Night to Shine held at Grace Church
On Friday, Feb. 9, Grace Church hosted 280 of Wayne County’s citizens at Night to Shine, an event created by the Tim Tebow Foundation and hosted simultaneously across 55 countries and 622 churches.
It was the 10th year overall for the event and the eighth year in Wayne County in which guests age 14 and older with special needs have been honored with a prom experience centered on God’s love. Donned in their finest attire, from tailored suits to formal gowns, guests entered with cheering, pomp and circumstance as they made their way down the red carpet. After being celebrated, they were free to spend their evening dancing, singing and enjoying the company of 350 volunteers.
Limo rides, karaoke, carnival games, shoe shines, hair styling and makeup, photo booth pictures, professional photos, balloon animals, and a slew of characters, princesses and superheroes were included in the experience. The night concluded with a crowning ceremony where each guest was individually crowned king and queen to signify their value and worth. While these honored guests enjoyed the night, 204 parents and caregivers shared an evening pampered in the respite room down the hall.
The event saw the entire community come together. Area businesses donated their time, goods and services while local partners donated financially to support the many needs to make the night possible. IncludeAbility, Heidi’s Pharmacy, The Counseling Center of Wayne and Holmes County, Young Life Capernaum, Special Olympics Wayne County, and JADE Families spent their evening in the respite room to provide support and resources for parents and caregivers of special needs individuals.
The planning and preparation for next year’s Night to Shine is already in the thoughts of the Night to Shine leadership team. To volunteer or donate in 2025, visit www.nighttoshinewayneco.com.
