Several years ago people at Stillwater Church realized there was an untapped segment of their congregation that needed extra care and attention. Several church members who are therapists and educators, under the guidance of church member and Englewood resident Sue Hey, developed the Special Friends ministry, which ensures that all families feel welcomed, loved and supported by providing a safe and supportive environment for special needs children and their families. The trained team of volunteers provides opportunities for children to participate in age-appropriate activities in an inclusive atmosphere.
From that ministry sprouted the idea of hosting a prom at the church for all area teens and young adults with special needs. Last year was the first prom and it was a huge success, said prom chairman and speech therapist Heidi Williams of Clayton.
“The prom is a community event and it has been absolutely incredible to see the community reach out to this effort,” said Williams. “We’ve had a lot of monetary donations and so many volunteers have donated their talents. A lot of prayers are being answered.”
Enchanted Wonderland, this year’s prom theme, is Friday, Feb. 10. Prior to the big event, young ladies can have their hair and nails done at the church but need to book an appointment ahead of time. The stylists are volunteers from the church and community. For students who found the cost of prom clothing beyond their budget, the church provided a “formal attire shop” on Jan. 28 at which prom guests could browse the array of dresses, shoes and men’s suits and purchase at no cost. “Many of our dresses had never been worn or worn just once,” said Williams. “We had a bridal store donate brand new dresses.”
When guests arrive at the prom they will be greeted by a red carpet that is donated by Prime Time Party Rental. “And we have a young man with special needs who oversees rolling out the carpet, and it’s amazing how much fun he has,” said Williams.
Williams is convinced the volunteers end up having as much, if not more, at the prom than the kids: “Our volunteers get so much out of this. When you give of yourself, it makes your own problems seem so much smaller.”
DJ Willie, who rocked the dance floor last year, will be there again this year. “He’s amazing. He really has a gift for getting everyone up and dancing,” said Williams. “Last year I had a father tell me he never in a million years thought his daughter would dance, but she did and didn’t want to sit down.”
Last year about 30 people attended the prom. Williams says they’ve had over 60 reservations made for this year’s event.
From Glo Sticks to fruit trays and pizza from Rob’s Restaurant in Brookville to corsages and balloons from LJ’s Ballloonatics, local businesses have willingly stepped up with donations. “This is a big deal. Prom is kind of a milestone event for high school students, and the parents are so pleased. We do everything we can to ‘normalize’ the event,” said Williams. She said many students are in wheelchairs, on crutches or walkers and with a little help they are able to dance the night away just like any other kid.
The youth group at Stillwater Church volunteers the night of the prom. Williams said if last year’s prom is an indicator, this year’s event should be fabulous. “These kids have a blast.”
Contact this contributing writer at pgmcginnis45419@yahoo.com.
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