Make Prom Dreams Come True

Find the perfect prom dress and accessories for just $5! Your style supports scholarships and empowers local students.
Teenagers in formal attire at different prom eventsYoung woman in a silver embroidered off-shoulder gown

Honoring Melissa & Crystal: A Legacy of Giving

In 2010, Melissa Michalowski, a vibrant Whitmore Ace Hardware employee, tragically lost her life in a car accident with her friend Crystal Carr. To honor their memory, Whitmore Ace Hardware created Melissa’s Closet and Crystal’s Jewelry Box.
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Two women smiling close-up, informal setting

What started as a small effort to provide $5 prom dresses has grown into an annual event dressing over 5,180 students to date. Held at Godley Park District, the event features thousands of dresses, donated accessories, and over 100 volunteers. Scholarships were introduced in 2015, with $10,500 awarded by 2018, and the goal to grow each year.

Melissa and Crystal’s legacy lives on through this initiative, bringing joy and opportunities to students in need.

Five women smiling in casual settings

Honoring Melissa & Crystal: A Legacy of Giving

In 2010, Melissa Michalowski, a vibrant Whitmore Ace Hardware employee, tragically lost her life in a car accident with her friend Crystal Carr. To honor their memory, Whitmore Ace Hardware created Melissa’s Closet and Crystal’s Jewelry Box.
Read More

What started as a small effort to provide $5 prom dresses has grown into an annual event dressing over 5,180 students to date. Held at Godley Park District, the event features thousands of dresses, donated accessories, and over 100 volunteers. Scholarships were introduced in 2015, with $10,500 awarded by 2018, and the goal to grow each year.

Melissa and Crystal’s legacy lives on through this initiative, bringing joy and opportunities to students in need.

Two smiling women posing closely for a selfieGroup of women smiling in a clothing store

Donation

Ensure your gently used prom dresses make a difference by following these simple guidelines:
Condition
Ensure dresses are clean, free of stains, and in good condition. Torn or heavily worn items cannot be accepted.
Style
We accept modern, formal dresses suitable for prom, including long gowns, cocktail dresses, and accessories.
Accessories
You’re welcome to donate shoes, purses, and jewelry, but they must be gently used and in excellent condition.
Drop-Off
All donations must be dropped off at any Whitmore Ace Hardware location before February 27th.

Your Closet Can Change Lives!

Your donation helps us provide affordable prom dresses and fund scholarships for local students.
Clothing rack beside table against vintage brick wall
Two girls holding dresses in a boutique
Prom Dress
Assorted colorful jewelry displayed on a table
Accessories
Stylist applying makeup on young girl in salon
Hair and Makeup

Upcoming Event: Melissa’s Closet & Crystal’s Jewelry Box 2025

Date: First Saturday of March 2025
Location: Godley Park District, 500 S. Kankakee Street, Godley, IL

Join us for our annual prom dress event!

Find your perfect prom look with thousands of stunning dresses priced at just $5. Accessories, including jewelry, shoes, and purses, will also be available to complete your outfit.
What to Expect
  • Over 2,500 dresses in various styles and sizes
  • 23 private dressing rooms for a comfortable try-on experience
  • Support from over 100 friendly volunteers

Doors Open at 9:00 AM

Arrive early—there’s always a line of excited students ready to find their dream dress!

DonateContact Us
Community event with hair styling, clothing donations, group photo
Elegant dresses hanging on a boutique rackVariety of elegant dresses hanging on boutique rack

Contact Us

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have questions, want to volunteer, or need more details about donating, fill out the form below, and we’ll get back to you soon.

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