Friday, May 17, 2024

Gatesville delegation attend “Night to Shine” prom

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On Friday, February 9,  Crestview Church of Christ in Waco once again partnered with the Tim Tebow Foundation with help from Elite Therapy Group and HOCTIL (Heart of Central Texas Independent Living) to host Night to Shine — an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs and disabilities who are 14 and older.

Six athletes from Team Gatesville Special Olympics were in attendance.

Team Gatesville Head of Delegation, Heidi Clough, said, “Night to Shine is so much more than a dance. It is an amazing celebration of the unique abilities of each king and queen. In watching their joy, it is an uplifting experience for us all. Grounded in God’s love, Night to Shine prom can help change how culture embraces and includes people with special needs.”

Participating in the prom was Gatesville athlete Tristen Tidrick who said, “My favorite part of prom was spending time with my buddy, Chloe, and singing karaoke with my cousin, Staci. I look forward to prom each year.”

Every guest of Night to Shine entered this complimentary event on a red carpet complete with a warm welcome from a friendly crowd and paparazzi. Once inside, guests received the royal treatment, including hair and makeup stations, shoe shining stations, limousine rides, corsages and boutonnieres, a karaoke room, dinner, prom favors for each honored guest, a Respite Room for parents and caretakers and, of course, dancing.

Each guest received a crown or tiara because they are all kings and queens!

This event is held simultaneously around the world. Last February, 622 churches in 46 countries came together to celebrate 75,000+ honored guests in what has become a worldwide movement celebrating people with special needs and disabilities.