A regional organization is helping to make an upcoming event unforgettable for local residents with special needs. C.A.R.E.S of Western PA Regional Director Mindy Bowen:
“We’re really excited. We’ve partnered with Woodland Valley Church to co-host Tim Tebow’s Night to Shine. It is a prom night experience for anyone with a disability. It’s going on not just in our Cranberry site but they’re anticipating over 90,000 guests worldwide.”
Locally, the Night To Shine will take place this Friday (1/9) from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Pittsburgh Marriott North in Cranberry. Participants ages 14 and older with a full range of disabilities will be paired with a “buddy” to serve as a chaperone or date for the evening.
A DJ as well as a live band with autistic members will provide entertainment. Although participants at this event have already been finalized, according to Bowen volunteers are needed to help add to the star-treatment experience.
“Registration is full for this year, however we’re looking for people to come out and line the red carpet and be paparazzi of sorts; take pictures, yell and cheer, and make everybody feel like they’re Hollywood VIPs.”
Community and Residential Empowerment Services or C.A.R.E.S has been established as a community focused Human Service agency in Mars for just over two years.
Written by Ryan Saeler
