Plainfield Native Helps Students Shine with “Say Yes to the Prom Dress” Initiative

PLAINFIELD, NJ — Plainfield native Renee Sterling Washington has long demonstrated a gift for leadership and a passion for service. A natural organizer from a young age, she served as class vice president for four consecutive years in high school and has consistently sought ways to uplift those around her.In 2016, through a connection with her high school, Washington learned that a young woman was struggling to prepare for prom. Moved by the situation, she stepped in to ensure the student had everything she needed for a memorable night—an act of kindness that would spark a much larger movement.“I think being an only child made me want to be helpful and to be around others,” Washington said. “I was raised by a single mother, and although I have siblings, they didn’t live with me. Later, I became a single mother myself, so I understand the struggle. I wanted to bless one young girl with a beautiful prom experience.”What began as a small effort to support a few students has since evolved into a thriving community initiative known as “Say Yes to the Prom Dress.” With the help of dedicated volunteers and supporters, the program now provides hundreds of students with formalwear each year—including elegant dresses, many of them new or custom-made, as well as shoes, accessories, makeup, and even suits for young men.Coordinating such an effort requires significant planning and collaboration. Donations must be collected, sorted, and stored, while accessible drop-off locations and welcoming venues are secured so students can comfortably select their outfits.Washington noted that this year brought unique challenges, particularly in finding donated space to host the events. However, Plainfield Councilwoman Julienne Cherry saw a social media post about the need and stepped in to assist.“I thought this was a wonderful idea and wanted to help out,” Cherry said. “I felt we could all work together to make this a memorable experience.”Cherry helped secure a venue and enlisted the support of her sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., whose members generously contributed dresses, shoes, accessories, and other essential items.Thanks to these collective efforts, two successful events were held this season, giving local students the opportunity to prepare for prom with confidence and style. The events took place on April 11 and May 1 at the Plainfield Performing Arts Center.Community businesses also played a key role. Larue Lux Hair Salon and Boutique on East Second Street served as a drop-off location for donations. Owner Dominique Larue has supported the initiative since its early days, even providing complimentary hairstyling services to participants when the program first launched. Her mother, Stacey Garnes, who assisted during the events, expressed appreciation for the strong community response.Through dedication, collaboration, and a shared commitment to giving back, “Say Yes to the Prom Dress” continues to make prom dreams a reality for students across Plainfield and beyond.Planning is already underway for next year’s initiative. Washington encourages anyone interested in donating dresses or contributing to the effort to reach out via her cell phone at 484.597.1512.“We’re thankful for the community support in whatever way people have helped—whether by donating dresses and supplies or spreading the word,” she said. “It’s grown beyond Plainfield, and that makes me proud. You think the need is just in one town, but young people from other areas need help too. We’re grateful that we can be there for them.”