Adult Prom Raises $40,000 for Crisis Center Foundation Services

The more than $40,000 raised at the Crisis Center Foundation Adult Prom will go to the nonprofit’s Building Fund, where it is meant to help create more physical space for walk-in and shelter services for survivors of domestic violence in Morgan County and the surrounding area. For an agency that already runs a 24-hour crisis hotline, emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, prevention and education across Morgan, Scott, Cass and Greene counties, extra room can mean more people getting help when they need it most.

The fourth annual prom drew more than 300 people to Hamilton’s in Jacksonville last month, turning a themed night out into a major source of support for the organization. Bradly Mechol was crowned king and Megan Alfano was crowned queen as local community leaders made up the court, giving the event the feel of a hometown celebration with a serious purpose behind it.

The turnout matters because domestic-violence services are only as strong as the space and staffing behind them. Crisis Center Foundation has operated from 325 9th Ave. in Jacksonville since 2002, and the agency’s work stretches well beyond one city block. Its services reach survivors across four counties, from the first call for help to emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy and prevention and education efforts. The Building Fund is aimed at expanding that capacity, which makes the prom’s total more than a night of fundraising. It is a direct investment in whether the organization can keep pace with need.

Held March 21 at 7 p.m. at Hamilton’s, 110 N. East St., the event also reflected how quickly the Adult Prom has become part of Jacksonville’s civic calendar. Light snacks, a cash bar and music by the Sushi Roll Band helped draw a crowd to the fourth annual event, which has developed into a dependable way for supporters to back a mission centered on a violence-free community. In a county where survivors often need immediate shelter and a private place to start over, the money raised last month will help keep doors open and create more room for the next person who walks in.