations by check can be made out to "Branford Project Graduation" and mailed to Project Graduation, 185 Main St., Branford, CT 06405

For more information visit the website here and/or email general questions to Katina Gionteris branfordprojgrad@gmail.com.