(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — On Sunday, March 23 (and again on April 27), Soroptimist International of Simi Valley in partnership with the YMCA, hosted an event that transformed lives one outfit at a time. Known simply as the Prom Closet, the event offered more than 700 dresses, suits, ties, shoes, accessories, and makeup—all free to any high school student in need.
Held at the Simi Valley Family YMCA, this celebration of self-expression and support welcomed over 500 guests, including students from Simi Valley, the broader Ventura County region, and as far as the Malibu School District. Teens streamed through the doors, many of them with shy smiles that blossomed into excitement as they browsed through racks of prom-ready attire.
“This isn’t just about the clothes,” said event chair Terri Staszak, whose leadership was the heart of the initiative. “It’s about making sure every young person feels like they belong—like they matter. Everyone deserves to feel confident walking into their prom or graduation.”
And that message resonated. One student, who recently lost her home in a devastating fire, showed up with quiet courage and left with more than a gown—she left with a community that had her back.
Inside the YMCA, the atmosphere buzzed with energy and joy. Volunteers guided students through rows of donated items, offered fitting room assistance, and helped pair perfect accessories to match each look. Racks brimmed with every color and style imaginable, from flowing floor-length gowns to sharp suits with coordinating ties. Sizes ranged from petite to plus, ensuring that every teen—regardless of body type—found something that made them feel amazing.
Fox 11 News was on the scene to capture the magic. In the segment, photojournalist James Wolfe highlighted not only the incredible selection of attire, but also the heartfelt mission driving the event. “Honestly, I think it’s like a nice little act of love,” one parent shared. “As someone who is low income, it’s just really nice to have these donations come over. I think it’s great to give back to the community.”
The event was open to all teens—no school district affiliation required and no RSVP necessary. Still, many signed up to receive reminders and “add to calendar” links that made it easy to attend.
“It’s expensive to go to prom,” said another student. “This makes it possible for people like me to look and feel our best without worrying about the cost. And you can try things on instead of guessing what fits from a website.”
Every single item—whether a shimmering dress, polished dress shoes, or a silky tie—was donated with care. And with donations coming in until just days before the events, the organizers were “blown away by the outpouring of support,” according to Brie Severino of the YMCA. “This truly was a community effort.”
With the success of this year’s Prom Closet, organizers hope to continue the event annually and expand its reach, making it a new rite of passage for every Simi Valley teen looking to step into a milestone moment with confidence, style, and support.
For more information about the event or to support future efforts, community members are encouraged to contact Brie Severino at Southeast Ventura County YMCA.
