For many high school girls, prom represents more than just a formal dance — it’s a celebration of identity, growth and self-worth. Yet for students with limited financial resources, the cost of dresses, glam and accessories can put that rite of passage out of reach.
This spring, Be The Change MN partnered with Macy’s Mall of America to host a prom empowerment event, providing free dresses, makeup, and styling services to dozens of Twin Cities teens. The collaboration aimed to ensure no girl would miss out on this milestone due to financial barriers.
“It felt really great,” said Atreyu Rogers, a counter manager at Macy’s. “I grew up in a really impoverished neighborhood in California, and I saw a bunch of girls who struggled to do anything for prom. So the fact that at my job I can help girls in need and empower them — that’s all I could ever ask to do.”
Students were nominated by school staff or mentors and brought to Macy’s to shop for dresses, receive professional makeup services, and celebrate with peers. For some, like Courtney Stately, a senior at Longfellow Alternative High School, the opportunity made prom possible in a way she hadn’t expected.
“I’d probably be wearing an old prom dress I had,” said White, who is also a young mother. “But here, I got to choose whatever dress I wanted — something I was comfortable in — and wear it without it being an issue. I got to be me for once.”
Others found the experience to be just as transformative. Gabrielle Smith, a senior at North Community High School, said the event helped her overcome personal insecurities and express herself more freely.
“I don’t usually wear dresses or anything that shows skin,” Smith said. “Today helped me stop criticizing myself. I told myself, ‘I need to wear this and go out here and just be me.’”
The impact extended beyond self-image. Ari Henley, a junior at Washburn High School, expressed how the event helped alleviate the stress of prom preparations — especially the financial burden.
“Coming up with the money would’ve been difficult,” she said. “This is the first time I didn’t have to do things last minute. I’m just very grateful.”
For Jordan Dawson, a senior at Southwest High School and a cheerleader, dancer, and student leader, the event symbolized something larger — a gesture of community care and validation.
“The world is getting so expensive, and a lot of people can’t afford as much as we should be able to,” Dawson said. “This gave girls the freedom to feel confident in a dress and not worry about their pockets. It’s a great experience, especially at this important season in our lives.”
Founded by John Baker, Be The Change MN is a youth-focused nonprofit that supports students of color through culturally affirming and opportunity-driven programming. The prom partnership with Macy’s reflects a shared commitment to equity, dignity and celebration.