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The 12th annual Night to Shine event drew a massive crowd at the Prime Osborn Convention Center in Jacksonville, creating an unforgettable evening.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Friday evening was a magical one for hundreds of individuals with special needs on the First Coast, as they were celebrated and treated like royalty.
The Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center was abuzz with excitement as thousands gathered for the event. Volunteers, acting as enthusiastic paparazzi, lined the red carpet to welcome the esteemed guests to a prom experience unlike any other. This heartwarming event, sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation and organized locally by The Church of Eleven22, is part of a global celebration involving over 900 churches. Now in its 12th year, Night to Shine extends its reach to more than 70 countries worldwide.
Jennifer Campbell, whose son Zack joined the festivities, emphasized the significance of events like this for adults with special needs.
“Once they reach a certain age, many activities fade away for those with special needs, especially after they leave the school system,” Campbell explained. “An event like this is extraordinary for them. They are truly the stars here. Just look around the room—they’re absolutely beaming from ear to ear.”
Volunteers say the night is just as impactful for them.
“We have a neighbor who comes every year and just seeing how excited she is for it and to see how it reflects God’s glory for us to enjoy these people He created in His image,” Kiersten Rudd said.
She came with her husband and young children who took part as paparazzi.
“We are supposed to cheer them on and make them feel loved and special and excited about the night.”
Reggie Sanders says the joy at Night to Shine is unmatched.
“For me celebrating these great people having a good time give them a night of their own to shine, really just go out and shine, and all the activities inside they always do a fantastic job.”
At the end of the night, Demi Tebow took the stage to remind those with special needs how valued and deeply loved they are. Then every guest of honor was crowned prom king or queen.
“It’s a really good night to spend with all different kinds of people of all ages just to celebrate life in general,” Lisa Tampkin said.