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Post-prom party in Preston County in need of donations, volunteers

KINGWOOD — Volunteers and donations are needed for the 13th Annual Preston Prevention Partnership After Prom Event.
The event will be from 10 p.m. April 27 to 6 a.m. April 28 at the Craig Civic Center, according to Preston County Family Resources Director Barb Thorn. That’s the same night as the Preston High prom.

“We plan to have food, activities and prize drawings throughout the night,” Thorn said. “Our goal is to provide a safe and fun event for high school students.” The event is made possible through donations from community agencies, businesses and individuals.

Thorn said the Preston Prevention Partnership was formed to increase awareness of substance abuse and decrease drug use in the county. Out of that grew the idea to have a prom night event with activities for high school students, whether they attend prom or not.
Many agencies work together under the umbrella of the partnership. One of those agencies is the Preston County Health Department.
“We basically keep the money for the partnership,” Preston Health Department Director V.J. Davis said. “We write out the checks and pay the bills.”

He said health department staff helps with planning and coordinating donations for the event.
“Most of our staff spends some time at the event, helping chaperone,” he said.

Both Thorn and Davis said volunteers are needed to assist with set up, serve and tear down. Thorn said interested individuals may also volunteer in two-hour intervals. Food and prizes can also be donated, as well as money.

“We know there is a widespread concern about the problem of substance abuse in our area. It affects us all,” Thorn said. “We hope you will be able to contribute items or a donation to assist us. We greatly appreciate any support you can give.”

To volunteer or donate to the event, contact Thorn at 304-329-1968 or Rita McNair at 304-329-0096.
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