Night To Shine Stands Out in Third Year

NORFOLK — Everybody needs their own special night. The hundreds of guests at Norfolk’s Night to Shine had theirs on Friday night. The event is a prom for people with special needs and is part of the national Tim Tebow Foundation. Local Director Julie Austin says it’s rewarding to be a part of it. “When they come down the red carpet it’s so much fun to watching them get pictures taken and being yelled their names,” Austin said. “Their eyes just light up.” The event held at Harvest Church is in its third year in town and its fourth nationally. It features a red carpet walk, dinner, karaoke, dancing, makeovers, a photo booth and limo rides. Chaperone Michelle Berglund says there might be one activity that’s enjoyed the most. “The one-on-one attention probably,” Berglund said. “And dancing, everybody loves dancing.” Austin and her team fundraise throughout the year for the event in addition to getting help from the Tebow Foundation. She says over 220 volunteers worked the event on Friday. While traditional prom can bring on nerves for some, that’s not the case at Night to Shine. “They do not judge you,” Austin said. “They just come in and have a great time and that’s the best part of it.”
Share: