Local mom Taxie Lambert wants to be sure that financial hardship doesn't keep local students from going to prom. So in 2021, she started Project Formal. 

Project Formal is an initiative to collect and distribute new or gently used and recently made formal attire for students living in or around Northwest Florida area.  According to Taxie, "Every student should have an opportunity to attend a high school formal occasion, and this is why Project Formal exists.  Lack of appropriate attire due to household hardships, trauma, or challenges shouldn't keep students from missing these types of memorable events during their high school years."

Taxie has first-hand experience with children and trauma. She lost her daughter, Desirea Sierra, to an act of domestic violence by her child's father in April of 2000. Desi's last formal event was her fifth-grade graduation, and her mom still remembers shopping for that special dress. She thinks of the events that her daughter never got to enjoy, and that prompted her to act so that other kids won't have to miss these moments just because they couldn't afford to get ready for prom. "For those students that are here, that have the chance to do that, I'm doing this in Desi's memory." 

The community has come behind Taxie and her moving story and evident passion. Many local businesses, including Stroll Nature Trail, have become Community Advocates, helping to get the word out. One local family has ten foster daughters; they are being helped by Project Formal. Other businesses have offered to collect dresses, help with hair and makeup for the participants, help with alterations, and otherwise come alongside this project.

If you or your business would like to help support Project Formal, please visit www.projectformal.com. 

Advisory Committee

Dedicated and engaged leaders to help brainstorm, secure sponsors and items needed, make decisions, and lead the efforts.

 

Northwest Florida Schools, Community and Organization Liaisons

Principals, Guidance Counselors, Social Workers, Church Leaders, and other related roles to connect us with students in need. 

 

Community Advocates

To get the word out on social media and with friends, businesses, associates and fellow parents about our dress and accessory drives.

Community Sponsors (Including dry cleaning, photography, restaurants, floral, and formal wear)

Donated funds are used for ensuring students are equipped to attend formal events at schools.  From tux rentals to formal wear when size isn't available. Donations are used for gift cards for dinner, floral bouquets/boutonniere gift cards/vouchers, and photography. 

Personal Stylist

Work one-on-one with our recipients to help them choose gowns at Trunk Shows and give the student all the good feels about their special day.  From selecting shoes and jewelry, if available, a personal stylist will ensure the student's attire is perfect. 

Inventory Assistants

Assisting with the intake of new or gently used formal wear.  Weekly visits to drop off sights to pick up dresses and coordinate delivery to Project Formal's venue.  Inventory dresses to ensure needs (cleaning, repair) for the dress before adding to Project Formal's Inventory. 

Makeup Consultant

Consult with students during the Trunk Show giving them pointers, and techniques on how to wear makeup and choose the right lipstick color.  Consultants are encouraged to bring samples or donated products to the event. Consultants are encouraged to provide vouchers for students to go to their salons for their big day reveal. 

Hair Stylist Consultant

Consult with students during the Trunk Show giving them pointers and techniques on how to wear their hair for their big night. Consultants are encouraged to bring needed supplies for demonstrations. Consultants are encouraged to provide vouchers for students to go to their salon for their big day reveal.

 

Hospitality & Welcome

There are a few tasks under the umbrella of this job. This position is located in the waiting rooms - keeping refreshments replenished and fellowshipping with recipients and their families.

Alterations Consultant

Ensuring the dress fits the student perfectly.  You can bring your sewing machine on the day of the Trunk Show.  Other alternatives are to consult with the student during the trunk show and alter the gown at your leisure before the student's big day.  

Photography

This position is for professional photographers to document the Project Formal Experience through a photojournalistic lens. Please provide your own camera and equipment. Backdrops for portrait photography are not needed.  Photos will be given to Project Formal in digital format, no printing is required.