By CHRIS GREV

Another Project Graduation is just around the corner. On June 3, Austin High School seniors will graduate and thanks to the efforts of many volunteers and donations from local businesses, will have one memorable send off.

Project Graduation dates back to at least 1993 when a group of local parents wanted to offer all graduating seniors in Austin an opportunity to celebrate in a safe, alcohol and drug free environment.

It’s been many years, many different volunteers and many changes but the event continues to be one of the most anticipated of the year. And its purpose hasn’t change … giving our seniors a safe graduation celebration.

Beginning in January chairpersons begin meeting regularly to organize the various committees and recruit room chairs. Monthly meetings take place leading up to graduation with frenzy of set up and prep taking place the last days before the event.

The gyms, classrooms and even Knowlton Auditorium will be transformed into various rooms with numerous activities, games, food and fun for all attending. “It’s amazing what we can do with some curtains, poles, plywood and imagination,” said Annette Mueller, co-chair of Project Graduation 2011. To put on such a post-commencement party takes a lot of time, volunteers and money.

“We are reaching out to the community for donations of money and/or gift prizes for Project Graduation,” Mueller said. “We have a very generous community that has been incredibly supportive of Project Graduation all these years. We certainly could not do this without their help.”

The party begins immediately after AHS commencement and continues until 4 a.m.

“Project Graduation is a community event,” Mueller said. “Students from AHS, Pacelli and home-schooled graduates are all invited. We are always looking for more volunteers too. It really is a fun event, not just for the kids but for us volunteers as well.”

Students can get tickets for the event at AHS. The price of the ticket includes a fun-filled evening of games, food, beverages and entertainment. Each student registered by May 27 is guaranteed to receive a special gift. Early Registration Blitz concluded April 20 but registration continues April 25-May 27: $50. After May 27 and at the door: $60.

If you would like to be part of Project Graduation or make a donation, please contact Mueller at 433-5059.