Riedel Foundation grant helps pay for Hannibal Project Graduation party for seniors

HANNIBAL, Mo. — The Riedel Foundation has awarded a $1,000 grant to help put on Project Graduation for the Hannibal High School Class of 2025.

The parents of the senior class are the hosts of the party each year. For each of her children, Anna Lemon has served as a chairperson of the event. With her fourth child graduating, this is her final year to help the seniors celebrate in style.

“It’s bittersweet,” Lemon said in a press release. “Project Graduation takes many volunteer hours for parents and students, but it’s worth all the effort. It gives the students one last night to celebrate with their friends, and most importantly to keep each student safe and substance free.”

Kori Locke is a co-chair with Lemon, her third time in that role.

“We have a lot of parents who help fundraise all year and work the event with each of their kids when they become seniors,” Lemon said. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s also a lot of fun.”

The Riedel Foundation is a long-time supporter of Project Graduation.

“Graduation is a milestone that should be celebrated, but we want them to celebrate safely,” Riedel trustee April Baldwin said. “The parents and kids involved raise thousands of dollars on their own. This is just a small way we can show our support.”

The party starts at 10 p.m. on graduation night, May 22 at Tanyard Gardens in downtown Hannibal. Some of the activities are axe throwing, karaoke, a cornhole tournament and a hypnotist show. Food and prizes are offered as an incentive for the seniors to attend. Everyone is required to stay until the party ends at 5 a.m. on May 23.