Project Graduation to host Spring Fun Run on Sunday, March 15 at Torres Park as fundraiser for its annual alcohol-free party for Chalmette High seniors after graduation

There’s the pomp and circumstance that go with a high school graduation. But there is also the yearning of graduates to celebrate, and maybe too hard, by drinking or doing drugs and driving somewhere, risking their lives and others on the road.

That’s why the St. Bernard Coalition for Project Graduation hosts an alcohol-free nightlong party at the Sports Hall of Fame building in Val Riess Park for Chalmette High seniors directly after their graduation, which is Thursday, May 14. This will be the 22nd year for such a celebration.

And on Sunday, March 15 at Torres Park in Chalmette, Project Graduation is holding the Spring Fun Run as its only fundraiser for the party and also to make the community aware it needs volunteers and support to make the 22nd year possible.

The walk/run will take place at 9 a.m. and registration beforehand is $10 for adults and $5 for students. A special attraction following the run is a tug-o-war challenge between St. Bernard’s finest – the Sheriff’s Office vs. the Fire Department.

“We strive to host an exciting drug-free and alcohol-free event for our graduates on their big night,’’ project Graduation officials said. “This is their last chance to come together as the Class of 2015 and just be kids with games, laughs, music, food, and prizes. These graduates work hard to receive their diploma. They deserve an exciting carefree night.’’

Along with games and activities, there will be a raffle of more than gifts. As in the past, all the great prizes throughout the evening celebration will be made possible through donations from generous people.

Project Graduation is funded entirely through donations and fundraising activities and welcome cash donations as well as checks, gift certificates and merchandise. All donations are tax deductible. “We hope you will consider supporting our efforts.”

The St. Bernard Coalition for Project Graduation is an all volunteer, non-profit organization chartered by the state of Louisiana and recognized as a (501) C 3, group by the Internal Revenue Service.

If you want to schedule a pick-up of a donation, would like to volunteer or if you have any other questions about Project Graduation, please call Brenda Simpson, chairperson; at (504) 682-0753 or Paula St. Angelo at (504) 400-9298.

For your convenience, checks and gift certificates may be mailed to:
Project Graduation.
P.O. Box 2251,
Chalmette, La., 70044.

Checks should be payable to Project Graduation.
Sheriff James Pohlmann said he supports Project Graduation and the effort it makes to procide an alcohol-free and drug-free party for graduating seniors. The Sheriff’s Office has a presence at the party and some deputies serve as volunteers.

The sheriff said he encourages seniors to look for safe ways to have their fun and create good memories of their final days in high school and parents should make clear to them they don’t want their children drinking alcohol and driving.

“Sadly, alcohol consumption leading to car crashes are one of the main causes of death and injury among teenagers,’’ Sheriff Pohlmann said.

“We all want you to have fun,’’ the sheriff said.“ But don’t let a mistake you make while celebrating your graduation cause you to regret it for the rest of your life.’’
During prom and graduation season in April, May and June, one-third of the alcohol-related accidents involving teens each year occur during those three months, the sheriff said.