05/31/2026
💙✨ We thought we were helping students find outfits for grad. What we witnessed was something much bigger. ✨💙
As the final dresses are returned to their racks, the last suit jackets are hung up, and we begin counting down the final days before graduation events, the organizing committee of the 2026 LVR Grad Closet would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make this year's events such a remarkable success.
This year marked the relaunch of the initiative as the LVR Grad Closet, building on the legacy of Cinderella's Closet while continuing the tradition of helping West Kootenay students celebrate graduation with confidence and pride.
What unfolded over the past several months was about far more than dresses, suits, shoes, and accessories. We witnessed moments of genuine connection, kindness, and community that will stay with us for years to come. From two grads who first met at the Grad Closet and discovered a special connection, to the touching note left with a dress by a previous grad for the young woman who would one day choose it, the Grad Closet became a place where memories were made, confidence was built, and lives were quietly touched.
We would like to sincerely thank:
💙 L.V. Rogers Secondary School teachers, counsellors, and administration for helping spread the word
💙 South Nelson Elementary School and staff for generously hosting our open houses
💙 The high school principals and counsellors throughout the West Kootenays for sharing information with their students and families
💙 The many Facebook group administrators in the West Kootenays who helped us reach our communities
💙 Baker Street Menswear for accepting donations and being such enthusiastic supporters
💙 SHARE Nelson for helping keep our racks stocked with wonderful options for students
💙 Positive Apparel Thrift Store for providing a $300 credit toward formal grad attire for the LVR Grad Closet
💙 Popov Leather for donating your beautiful handcrafted leather belts for men
💙 Speedpro Signs Nelson, Clulos Developments, and Glacier View Glass for donating the banner sign for the entry-way to the Grad Closet
💙 Seamstresses Alice, Shelley, and Ivy, whose sewing talents helped grads feel comfortable, confident, and perfectly fitted for their special day
💙 Wildroot flowers plants coffee for the beautiful bouquet of flowers that greeted students at the entrance and made the Grad Closet feel even more welcoming
💙 Mane Stop Hair Boutique, Merchant Barber, Shoppers Drug Mart (Lakeside Drive in Nelson), Skin Bliss Medi Spa & Wellness Center, and Aura Spa & Salon for your generous prize donations that helped make graduation preparations even more special
And finally...
💙 To the many parent volunteers who gave their time, energy, and enthusiasm.
💙 To the community members who donated so generously to help build an incredible selection of formal wear, shoes, and accessories.
💙 To the students who shared the word with friends, attended the open houses, and embraced the spirit of the Grad Closet.
Thank you.
As the parents of the Class of 2026 pass the torch to the parents of the Class of 2027, we do so knowing that this tradition remains in caring hands.
Together, you have helped create more than a Grad Closet. You have created a community tradition built on generosity, dignity, belonging, and celebration.
Thank you for making the 2026 LVR Grad Closet such a memorable chapter in the lives of so many students and families.
💙 The 2026 LVR Grad Closet Organizing Committee
