This year's Duck Spree event took place on March 20th on the Lazy River at the Hub. Ducks competed for honor and glory in 2 heats with the top 20 ducks taking part in the final race to the finish.
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ABOUT GRAD SPREE
Since 1986, our post-graduation overnight event, Marion Chamber Foundation's Friends For Life Graduation Spree (known as Grad Spree), has been a cherished tradition, offering high school graduates a safe and substance-free way to celebrate this milestone in their lives. For over three decades, we've provided a memorable and enjoyable experience for students, ensuring that their graduation night is one they'll never forget—for all the right reasons.
A Safe and Substance-Free Celebration
At our post-graduation overnight event, safety is our top priority. We understand the temptations and pressures that can come with graduation night, which is why we offer a supportive environment where students can have fun and make memories without the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Our event provides a variety of activities and entertainment options to suit every interest and preference. From games and music to food and friendship, there's something for everyone to enjoy as they celebrate this momentous occasion.
As we celebrate another year of graduates, we invite you to join us in continuing the tradition of our post-graduation overnight event.
By choosing our substance-free celebration, you're not only prioritizing your own safety and well-being but also contributing to a positive and supportive community that values responsible decision-making and camaraderie.
Ensure your free event goodie bag by registering for the event by April 24th. After the 24th, gift bags will be available as supplies last.
This year's Grad Spree event will be after the Marion High School’s Graduation Ceremony on May 16th. Activities and entertainment is provided to each Marion High School graduate free-of-charge.
Exciting Activities: Our event is packed with exciting activities to keep you entertained all night long.
Delicious Food: Enjoy a variety of tasty snacks and refreshments throughout the night, including sandwiches, desserts, and more. - Provided by Chamber Members.
Prizes and Giveaways: Test your luck and win fantastic prizes in our raffles and competitions, with giveaways ranging from gift cards to electronics and beyond.
Unforgettable Memories: Most importantly, you'll create memories with your fellow graduates that will last a lifetime. Whether you're sharing laughs with friends, trying new activities, or simply enjoying each other's company, the post-graduation overnight event is sure to be a night to remember.
Every year, we want to create memories that our students will take them into the next chapter of their lives. Traditionally, our Friends For Life Graduation Spree event is approximately $12,000 with the average cost being about $125 per student. Marion Grad Spree would not be possible without the help of our Chamber and community members.
Volunteers ensure that our Grad Spree guests have an amazing experience. You can be involved in a variety of ways:
Committee Members help to plan the event. This group meets monthly from January to March and then every 2 weeks from April through May.
Event Volunteers
include venue volunteers and activity chaperones for Grad Spree. Our chaperones make this a memorable night for the seniors. We have various shifts covering the event from 9 pm to 3 am.
To sign up to volunteer, call the Chamber at 997-6311 or e-mail the Chamber at programs@marionillinois.com.
PLATINUM / ENTERTAINMENT SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
ADDITIONAL SPONSORSHIP
A Taste of Bev Catering and More
Pepsi MidAmerica
Jackson & Gray Company, Inc.
SouthernTrust Bank
The Marion Chamber of Commerce Foundation hosted the Marion 2023 Friends For Life Graduation Spree (Grad Spree) on May 18th, taking place after the Marion High School’s Graduation Ceremony.
This year's activities included:
Food & Snacks - Provided by Chamber Members.
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
ADDITIONAL SPONSORSHIP
Pepsi MidAmerica
Jackson & Gray Company, Inc.
RX for Pools
Concepte of Illinois - Duck Spree Sponsor
SouthernTrust Bank
AES Solar - Duck Spree Course Sponsor
The Pavilion - Duck Spree Participant
Banterra Bank - Duck Spree Participant
First Southern Bank - Duck Spree Participant
Men In White Painting - Duck Spree Participant
Legence Bank - Duck Spree Participant
visitSI - Duck Spree Participant
Zion United Church of Christ - Duck Spree Participant
Dominion
SouthernTrust Bank
Lone Oak Baptist Church
Palmer Abstract Co.
A Taste of Bev Catering and More - Duck Spree Participant
Hill Printing & Office Supply Company - Duck Spree Participant
Campbell Insurance Group LLC - Duck Spree Participant
The Hub - Duck Spree Participant
VIP Enterprises - Duck Spree Participant
The Marion Chamber of Commerce Foundation will be hosting the Marion 2022 Friends For Life Graduation Spree (Grad Spree) on May 12th, taking place after the Marion High School’s Graduation Ceremony.
This year's activities include:
Restaurant / Activities Fundraisers: Enjoy the best food and fun in Marion and help raise funds for this year's event. Check out the scheduled events below. Thank you to the following members for participating: The Creative Getaway, Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, Magnus Fear LLC & O'Charley's - more to come!
The Marion Chamber of Commerce Foundation was honored to host the Marion 2021 Friends For Life Graduation Spree (Grad Spree) on May 20th, taking place after the Marion High School’s Graduation Ceremony.
This year's event featured a Pre-Event Party hosted by Rent One Park and Pepsi MidAmerica. Afterwards, graduates traveled to the HUB for a night of great activities - including:
Gifts were dispersed to students during graduation filming in late May. The 2020 gift included: Cinch bag featuring the Grad Spree Logo, a T-shirt (designed by a MHS student), a gift card from a local chamber restaurant, and a note of congratulation from the committee. We would like thank the following businesses for taking part in this year's event: The Print Shop, Simple Solutions, 17th Street BBQ, Culver's, Dairy Queen, O'Charley's, La Galeria, and Walt's.
Attendees take part in art activities.
Hypnosis volunteers.
Climbing Wall
Brian Madrid, world class hypnotist.
2019 Attendees
Audience enjoys the hypnotist show.