Cinderella Society Gears Up For 4th Annual Prom Ensemble Event With Expanded Community Support

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — What began as a grassroots drive to help local students afford formalwear has grown into a thriving community tradition with a broader mission and deeper support.

The Cinderella Society, now a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing free formalwear for all, is preparing for its 4th Annual Prom Ensemble Event, scheduled March 14–15, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Tolerance Hall on the St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds.

Each year, students from across Southern Maryland who might otherwise skip prom due to cost have walked through the doors and walked out with a dress, tuxedo, shoes and accessories all at no cost. What sets this year apart is expanded collaboration and a powerful show of community investment.

For the first time, the Cinderella Society is joining forces with My Sister’s Closet, a newly launched Southern Maryland initiative that provides free professional attire and support resources for women in transition. The two organizations will share space at the March event, providing an inclusive environment where young people and adult women alike can find clothing resources and support.

Side by side, the two organizations will help people of all ages step forward with confidence by providing free clothing for milestone moments and new beginnings.

The Cinderella Society’s growth reflects the generosity of local supporters. In Nov. 2025, St. Mary’s County Elks Lodge #2092 made a significant donation of $17,712.74 to the organization from attending the 66th Annual Elks Charity Ball, bolstering its capacity to purchase and prepare formalwear, expand inventory and invest in storage and event logistics. The gift underscores a decade-long tradition of the Elks supporting community charities and youth-oriented programs.

“We’ll literally never be able to thank them enough for this life-changing amount of money!! No more falling racks!” said a board member for the nonprofit in a Facebook post.

Since its rebranding and formal establishment as a 501(c)(3), the Cinderella Society has also expanded its donation drop-off locations and volunteer ranks, encouraging the community to donate clean, new or gently used dresses, suits, shoes and accessories in all sizes. Drop boxes are available across St. Mary’s and Charles counties, with additional updates posted regularly on the organization’s social media pages.

Event organizers say they hope the March weekend will not only outfit hundreds of students but also celebrate the broader community support that has made the society’s work possible.

“Prom should be about memories, not budgets, and this event is open to anyone,” organizers told The BayNet. “No school ID is required.”

Volunteers Needed

Organizers are calling on the community to volunteer in the days leading up to and during the event, including assisting with setup, organizing formalwear, providing minor alterations, and helping with cleanup. Volunteers are needed March 10-15 at the St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds. Individuals and groups seeking service hours are encouraged to participate, and as a registered 501(c)(3), the organization can provide verification for volunteer time. Further details are available on their Facebook post.

For more information on donation locations, volunteering or event details, visit the Cinderella Society’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

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