Oxford, Alabama – On Friday, February 7, 2025, the city of Oxford welcomed hundreds of attendees to the Tim Tebow Foundation’s annual Night to Shine event, a special needs prom that offered an unforgettable experience for individuals of all abilities. The event, held at the Oxford Civic Center, was a night of glamour, joy, and community spirit, thanks to the combined efforts of local organizations such as the Oxford First Baptist Church, Rainbow Omega, A.I.D.B. (Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind), the Oxford Police Department, Oxford Paramedics, and the Oxford Fire Department.
Guests of all ages arrived dressed in their finest prom attire, making their grand entrance on the red carpet as photographers captured the moment. With smiles as wide as their dreams, each participant was treated like a star. The evening’s festivities included a dazzling dance floor where attendees showed off their best moves, with many sharing their excitement and expressing their joy in their own unique ways.
“This is an amazing experience for everyone,” said one volunteer. “It’s not just about what we’re able to give to our guests, but the joy they bring into our lives. It’s truly special.”
Guests were treated to VIP experiences, including party buses and the crowning ceremony where each guest was named King or Queen of the prom. Many participants shared how meaningful it was to be celebrated in such a way, with one volunteer saying, “Being able to crown each guest was incredibly memorable. Many of them had never experienced this level of recognition, and it’s something they’ll never forget.”
For others, the highlight of the night was the opportunity to dance with friends and family. “Dancing with my sweetheart and seeing everyone have a blast together—it was truly a magical moment,” one attendee said.
The Tim Tebow Foundation’s Night to Shine event returned to Oxford for its second year, promising a bigger and better experience than ever before. According to Ashley and Daley Grace Alford, the event organizers, the night offered many wonderful opportunities for volunteers to get involved, whether in the respite room, sensory room, or simply as buddies welcoming and interacting with the guests.
“Night to Shine is a special needs prom for individuals 14 and older. This will actually be our second year hosting it in the city of Oxford. We have so many wonderful opportunities for people to serve,” said Ashley. “Whether it be in the respite room or sensory room or honestly just as buddies greeting the guests, welcoming the guests, being paparazzi to take tons of pictures for us or videos, and then just dancing and interacting with all of our special guests from the community.”
In addition to the fun activities and support during the event, Ashley and Daley Grace also highlighted the special gifts that were available for all guests. “We will also be having special gifts or gift bags available for all of our wonderful special guests in the community,” Ashley shared. “So if there are local businesses that may not be able to get involved and serve on the night of the event, but would like to donate something to the gift bag, that would be excellent and well received, and that can also be communicated through the church office.”
Volunteers and guests alike were filled with gratitude as they took part in this inclusive event, knowing it was an experience that not only gave back to the community but created memories that would last a lifetime.
If you missed this year’s Night to Shine, don’t worry—plans are already underway for next year’s event. Start practicing your dance moves and stay tuned for more details on how you can be part of this incredible celebration.
