Be prepared for an exciting night!
Know all you need to get ready for the big event.
Search our most commonly asked questions from guests and volunteers.
Guest/Caregiver Questions
What activities can I participate in during Night to Shine?
We have tons of free things for you to do! You can enjoy a full course dinner, dance with a Buddy, take a ride in a limo, and so much more. Caregivers and parents can also rest and enjoy coffee and snacks in the respite rooms. Find out more about all of our activities.
What if my guest needs to take a break from the activities?
If the excitement of the event gets to be too much, please feel free to take some quiet time for yourself.
Guests, unwind and enjoy a calming environment in our Sensory Room.
Caregivers and parents, you can also take a moment to relax in our Respite Room. Enjoy snacks and coffee, and you can even let a volunteer know if you’d like your dinner served there.
Medical staff and comfort dogs will also be onsite to provide some extra relief for guests.
What will be served for dinner?
Dinner will be professionally catered and served. The menu typically consists of a delicious chicken entree, sides like a vegetable or salad, and potato or other dish, dessert, and drinks.
You can tell us any of your dietary restrictions or food allergies when you complete the guest registration form.
Is there a limit to the number of guests who can attend the event?
Yes, registration is limited and offered on a first come first serve basis.
Every year, we plan for 160 guests and 320 caregivers and parents or family members. Please make sure you register before the deadline of January 15, so we can make sure to have enough meals, crowns and tiaras, and gift bags.
How old do I need to be to attend the event?
Night to Shine is for honored guests 14 and older. You’re never too old for this event!
How do I get my complimentary professional prom photo?
We will have photos hanging on lighted strands on the wall as you exit the venue.
If you don’t see yours there, they’ll be available the Monday after the event at Open Hearts Church, (located at 105 E. Division St. in Bolivar) for four weeks.
Volunteer Questions
What are the requirements to volunteer?
To volunteer, you need to have a heart to serve others and to share the love of Christ with our amazing guests!
You’ll also need to fill out the volunteer survey and complete a background check.
Please see the volunteer requirements for minors.
How old do you have to be to volunteer?
Ages 12-15: Need to have a signed permission slip. They’ll also work directly with a parent or other adult volunteer they’re familiar with. They can help with most jobs, especially decorating and set-up and tear-down. Ages 14-15 can be a Co-Buddy with an adult volunteer.
We ask that volunteers under the age of 14 not be in the dance area.
Ages 16-17: Can be a Buddy with a similarly-aged guest.
Learn more about volunteer requirements.
Do I need to have had experience working with the special needs community?
No, not at all! If you do though, please let us know on your registration form.
We also have training resources to help you be prepared for the event.
What will I be doing as a volunteer?
There are many opportunities available!
The volunteer survey you submit will help us pair you with service roles that most interest you.
How should I dress for the event?
Night to Shine is a prom, so please dress as fancy as you like! We are on our feet all night, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
If you prefer to wear a Night to Shine T-shirt, please pair it with casual dress pants and shoes. (Volunteers who help with decorating usually wear the Night to Shine T-shirt with jeans or leggings. You can always change before the guests arrive.)
If you have any questions about appropriate attire, please contact us.
Do you need more volunteers?
Yes, we can also use the help!