Parents and students at Gilroy High School are already revving
up for graduation night with a host of fundraisers aimed at keeping
the night safe, sober and fun.
Parents and students at Gilroy High School are already revving up for graduation night with a host of fundraisers aimed at keeping the night safe, sober and fun.
Grad Nite’s mission is to provide a fun and memorable experience for graduates in a safe and sober environment, said Kim Dunbar, this year’s Grad Nite chair. The parent-sponsored and -organized event – held in the high school’s gymnasium between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. following graduation – includes food, drinks, a disc jockey and raffle prizes. The night following graduation is often a dangerous night for students, with many teens dying in alcohol-related accidents.
This year, the committee of parents organizing the event is working to raise about $27,000, Dunbar said. They’re kicking off the year selling Gizdich Ranch pies just in time for the holidays. Community members can support Grad Nite by purchasing a pumpkin, olallieberry or apple pie from a senior.
More fundraisers, including a fashion show and a Bunco night – a team game with dice – will round out the year, Dunbar said.
Although she hopes to see all 600 graduating seniors at Grad Nite, Dunbar said she knows some will not be able to afford the event, which has cost more than $50 in past years. For those students, the committee hopes to be able to provide scholarships, Dunbar said.
“The success of Grad Nite relies exclusively on community participation, fundraising and donations,” she said.
Grad Nite fundraisers
Oct. 5-18: Gizdich Ranch pies, contact any GHS senior (Apple and olallieberry pies are $14, pumpkin pies are $13)
Feb. 27: Fashion show
April 30: Bunco night at Westside Grill
The Grad Nite committee meets the fourth Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at South Valley Community Church. Contact Kim Dunbar 595-1393 for details.
