RED-CARPET TREATMENT
Event gives people with special needs a first-class prom
Some residents from Texarkana and the surrounding area had their chance to shine Friday night at the Texarkana, Ark., Convention Center.
“Night to Shine” is a worldwide event sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation that gives special-needs teens and adults an opportunity for a first-class prom. According to the Tim Tebow Foundation, this year there are about 540 “Night to Shine” proms in 16 countries that serve 90,000 special-needs guests, with the help of more than 175,000 volunteers.
Tebow is a former NFL quarterback and current professional base- ball outfielder in the New York Mets organization.
The prom is always held the Friday before Valentine’s Day.
Those attending from Texarkana came from schools and group homes all over the four state area. Several local pastors worked together to bring the national event to Texarkana, said Brittany Rogers, program director for Runnin’ WJ Ranch.
Everyone attending the prom received flowers, a corsage or boutonniere and walked the red carpet to enter the dance.
“They get to walk down the red carpet with everyone cheering them on,” Rogers said.
There was also music, dancing, refreshments and photo booths. Outside, there were games and horse-drawn carriage rides.
“Tim Tebow just wants them to have the entire prom experience. Many of them have never been to a prom before,” Rogers said.
David Bledsoe and Heather Holler, both of Texarkana, attended the prom together. They danced for a bit and then decided to play games outside.
Chauncey Hooks, who attends Opportunities, Inc., attended the prom with his sister Chauzney Hooks.
The siblings laughed together and Chauncey danced in his wheelchair.
“He likes the music and we’re having a good time,” Chauzney said.