New Rochelle Small Business Spotlight: Operation PROM

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this exciting series — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

Busisess name: Operation PROM, a 501(c)3 non-profit

Owners: Board of Directors: Noel D’Allacco, Founder & President, Matthew McCarrick, Vice President, Tina D’Allacco, Secretary, Henry D’Allacco, Treasurer. Board Members: Mario Mirabella, Lisa Vitiello, Susie Mordoh, Laura Sanchez, Lauren Pistone, Meryl Lefkowitz, Jovan Richards, Lisa Barner, Kendra Porter.
Website: www.OperationPROM.org
Address: 524 North Ave, New Rochelle (by appointment only)

How did you come up with the name?

I thought Operation PROM would be a great name, so that people knew we help with Prom services, but what most people don’t know is that the acronym actually stands for is Providing Resources Opportunity and Mentoring - since we do much more!

Why start a business in this town?

New Rochelle is our new home and we love that it is in a convenient location with ample public transportation. We’re right at 524 North Ave.!

What business are you in?

We are a national non profit that provides free prom dresses, tuxedos, school supplies and scholarships for students in need.

What’s the most difficult challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

Ensuring that we reach every student in need. We have a great relationship with Westchester schools and government agencies, but sometimes students don’t hear about us until its too late, and we don’t want that to happen when we are here to help.

What’s been your proudest achievement since opening?

We’ve expanded to 9 states across the US and have helped over 15,000 students over the years.

How does your business give back to the community?

Prom dresses, tuxedos, school supplies and scholarships.

Would you like to see your small business showcased in this series? Email wendy.mitchell@ patch.com.