Carmel church to celebrate teens with special needs in drive-thru prom event

CARMEL, Ind. (WISH) – A central Indiana church is hoping to keep the dancing alive as it prepares for their annual Night to Shine prom for teens with special needs during the pandemic. 

It’s part of the national Night to Shine hosted by the Tim Tebow Foundation and while the pandemic hasn’t canceled it, prom will be virtual this year. 

Mandy Polster with Northview Church in Carmel says registrations are down by almost 70% for their local event. 

“It’s been hard getting families excited about a virtual event because it doesn’t sound as fun,” said Polster.

But the church is looking to change that through several additional events leading up to the big night on Feb. 12. 

On Wednesday the church is hosting a Goody Bag packing party for volunteers to pack gift bags with items like tiaras, bracelets, water bottles and other fun items.

Then on Feb. 10 they will host a drive thru event where pre-registered guests can pick up their bags in preparation for prom night. 

Polster says the drive thru will have a red carpet, dancing in cars, and music.

“We will still see the joy on their faces,” said volunteer Heidi Stan. 

For anyone looking to attend or volunteer at any of the events, click here.