Shine Prom guests and volunteers brighten the night

The Shine Prom is an annual event like no other. Hosted by the Rocky Mountain Christian Church (RMCC) on Sept. 20, the fourth annual prom offered warmth and connection to residents throughout the Niwot area while celebrating individuals with special needs.

Guests began by making their way through a red-carpet welcome, where Niwot High School sports teams cheered them on. Cheer volume was specific to each visitor's preference, and students applauded in sign language for hearing impaired individuals.

The 85 guests were treated to an evening of dance, food, horse drawn carriage rides and games. Guests were all members of the special needs community and ranged from adolescents to seniors. When asked what his favorite part of the event was, Coop Knight replied cheerfully, "Other than everything?"

Dancing was a popular choice, with a DJ and elegant lighting bringing excitement to the floor, but Sophia Hicks explained that it was also joyful for guests to "get dressed up in dresses."

Guest Jeff Clark said he enjoyed "the horse and carriage rides, and probably the pictures that we have taken." A photo booth near the dance floor was a popular stop for attendees.

Every visitor seemed to enjoy the food provided by Fuzzy's Taco Shop and Spitz Mediterranean Street Food Restaurant.

Shine Prom also featured a game room, life-sized Star Wars characters, and karaoke, providing upbeat energy in every room and a distinctly welcoming atmosphere.

"It warms my heart the way everyone with special needs, including me, ... feels safe and included," guest Benjamin Tarasewicz said.

A sensory room on site was available for guests needing personal support. Intended to provide quiet and comfort to individuals feeling overwhelmed, it was managed by mental health professionals and volunteers. A social table, private art desk, relaxing seating and weighted items were also available.

RMCC held Shine Proms simultaneously at its Niwot and Frederick locations. For the past three years, Teecy Stately has led the operation. "I love seeing new volunteers get involved and have a great experience," she said. "It is one of my favorite nights of the year."

150 helpers brought the event to life this year in an effort to uplift those with special needs. "It is a blast to see all of our guests have a good time, and have all the smiles on their faces, and just enjoying the evening together," volunteer Paige shared, who greeted attendees and provided them each with a corsage or pin.

Rich Howard, one of the Mountain View Fire Rescue employees helping out, commented, "We think it is a great opportunity to work with the community here, and it is just our way of giving back." Compassion and respect were echoed by every volunteer present.

The event honored caregivers as well as people with special needs. While guests celebrated with their assigned buddies, caretakers were welcome to a "respite room" where they could enjoy free meals, meet new people, and play bingo. This was intended to provide a restful evening to hardworking companions.

"The food is delicious, and I have also connected with some amazing people," parent Cherie Eickmann stated. "It has been hard overall to connect with different people. So that has been really valuable." Unity and understanding in the respite room were deeply appreciated.

Caregivers expressed their appreciation for the comfort offered to them, and for the celebration of the special needs community. Heather Mann explained that her daughter had long hoped to attend a dance and loved the opportunity to finally do so, "This has just been such a delight and so much fun," Mann said. "It is really a gift to these kids."