Night to Shine is a volunteer opportunity coming up soon on February 9th. It is an event that celebrates our community, giving back to our loved ones with Down Syndrome. It is a night without judgment to experience a quality evening of food, dancing, limo drives, ice cream carts, red carpet walks, and more!
I was blessed to have experienced it last year. Though I didn’t know it at the time, the experience lasted far beyond one night. I have never been part of a community filled with so much joy. It is a celebration where people aren’t scared to be judged, isn’t filled with anger, and only want to give love and receive it. I was paired with a lovely couple who shared their love for music and traveling. Our conversations lasted all night as my love for them only grew.
One of the night’s top moments is when each honored guest gets to walk the stage and receive a crown. These people, who are so often looked away from, are so full of grace and joy as they get their moment to be acknowledged. The energy in the room never falters, Night to Shine does an incredible job taking care of its honored guests, giving them a special night full of fun that they deserve so much more than once a year.
Though I went in thinking Night to Shine was an opportunity to serve members of the community, it is more than that. It’s a special event whose guests help the volunteers more than they help the guests, it is a blessing getting to engage with each person. I gained love and respect that will last a lifetime. It is an experience everyone needs at least once.
If you want to get involved there is a lot to help with. Not only can you be a buddy that escorts a guest, but there are many other jobs that are necessary to help the night run smoothly such as being a server, a greeter, a cheerer, and helping with set up.
Night to Shine is a wonderful event run by even more wonderful people. It is such a blessing to the community that truly shares the love of Jesus with all guests and volunteers alike. If you are interested in serving during Night to Shine there is still time to sign up. You can sign up at NTS Volunteer Application 2024 – Google Forms or contact the director Jennifer Pickett at [email protected] for more information.