Girls learn tips for having safe, responsible prom through Arrowhead United Way

Girls from throughout the Inland-area are gearing up for a responsible prom season thanks to Arrowhead United Way.

More than two dozen girls recently attended the group’s third annual Prom Promises event, a one-day workshop offering juniors and seniors everything from a free prom dress, to proper etiquette and learning ways to stay financially stable, all resources that will last a lifetime, said Gretchen Strutzenberg, program manager for Arrowhead United Way.

‘It’s more than just an opportunity to receive a free dress, it’s an empowerment workshop that encompass education, health and finances,” she said. “It’s an empowerment event that teaches girls that prom night isn’t their last chance for romance. They have goals and aspirations ahead of them and we try to remind them to make good choices.”

Additionally, the girls learned self-defense techniques taught by San Bernardino police Ofc. Jessica Segovia and also were offered make-up tutorials from Macy’s Impulse Cosmetics make-up artists. Macy’s at Inland Center Mall donated swag bags filled with cosmetics and dress donations from community members made it possible for each girl to select a prom dress.

Prom Promises is an annual program made possible through Arrowhead United Way Women’s Leadership Council.