The Twirl Foundation will formally open its doors in its new location at 211 N. Tower Ave. in Centralia with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Centralia-Chehalis Chamber of Commerce at noon on Friday, Sept. 13.
The opening comes just in time for upcoming school activities such as prom, tolo, homecoming and other dances.
The Twirl Foundation has been giving away formal dresses and men’s formal attire for more than a decade to high school-age students who otherwise wouldn’t be able to participate.
Holly Ryan, previously Holly Phelps, owner of The Shady Lady, started the Twirl Foundation 11 years ago to serve high school students in need and give them an opportunity to build their self-esteem and outlook on life.
She dedicated a special section of her shop, The Shady Lady — that primarily sells antique and resale items — just for this purpose.
In 2023, she established the Twirl Foundation as a non-profit organization and recently moved it to a separate location, which provides a boutique-style store setting to showcase gently used prom dresses, gowns and formal wear along with bow ties, shoes and accessories.
The Twirl Foundation welcomes every high schooler of any walk of life.
The move into the new building allows for safer changing areas and wheelchair accessibility, Ryan said.
“We’re guarding the fact that memories are being made here. This is a safe space where everyone can be comfortable, feel good and be accommodated,” Ryan said.
The Twirl Foundation being in its own space also provides privacy and normalcy for young people going through difficult situations.
“Kids can come in and shop like in a regular clothing boutique,” Ryan said previously. “There is a lot of vulnerability in asking for help. No one chooses where they’re born or where they come from, and my heart is with them.”
Students can choose one outfit for free, including accessories.
Store hours are noon to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and also by appointment as need arises. The store is closed Oct. 25 through the end of January but reopens for the rest of the school year starting Feb. 1.
During the summer, the Twirl Foundation hosts pop-up stores to raise funds to keep the boutique open. Proceeds from The Shady Lady are also instrumental in keeping Twirl open, along with cash donations, Ryan said. Donations of dresses and formal wear, however, are the heart and soul of their operation.
Ryan is always welcoming dresses, suits and dress shirts that are gently used with no stains or damage. Cash donations go toward everything from socks and hosiery — which they only buy new — to paying the light bill and other facility expenses.
Donations can be dropped off at The Shady Lady, located directly across the street from the Twirl. Ryan can be reached at 360-736-4333.
