Every year, communities across the world come together for Night to Shine — an unforgettable, free prom-style celebration for teens and adults with special needs. What looks like a dance at first glance is actually something much deeper: a night that honors worth, builds confidence, and creates lasting joy for people who are too often overlooked.
For adults with disabilities, events like Night to Shine are more than just a party. They are opportunities for connection, celebration, self-expression, and belonging — experiences that are vital to a full and meaningful life.
🎉 Why Inclusive Prom Matters
Prom is a cultural milestone — a chance to dress up, be seen, celebrate with friends, and create memories. But for many adults with disabilities, traditional social events like this are rare or inaccessible due to physical, sensory, or social barriers.
That’s where Night to Shine steps in.
Instead of being an afterthought, adults with disabilities are front and center:
- Red carpet entrances with cheering crowds and photos
- Crowns and titles for every guest of honor
- Music, dancing, and food
- Volunteer support and sensory-friendly spaces
- A community gathering that honors dignity and joy
These events remind all of us that joy is essential, not optional — and that every person deserves to be celebrated exactly as they are.
🌍 Night to Shine: A Global Celebration
Hosted annually by the Tim Tebow Foundation, Night to Shine takes place on the Friday before Valentine’s Day in hundreds of host locations across the United States and around the world. It’s built on the idea that every human life is worthy of celebration.
While each local event is unique, they all share one common goal: to create a night where adults and teens with special needs are treated as kings and queens for a night.
You can learn more about the movement on the official event page: https://timtebowfoundation.org/night-to-shine/
Locations For Our Readers in New Jersey
If you are looking for a location to attend this event in northern New Jersey, here are a few:
- Liquid Church, 299 Webro Road, Parsippany NJ 07054
- The Chapel, 264 Jacksonville Road, Lincoln Park, NJ 07035
- St. Ann Melkite Catholic Church, 802 Rifle Camp Road, Woodland Park, NJ 07424
- Cornerstone Christian Church, 495 Wyckoff Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ 07481
- Bethany Church, 605 Pascack Road, Washington Township, NJ 07676
- Hoboken Grace, 409 14th Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
💖 How to Volunteer or Support
Night to Shine thrives on community volunteers. If you want to be part of creating joyful, life-affirming experiences for attendees:
- Go to the Night to Shine site
- Select your host location
- Complete the volunteer form for that specific event
Volunteers help with everything from red-carpet cheering and greeting to hair, makeup, limo rides, dancing, and sensory support.
🎶 More Than a Dance — A Statement of Belonging
Inclusive prom nights like Night to Shine are powerful because they shift culture — from passive acceptance to active celebration of people with disabilities. These events remind us that dignity, joy, and community are not extras; they are essential parts of life.
At Community Supports Network, we believe in creating experiences that honor the full person. Whether it’s through social events, opportunities for connection, or everyday moments of support, we are committed to helping every person feel valued, seen, and celebrated — not just for one night, but every day.