Trellis Society teams up with Youth Central on GRADitude Project to outfit 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.

Two Calgary non-profit agencies teamed up this weekend to make a few Calgary students’ graduation night celebration a little bit brighter.

Trellis Society and Youth Central presented GRADitude Project, providing graduating students with free graduation clothes and personal care items, including grad dresses, suits, shoes, accessories and other stuff.

It used to be two different initiatives -- Cinderella Project (Youth Central) and Grad Town (Trellis Society). Last year, Youth Central provided over 100 students from 34 different Calgary schools with graduation outfits, while Trellis Society also supported students through Grad Town, offering formal wear and accessories.

In 2025, the two organizations merged, combining expertise and resources.

“Thank you for your kindness in remembering that some of us out here feel ashamed to attend the graduation events,” said one youth participant, in a media release.

“Those of us who simply could not afford to get our dream dresses. Thank you for not only providing that for us but for also allowing us to feel like individuals deserving of pride and praise instead of making us feel like charity cases.”

Another youth participant said, ““This experience really motivates me to want to study hard and make sure I achieve my goals.”

Trellis Society is a community organization dedicating to help people from all backgrounds flourish, offering services ranging from housing, family and child development to clinical, employment and cultural supports.

Youth Central empowers young people to help build a sense of community through a range of leadership and volunteer opportunities.