Hosted by the Ashland Special Needs Ministry and the Tim Tebow Foundation on Feb. 13, the Night to Shine dance was a time to enjoy under the sea. Instead of chocolates and roses, the people of Ashland traded in their traditional Valentine’s celebrations to make a memorable night for those with special needs in the community.  

“The community is full of people who want to give and make this a night that is beautiful and fun for our friends,” said Executive Director of Ashland Special Needs Ministry Christina Teevan. 

In preparation for the event, volunteers helped decorate Ashland Christian School (ACS) into an under-the-sea oasis.  

The decor included a vast array of the “coral reefs” made of colorful pool noodles, imaginative octopi made from balloons and blue and silver streamers adorning the hallways that swayed as guests walked past.    

On the afternoon of prom, the doors of ACS welcomed the volunteers, also known as “buddies,” to get ready for the evening. Each buddy had a “friend”, or a person that is considered to have special needs, with whom they would spend the evening.   

Around 5:40 p.m., guests lined up beside the red carpet in preparation to cheer on all attendees.  

As friends went down the carpet, Mayor Matt Miller and Rep. Melanie Miller greeted each one and crowned them.  

“They make it a priority to take individual time with each friend,” said Teevan.   

Shortly after the crowning, each quest received a corsage or boutonniere.  

As they made their way to the dance room, attendees could make stops in a variety of rooms. Each room had its own distinctive purpose.  

For example, the princess room was the home to Disney Princesses Ariel and Cinderella for the evening. Attendees were able to dance, sing and talk with the princesses.  

“We have professional princesses that come every year,” Teevan said. “Our participants really look forward to seeing them because they remember each other. This year we have Ariel and Cinderella because those are two fan favorites.”  

While princesses were a popular attraction, some attendees took advantage of other areas like the game room. 

Inside there were a variety of board games including but not limited to connect four and checkers. There were also games that are more active like cornhole and pool.  

Further down the hallway for attendees that are prone to overstimulation, there was a sensory room with fidget toys like pop sockets and spots to sit like a ball pit; there was something to help everyone calm down.  

Speaking of quieter things, there was also a quiet dining room. Attendees who are not big on loud noises could get food and eat in the quiet dining area with their buddy.   

For guests who like to explore, there were limo-style party buses. Throughout the evening, attendees could get in line and take a ride down Main Street under the lights of the night.  

There was also a karaoke room full of lights as friends sang their hearts out. If an attendee wanted to sing, they just had to put their name on the list and go wait for their turn.  

While waiting, they could enjoy some light refreshments, take some photos at the photobooth, or have a seat and watch others sing.  

Throughout the night, there were many things happening all to make those with special needs feel like they shone throughout the night, and it was all thanks to the help of those who volunteered their time an energy to the cause.  

 “We are volunteer-based, and there is a huge team of people who help put this on and I can’t do it without them, said Teevan. “And I’m so thankful for them.”  

Planning is already underway for next year’s “Night to Shine,” and for those who are interested in helping make the unforgettable night happen check out the Ashland Special Needs Ministry’s website.