Submitted by Jamie Young
(June 13, 2026) — The Senior Class at Haddam-Killingworth High School is moving toward their graduation festivities on June 18, 2026. But a dedicated, evolving committee of Project Graduation volunteers has been working all year and, more recently, around the clock to keep this vital 34-year community tradition alive. The all-night celebration at the high school on the night of graduation offers a variety of activities, food, prizes, entertainment and beverages to keep them busy and safe. They make lasting memories and have the opportunity to just enjoy one another one last time. In the history of Project Graduation at HKHS, there have been zero graduation-night fatalities. The community’s goal this year is simple: keep that record at 35-0.
Because Project Graduation is entirely volunteer-run and receives no town or school district funding, it relies completely on the generosity of local businesses and residents to cover the cost of $135 per student. Every single dollar and in-kind gift donated directly funds and supports student food, entertainment, and raffle prizes. This year has been a particularly challenging one for the Project Graduation fundraising.
How can you support the graduates this year or next? Please consider making a tax-deductible financial donation via Venmo to @HK-ProjectGraduationor by mailing a check payable to “Project Graduation” to HKHS Project Graduation, 95 Little City Road, Higganum, CT 06441. Any funds not used to pay for the 2026 event will be held for next year’s event. As a registered 501(c)(3) organization, all donations are tax-deductible. Business donors are proudly featured on the organization’s website, social media pages, event signage, and school newsletters.
For 2026-2027, financial, merchandise and prize donations are always needed and can be donated by contacting hkprojectgraduation@gmail.com to coordinate drop-offs. Volunteers are always needed on the committee, for decorating, and for the event-night operations. Please contact us at the email above if you are interested in participating.
