CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) A unique and beloved tradition continues this month in downtown Champaign as the fourth annual #cuPromGiveaway kicks off, offering students the chance to pick out prom dresses, suits, shoes, accessories, and more — entirely free of charge.

Organized by former Champaign County Recorder of Deeds Mike Ingram, the giveaway has grown year after year, helping outfit thousands of local teens with formalwear for prom, graduation, and other big moments. This year, the event will be hosted inside the historic Lincoln Building at 44 E Main St., with “shopping” hours running now through April 21.

“We’re hoping to give out over 1,000 items again,” said Ingram. “Every single item is free, and every single item could be the one that makes a young person feel incredible on their big night.”

This year’s event remains a deeply personal project. It is held in honor of Tomarra Motley and Jodi Evelsizer, two local women whose support and generosity helped shape the first year of the giveaway.

Jodi, even while undergoing cancer treatment in Chicago, made sure to send contributions. Tomarra’s daughter, fittingly, took home the first-ever dress from the event. “It’s a legacy of kindness and community spirit that keeps growing,” Ingram said.

Volunteers are the backbone of the effort. People like Paula Strong, a veteran of the event and resident seamstress, have altered dozens of dresses for students over the years. “I can’t work miracles,” she says, “but I do try very hard.”

Anyone with formalwear, shoes, accessories, or handbags to donate can drop them off through mid-April at locations including Farren’s, Fire Doll Studio, Beads N Botanicals, Catch My Thrift, and Keller Williams in Champaign. Items are also accepted directly at the event site during open hours.

Students are welcome to browse during the following times:

  • April 10: 4–7 p.m.
  • April 12: 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
  • April 13: 2–5 p.m.
  • April 15: 3–6 p.m.
  • April 17: 3–6 p.m.
  • April 19: 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
  • April 21: 2–5 p.m.

Anyone interested in volunteering or donating can find more info via the Mike Ingram For Everyone Facebook page or by searching #cuPromGiveaway online.

Ingram summed it up simply: “We just want every kid to find something they love. That’s what this is about.”