Participants in last year's Shine prom take to the dance floor.Reservations are due by Friday, May 9, for Bridge Christian Church of Chattanooga's second annual Shine celebration, a prom for area residents with special needs.
"O Happy Days" is the theme for this year's event, which will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 16, in the ballroom at The Chattanoogan, 1201 S. Broad St.
The goal is to shower those with special needs and their families and caregivers with love, dinner, dancing, pampering and fellowship, according to organizers. The event is open to all Chattanooga-area residents with special needs and is free to all taking part.
Pastor David Sternberg says the Bridge Christian Church congregation is excited about hosting Shine for a second year.
"Last year's event was incredible and enjoyed by everyone who attended," he says. "It was also a wonderful opportunity for church members and volunteers to serve special-needs families."
The pampering starts even before the prom begins, as attendees are treated to hair styling and makeup design.
When guests arrive at The Chattanoogan, a professional photographer will take pictures as they walk down the red carpet. Photographers will capture more images throughout the evening, and photo stations will be set up in the ballroom.
A dinner prepared by executive chef Adam Roe and his culinary team will be served. After dinner, participants will enjoy carnival-style games and dancing to a variety of music provided by a DJ from Entertainment Solutions.
Special-needs guests will be escorted by a designated volunteer, who will spend time with them while caregivers have the option of being pampered in the Caregiver Relaxation Room. Massages, mini-manicures and mini-pedicures will be provided at no charge.
Guests are encouraged to wear what they are most comfortable in, from period attire that goes along with the "O Happy Days" theme to jeans to semi-formal clothing.
Participants may register at www.shinechattanooga.org or by calling Bridge Christian Church at 423-643-0202. Interested volunteers and potential donors may also call the church office or sign up online.
Bridge Christian Church is a nondenominational, independent Christian Church that was founded in 2010. Gatherings are held at 10:30 a.m. Sundays at Westview Elementary School in the East Brainerd community.