Giving the Glam Brochure

the Glam Giving

providing opportunities and confidence

Giving the Glam is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Massachusetts. It was created and established in 2014 by philanthropist Maristela Rapo and her daughter Alexis Rapo.

We work with young men and women who all come from different backgrounds and are each being faced with unique challenges. Giving the Glam comes into their lives and helps guide and motivate them to overcome their challenges by building their self-esteem and by acquiring newfound confidence to help them create a viable plan for their own future.

Our organization helps fi nancially challenged teens enjoy their high school prom experience. Each participant is provided with everything they will need to enjoy the prom in style – gowns, tuxedos, accessories, hair and makeup, professional photos, a video and car service to the venue.

But in the end, it’s not so much about the clothes or hair and makeup as it is about the rite of passage. From the young person’s point of view, it’s the opportunity and experience of a lifetime.

Students are selected in coordination with Massachusetts Student Grant Programs including the Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunity (METCO), the Boston Police Department’s District B-3 Community Service Officers, and the students' school counselors.

My past has given me the gift of giving.

-Maristela Rapo

Our Mission & Vision

Giving the Glam provides an incredible prom experience for underserved urban and suburban high school seniors. We cover the cost of all attire and accessories for students who couldn’t otherwise afford to participate in their prom. Students are given an opportunity to attend their event in style, while we make a large impact on their self-esteem and confidence.

The Need

Financial constraints put unnecessary burdens on students and serve to alienate them from the rest of their student body at a time when they most need community. Giving the Glam attempts to fi ll this need by giving everyone the opportunity to enjoy a high school prom, regardless of fi nancial circumstances. By developing their selfconfidence, we prepare these young people for the next chapter in their lives.

The Impact

Giving the Glam is able to help fi nancially challenged students feel included in their high school communities. Far too often these individuals are left out of many experiences due to no fault of their own and for them to fi nally experience this inclusion is an amazing thing to witness. Giving the Glam creates an experience that they will never forget.

Our Goals The Process

While prom season doesn’t come around until May, the Giving the Glam process starts early in January. First, the team helps each candidate choose their tuxedo or dress. The next step is fitting and by the middle of March, we have completed the fittings. During March and April, our team starts choosing accessories to make sure that all candidates are dressed their very best. As May and June come around, the big day fi nally arrives. The entire Giving the Glam team comes together for makeup, hair, manicures and to give the outfits the fi nal touch. Prom is an unforgettable milestone for these students and Giving the Glam gives them the opportunity to attend the prom, make lifelong memories, and build confidence.

Provide new experiences

Participate in school activities

Learn to set personal goals

Engage with the community

Build confidence and self-esteem

Spark inner joy

THE BREAKDOWN

*Prices shown have been provided by our vendors. This is their regular pricing. Car, Photographer and Videographer prices are split per person of the total fees for groups of 8; the

in a typical stretch limosine.

The average prom experience can cost thousands, putting it out of reach for many deserving students. At Giving the Glam, we believe every student deserves a night to shine, regardless of their background.

That's why we provide dream-worthy prom experiences for a fraction of the price: $436 for boys and $714 for girls, compared to national averages of $1290 and $1815. We don't compromise on quality. Our team of expert professionals ensures every student receives a personalized experience.

At Giving the Glam, we believe expertise matters. Our participants entrust us with their personal style, and we take that responsibility seriously. That's why we invest in building a team of highly skilled hairstylists and makeup artists with 6-25 years of experience. They possess the in-depth knowledge and mastery to work with every hair texture and skin type, ensuring flawless, personalized results for every participant. Our professionals are passionate about their craft, continuously honing their skills and staying ahead of the trends. Their dedication ensures consistent quality and an elevated experience for each and every student.

Who We've Helped Over the Years

842 Students

Participants with Intellectual Needs

133

Hassan

I am so blessed to know Maristela. She cares about others. I had the best experience of my life being one of the pupils who got selected for Giving the Glam. I am thankful for everything you did for me and I will always keep you in my mind.

ADVISORY BOARD

Monique M. Veale, Director of Outreach

Cynthia Brewington, Board Member

Christiana Brown, Board Member

Raquel Fauza, Board Member

Erin Logan, Board Member

Dede Long, Board Member

Andrea K. Yanoff, Board Member

Diane I really struggled as a person in my confidence of how I looked and feel about myself but everything you put me through I never felt so good about myself and proud, I never felt so good and loved about my body.