“Night to Shine” is an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs, ages 14 and older. Sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation at Northshore Community Church.
Sign up to volunteer here.
Catch hope & encouragement with Erica on weekday mornings from 5:00 AM – 10:00 AM, and Sundays from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM.
TRANSCRIPTION:
Erica:
It’s a special night reserved for some very special people. Night to Shine is back, returning to Northshore Community Church in Kirkland this February 9th, and Beca Nistrian, one of the amazing people who makes it happen every year is with us. Welcome to SPIRIT 105.3 Beca. For someone who’s never experienced Night to Shine, how would you describe it?
Beca:
So this is my 10th year, and it’s just magical. I mean, we just put on a prom night for individuals with special needs. It’s giving back to others that honestly aren’t giving enough, and what they give you is more than what you give them. And that’s the simplest way to tell people. I mean, I tell people it will change your life.
Erica:
That’s a strong statement, Beca. How so?
Beca:
You just see these individuals come in there. They’re so selfless, they’re so full of love. They’re so full of joy, and it just kind of puts your life into perspective and it makes you just look within yourself and be like, wow, I need to be as joyful as they are.
Erica:
Yes. So, how do you all make this night extra special for these extra special people?
Beca:
Every single honored guest that comes, we have stations for them, hair and makeup, shoe shining, Italian soda, cotton, candy… I mean absolutely everything. I mean, it’s better than my prom, and they’re all dolled up and they just feel like kings and queens for a night. And even the parents, we have a respite room for the parents, and they’re really catered to for the few hours that they’re there. So then they get a break also.
Erica:
Oh, that’s beautiful. It’s just a win-win-win for everybody. For somebody who’s never volunteered and they don’t know what to expect, what advice would you give?
Beca:
Just come ready to serve ’em with an open heart because it’s worth it. Because we get, even for months later, parents calling us, sending emails, being like, “My son or daughter’s never gone”, or “They wait for this all year.” I mean, these stories literally, they make you cry. They really do. Because it’s one night out of the year, but they wait a whole year for it. That’s all they have a lot of times. Yeah. It’s heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. I mean, all of those honored guests, those are angels walking on earth, and I believe that a hundred percent.
Erica:
I believe that with you. Beca, thanks to you and your team at Northshore Community Church for Catching the Spirit and shining bright for Jesus in Kirkland.
Beca:
Awesome. Thank you so much, Erica.
Comments