A Night to Shine

We recently had a Q&A with Joe Bennett who is a part of the community wide even Night to Shine. This themed event is an important part of our community and Joe gave us the low-down on the evenning and why he and so many others are a part of it.

How did Night To Shine come about? How did it get started?
I first heard about a prom for individuals with special needs from Southland Christian Church in Lexington, Kentucky.  At the time, I was serving as the youth minister at College Heights UMC, where we had a number of folks with physical and/or mental challenges and wanted to do something for them and their families.  In 2013, a few of us from the church gathered together to begin planning a similar event for our community.  Southland Christian Church was very helpful to us in getting started and we are very grateful to them.  

What is Night to Shine?

Night to Shine is the best night of the year!  It is a themed event for individuals with intellectual disabilities held at the Pritchard Community Center.  We average 200 special guests, along with some of their family members and group home leaders, plus 200 volunteers.  We provide free hair and make up, a meal, a dance, games, prizes, and a lot of fun.  Thanks to our generous community, we are able to provide everything for free!  This year Night to Shine is on Saturday, May 11 from 6 PM-9 PM (doors open at 5:30 PM).

How long has this been an event in our community?

This event was started in 2013 and we are going on YEAR 7!  

What does this night look like? What does it entail?
First, guests are welcomed on a red carpet by a line of cheering greeters.  From there, guests are paired with a volunteer escort that will be their guide for the night.  Each guest gets their picture taken and receives a free photo at the end of the night.  Then we eat!  Next, we open up the games, which include Bingo, an annual favorite.  Guests fill the dance floor, win prizes, get their face-painted, or get a balloon animal.  

What is the theme of the event this year?

This year's theme is "Be Our Guest," a formal with a Disney twist.  

Why is it important?

This event is important because the guests and their families are important.  
How do individuals with special needs attend?Guests can register for the event at nighttoshine2019.eventbrite.com.  We also have registration on the night of for those that need it.   

How did you personally get involved?

I love this community and am so glad to be a small part of it.

What is the highlight of the evening for you?

Watching our guests walk the red carpet and smile while people cheer them on...not much better than that.
How can others get involved or volunteer? Is it open to the public?If people are interested in they can contact me at happyjoe@teamhcc.com.  At this point, we really only need volunteers that are willing to be greeters or escorts.

What should people know before they attend the event? 

Get ready for the best night of the year!