High school seniors may apply for 2008-2009 Henry Mayo Guild Silver Rose Debutante Program.

Open to students with a 2.5 GPA or higher, the debutante season offers young ladies the opportunity to acquire vital social, civic and professional skills, according to Guild president Catherine Montoya.

"The Silver Rose debutantes learn traditions such as etiquette, proper dress codes and resume writing," Montoya said. "They also receive support during their college application process and develop lifelong friendships and memories."

Established in 1985, participation in the Silver Rose Debutante program requires 50 hours of community service, including planning and attending hospital fundraisers, as well as a season of exciting events, starting with a presentation tea in October and ending with a grand ball in March.

Registration costs for the program are $1,500 for the year and debutantes are also required to sell a table of 10 seats at the grand ball. Funds raised from the debutante program benefit laboratory services at Henry Mayo.

"This is a fantastic way for these young ladies to meet like-minded friends, become more self-confident and have a lot of fun," Montoya said. "The debutante season really adds enrichment to their lives, and to the lives of their families, while benefiting their local hospital and the patients it serves."

Applications for the 2008-2009 Henry Mayo Guild Silver Rose Debutante program are due by Aug. 29. A junior debutante program is also available.

For more information or to request an application, please contact the Henry Mayo Foundation office at 661-253-8082 or visit www.henrymayo.com.