Project Graduation is a nonprofit organization that fund raises throughout the year to build funds for a lock-in filled with safety, fun, and giveaways for graduates. It is held after the graduation ceremony and lasts until the next morning. Upon entry, all seniors who submit completed paperwork are given a sum of money dependent upon the amount of funds raised that year. Usually, this amount is around $100-$150. There are food, games, inflatables, and music to keep the party goers occupied throughout the night. The next morning, gifts are awarded that were donated by local businesses.

Sounds like fun doesn’t it? Just ask seven-year volunteer and Project Graduation board member Teresa Gannon to learn more about this awesome experience.

“I first volunteered in 2010-2011 and immediately realized what good it did for everyone who participated. Instead of running the roads late at night, they can go to the high school,  eat food, jump in inflatables, and also spend some time with their friends the last night before the real world.”

In order to make this party possible, Project Graduation has to have fundraisers.  Bonnaroo supports the first fundraiser by giving a donation as a result of the workers volunteering.  In addition, Project Graduation relies on student participation to sell products such as candy bars, candles, 31 accessories, turkeys, and beef jerky. The organization also puts on a motorcycle ride and a Drive Your Ford event.

Teresa said, “Each year, we raise somewhere around $35,000-$45,000. It’s really all dependent on how our fundraisers go and how much participation we have.”

To get involved, all students have to do is go to one of the meetings. These are held on the first Tuesday of every month at 6:00 p.m. in the Coffee County Central High School Library. From there, forms and contracts are completed. Then students are cleared to attend the party.

In a final remark, Teresa said: “I don’t see any reason why any graduates wouldn’t want to spend their last night before the real world in the company of their friends in a safe, fun, and rewarding environment.”