A world-wide prom. What a crazy idea. Just a few weeks ago, over 200 churches in 48 states and 7 countries made this a reality. Night to Shine, a prom night for people ages 16 and older with intellectual and developmental disabilities organized by the Tim Tebow Foundation, took place on February 12. In St. Louis, it was put on at Kirk of the Hills and with the help of Promise Christian Academy.

Before the prom officially started, girls could come early to have their hair and makeup done. A few WCA students helped with the curling, straightening, and styling.

“It was so cool to see the joy of the girls and their parents and how the simple act of getting their hair curled made their day, despite the fact that many of them have a lot of really difficult days,” said Alyssa Freiner, senior.

The night included a red-carpet entrance, dinner, limo rides, a photo booth, balloon artists, a karaoke machine, a candy bar, and an endless amount of dancing.

“My favorite part of the night was was that I got to dance with a young man that I babysit for. It was so exciting seeing him have one of the best nights of his life,” said Hannah Heintz, senior.

WCA volunteers witnessed the incomparable joy of this prom.

“The most enjoyable part was when a few police officers started dancing with the guests,” said Andrew Eichelberger, senior.

“When Tim Tebow came on the screen [for a video message to all the guests], one of the girls started fangirling. She was full of joy and amazement that Tim sent a video to her,” said Avery Drury, senior.

At the end of the night, each guest was crowned a king and queen.

“Night to Shine is a night to celebrate the people, not the condition. It is a night where everyone gives them the attention and dignity they deserve,” said Drury.

This night will not soon be forgotten.

“It is a God-centered event which celebrates a community that seems imperfect according to the world, but we are able to share with them that they are perfect in The Lord’s eyes…We hope each guest walked away feeling celebrated and perfect,” said Casey Davis, an event planner for Night to Shine.