Operation Graduation will host the 26th annual Dolores Ski and Outdoor Gear Swap on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Dolores High School.
Consignment drop-off is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 5, from 3 to 8 p.m.
The Dolores Ski Club usually organizes the swap to support ski school and equipment rentals. This year, Operation Graduation will take over after the club was unable to host.
Proceeds will support Operation Graduation, which Staci Cost, the program’s treasurer, described as “a community-sponsored program that provides a safe, substance-free celebration for graduating seniors on commencement night.” The program launched in 1997, and nearly all seniors participate each year.
Operation Graduation offers seniors an evening of music, games, food and entertainment, along with prizes and “big-ticket items” donated by local businesses and partners to support graduates, whether they are entering college, trade school or the workforce.
“This program provides graduates with an eventful night to remember and a selection of practical prizes and gifts as a reward for their academic accomplishments and their commitment to a safe and sensible celebration,” Cost told The Journal. “Friends and families of Dolores students are committed to providing a fun-filled celebration that replaces the temptation to ‘go out and party.’”
Last year, Dolores seniors traveled to Bananas Fun Park in Grand Junction immediately after graduation, enjoying exclusive access to go-karts, minigolf, laser tag, bumper boats and arcade games, followed by a late-night pizza party.
Items accepted for the swap include skis, boots, snowboards, poles, helmets, clothing, skates, cross-country gear, backpacks and other outdoor equipment.
Questions may be directed to ogdoloresseniors@gmail.com.
