Denver Charity Makes Sure Every Teen Has Something to Wear to Prom

The Prom Dress Exchange is an annual event that provides affordable prom wear to teens in the Denver area and beyond. It began as a prom dress drive more than 10 years ago and officially became a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation in 2010 after Laura Bauer took over as president. As a single mother of three who had gone prom shopping at thrift stores, Bauer was the perfect candidate to lead the organization.

 Bauer knows from personal experience that gems can be found in thrift stores. When she learned that the founder of the Prom Dress Exchange was ready to move on, she committed herself to continuing the service. Entirely run by volunteers, the Prom Dress Exchange collects and stores gently used prom wear and accessories throughout the year and holds a blowout sale every March. Teens only need to present a valid student ID and donate $10 or bring an outfit to exchange to be admitted to the event. Those who cannot donate won't be turned away, however, as the goal of the Prom Dress Exchange is to ensure that every teen can attend their prom in style.

This year's Prom Dress Exchange was held at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. The event saw more than 320 teens choose from over 1,350 donated prom dresses and formal wear.

“I am thrilled for each and every teen that leaves the Prom Dress Exchange event feeling like Prince Charming or Cinderella,” says Bauer. “What we do truly has an impact on the self-esteem of each teen who participates in our program.”

No donated item – be it a dress, a suit, a pair of shoes, or jewelry – ever goes to waste at the Prom Dress Exchange; those that do not find a home at the annual sale are passed on to other organizations.