The Cinderella Project of the Shenandoah Valley is a Harrisonburg, Virginia 501(c)(3) that has given free formal attire to low-income teens for prom, homecoming, and quinceañera for more than 20 years. It operates a seasonal boutique inside the Valley Mall, open on several Saturdays from March through early May, where students select gowns, shoes, and accessories at no cost. Founded by Rhonda Howdyshell, the project reports serving roughly 2,000 students with more than $2 million in donated formalwear. Donations are collected ahead of and during the spring boutique season. Visit valleycinderellaproject.org for boutique dates and donation drop-off details.
Mar-May (when students shop; donations are often accepted year round)
Organization type
501(c)(3) nonprofit
Frequently asked questions
When does The Cinderella Project of the Shenandoah Valley accept donations?
Mar-May is when The Cinderella Project of the Shenandoah Valley runs its giveaway, meaning the window when students shop for a dress, not necessarily a donation deadline. Formalwear programs commonly accept donations year round even though they distribute in a narrow spring window, and the most useful time to donate is right after prom, when dresses are current and in good condition. Confirm intake timing with the program before you drive over.
Can I mail costumes to The Cinderella Project of the Shenandoah Valley?
No. The Cinderella Project of the Shenandoah Valley collects collection event or drop-off and serves Shenandoah Valley, VA. If you are outside that area, look for a program closer to you, or use one of the 7 programs in this directory that accept mail-in donations from anywhere.
Is The Cinderella Project of the Shenandoah Valley a registered nonprofit?
The Cinderella Project of the Shenandoah Valley is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Donations to registered charities are generally tax deductible if you itemize, and the organization can issue a receipt. Ask them directly for their EIN and a written acknowledgement if you plan to claim the donation on your taxes.
How was this listing verified?
This listing is marked Verified Org and was last reviewed on June 29, 2026. That means we confirmed the organization exists and operates, using public records and its own published material, but we have not re-confirmed this season with them directly. Programs change hours, addresses, and intake windows without notice, so check their own site before you travel or ship.