Community Corner

Community's Support Needed to Stage High School's Project Graduation

Harpoon Willy's donating percentage of diners' bills this weekend to Wall Alliance

A night out for dinner this weekend will go a long way toward helping the Wall High School Class of 2011 have a fun and safe graduation.

Harpoon Willy's, 2655 River Road, is participating in the latest fundraiser to aid the school's Project Graduation, an all-night alcohol- and drug-free celebration sponsored by the Wall Alliance for the Prevention of Alcohol and Drug Abuse.

All those who dine at Harpoon Willy's from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Saturday or Sunday can help the cause by simply downloading the flyer attached to this article. The restaurant will then donate 15 percent of diners' bills (excluding alcohol, tax and tip) to the Alliance to help fund the event, being held this year at the Atlantic Club.

Find out what's happening in Wallwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Once graduates get their diplomas on June 22, they'll head to the Atlantic Club for a "fun night with everyone," according to Kristin Meyler, coordinator of the Wall Alliance. Rather than head out to parties and be potentially tempted by drugs and alcohol, the students are afforded a safe environment with a myriad of fun activities the whole night.

Among the many events planned include a pie-eating contest, a scavenger hunt, volleyball and dodgeball, music, massages and "food coming out constantly," Meyler said. There's even a hypnotist scheduled for 3 a.m., which the Alliance coordinator expects to be "about the biggest hit of the night."

Find out what's happening in Wallwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Meyler, in her 11th year helping to coordinate Project Graduation, said the annual event not only removes dangerous temptations but helps to keep the graduates safe from others who may be less responsible.

"We're not only keeping them safe from themselves, but from others who might be out drinking and drugging."

But to do so, the volunteer Alliance must rely on the support of the community. The Atlantic Club does its part, as do area businesses, Meyler said.

"The Atlantic Club donates the entire building to us. They really take care of us," she said. "The businesses are amazing."

However, donations would still be much appreciated, as "almost everything is donated" to help stage an event Alliance chairwoman Mary Lynn Morris has said costs upwards of $10,000.

Meyler said a gift auction will be held at Project Graduation, and the Alliance still seeks prizes and gift cards. Additionally, soda and water is needed for the festivities. 

Of course, the Alliance would happily accept monetary donations, as well.

To find out how to help Project Graduation 2011, contact Meyler at kmeyler@townshipofwall.com.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here