For many high school girls, going to the prom is an event anticipated for years-but not going to the prom because the family can't afford a formal dress can be devastating. This year, thanks to the Highline Schools Foundation for Excellence, a number of high school students will be going to the prom in beautiful dresses donated by local organizations and members of the community.

On Saturday, April 23, the girls had the opportunity to select shoes, bags and other accessories as well as dresses contributed by the local community.

In its 3rd Annual Project PROMise(tm), the Highline Schools Foundation collected beautiful new and gently worn formal dresses and gowns, shoes, and accessories from throughout the community and invited high school students in need to "go shopping" for the perfect dress for their prom. The dresses are offered to the girls to keep, or they may return them to the Foundation to be used the following year.

On Friday, April 22 the foundation put on a fashion show, complete with runway, hair and make-up donated by Serenza Salon & Spa. Girls from Highline High School, Mount Rainier High School, Evergreen High School, Tyee High School, Thomas Jefferson High School, and Decatur High School walked the runway modeling a variety of dress styles. Times/News photographer Kurt Howard was there to take some photos.