Shine Inc. helps students with prom costs

One of the most important events in any town, big or small, is that special night we all know as prom. It’s a night for those coming-of-age folks to pair up, dress up, and parade their glamor in front of their families and peers.
Unfortunately, though, not every young adult can participate in this magical evening. Times are tough and the prices of prom attire are even tougher.
Enter Aimee Gerla, an experienced educator and new resident of Mountain Grove, who hopes to give everyone, regardless of financial situation, a chance to attend prom.
Fifteen years ago, she and a friend co-founded Shine, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing prom attire to families in need. According to irs.gov, Shine Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, a federal designation for groups commonly referred to as charitable organizations.
“We were heartbroken to see students not getting excited about prom,” Gerla said. “I wanted every student to have a night where they could feel beautiful or handsome without worrying about money.”
Each year, the organization has been able to help approximately 50 young ladies and 15 gentlemen.
Shine Inc. provides personalized attention to patrons, ensuring the entire experience is satisfactory. Approximately 80% of the dresses available are new and are donated by Norman’s Bridal, MK Bridal, and Vintage Floral, as well as local families.
“As for the guys, we’ve started collecting suit jackets they can choose from,” Gerla said, adding that if a young man wants to rent a tuxedo, Shine Inc. will cover the cost from Karl’s Tuxedo in Springfield.
The organization, staffed entirely by passionate volunteers, aims to make life easier for families who want to give their children the best but may lack the financial ability to do so.
“Prom can be so expensive, on average, it costs around $800 for the dress, shoes, hair, makeup and accessories,” Gerla said. “Most families simply can’t afford that added expense on top of their regular bills.”
She stated that Shine Inc. has received tremendous community support and many residents are eager to help or contribute to the mission.
“Our location was generously donated by Max and Murlene Pamperien, and we are incredibly grateful for their blessing.”
Students who want to visit Shine Inc. are encouraged to request a voucher from their school counselor.
Shine Inc. will host a trivia night fundraiser at Basil Springs on Saturday, April 12, at 6 p.m. The evening will include a meal, auction, trivia, and a fashion show featuring prom dresses from past decades. To sponsor a table for $200 or donate an item, contact Gerla at shineinc3@gmail.com.
Shine Inc. is located at 105 W. 11th St. in Mountain Grove and is open Saturdays, Feb. 22-April 19, from 10 a.m. - noon. To contact, email shineinc3@gmail.com. To donate, a list of drop-off locations is available on shineinc.shop; monetary donations are accepted via the Venmo account @Shineinc.