NEWBERG, Ore. — Northwest Christian Church lit up Friday, Sept. 19, with music, laughter, and celebration as guests with special needs enjoyed a prom-style event featuring dancing, food, karaoke, and fellowship.
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The Shine Prom drew 190 honored guests and more than 250 volunteers.
The event is part of a national movement sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation, a Florida-based faith nonprofit. Each year, churches across the country host local Shine celebrations.
Debbie Groat, executive associate and communications director at Northwest Christian Church, said the Newberg church has hosted Shine for 10 years.
“Each guest is escorted down the red carpet, where people are clapping and cheering. There is dinner, dancing, karaoke, limo rides, and more,” Groat said. “We also have a room for parents and caregivers where they are treated to dinner and a couple of hours to relax.”
This year’s theme was “Back to the Roaring ’20s,” with many guests dressed in period outfits. Hair, makeup, and photography services were available, and each guest received flowers.
“They each received a crown, because every guest is the king or queen of the prom,” Groat said. “Each guest had a buddy who stayed with them the whole evening, many of them George Fox University students. Parents and caregivers are welcome to stay in a separate space where they are treated to dinner and games.”
The Newberg-Dundee Police Department brought its K-9, and Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue was on site with an ambulance for guests to tour.
All photos courtesy Northwest Christian Church and Shine Prom
