Project Graduation seeks donations, volunteers
By Hub City Times staff
MARSHFIELD – As the Marshfield High School senior class of 2019 prepares to walk the stage, Project Graduation organizers are preparing for their annual adult-supervised, alcohol-free post-graduation party. With the June 2 graduation date drawing near, however, organizers are still in need of donations and volunteers.
With the community’s assistance, organizers have been able to continue a 32-year tradition in Marshfield, allowing graduates to celebrate their accomplishments in a safe environment.
“The kids have a lot of fun; they really enjoy it; and it also keeps them safe,” said Dave Lang, one of this year’s organizers.
“Project Graduation happens graduation day, at night. Graduation happens, then the kids all leave and we set up for Project Graduation. It is a lock-in event. We set up a lot of different things for the kids. They get there roughly around 9 p.m., and they start checking in. They are there pretty much until 5 to 5:30 in the morning. They are locked in, and they are not able to leave.”
The event dates back to 1987, when a Marshfield teacher called for an event to keep Marshfield graduates safe. Since that time, Marshfield parents – most notably Phil & Jill Hiller and Kim & Sue Vrana – have taken the lead on organizing the event. This year, Dave & Marian Lang serve as co-chairs for the event.
Dave said activities change from year to year. “There are a lot of different events that we do with the kids. We don’t open the pool anymore, because of liability reasons,” Lang said.
“They can play any kind of sports because, of course, we have a fieldhouse… We have a DJ in the smaller gym in the back, and he runs a big dance party back there. We have two giant Jengas that the kids can play. We have Baggo; they can do the wall climbing. We have horse racing – you are on chairs, and they roll dice.
“There are also video games; there are board games. We have dodge ball that goes on in the wrestling room upstairs above the locker rooms. We have Game Stop come in. They bring all kinds of gaming-type things.”
This year’s event also features an outdoor lounge with a fire for roasting marshmallows, along with the traditional food court.
“It really depends a lot on the local businesses who donate that food to us, as well as parents who donate food,” Kim Vrana said. “The kids are amazed that it is free.”
Organizers are still in need of monetary and prize donations. For more information, contact Dave or Marian at 715-591-0303.