Manchester High Project Graduation: The Tradition Continues

It is said, “the future is our children.”  Somehow, the future looks brightest when our young people celebrate their achievements at high school graduation. How do we encourage these students – our future?  How do we let them know how proud and hopeful we are?

recognizes and encourages them through , a drug- and alcohol-free post-graduation party that all graduating seniors are invited to attend free of charge. This year, the all-night event is scheduled for Monday, June 18, at Manchester Community College.  

The philosophy behind Project Graduation is to offer students a memorable evening out of harm’s way. Students can expect an exciting party atmosphere with a DJ, games, entertainment and plenty of great food.  

This celebration of Manchester’s graduating seniors is a 23-year tradition for the town and has truly become a community effort. Each year a committee of parent volunteers coordinates the event, while local businesses, restaurants, churches, families, teachers and BOE members provide support through contributions ranging from monetary donations to door prize items and food.

Door prizes are a highlight of the evening. Students have the opportunity to take home a variety of items, including flat screen TVs, personal electronics, laptop computers and gift cards. Also, with a $30 contribution, each graduating senior is eligible to participate in a drawing for a used car donated by Manchester Honda.

This year’s Project Graduation chairperson, Dawn Mockler, began planning the event in early fall.  

“It is an endeavor the committee takes very seriously because it is much safer to have the graduates all in one place, celebrating together in an alcohol- and substance-free environment,” said Mockler.  “It is designed as a high-energy event, so the students will have a great time and want to stay to the end. And the volunteers have just as much fun as the kids.”

MHS Project Graduation 2012 is grateful for past support and hopes the community will continue to support the event generously this year as well. You do not need to be the parent or guardian of a senior or have a student in the Manchester school system to submit a donation. We welcome donations from anyone in the community.

To make a tax-deductible donation, please make your check payable to MHS Project Graduation and mail to P.O. Box 2371, Manchester, CT 06045. If you would like to make a donation of food or door prizes, please contact Dawn Mockler at 860-645-9681 or busymomm@cox.net. Visit the Project Graduation website for more information.

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