A Night to Shine 2024, Klamath Falls
There wasn’t dancing in the street, but guests at the 2024 Night to Shine could dance the night away, have a horse-drawn wagon ride and experience limousine service.
A concept of the Tim Tebow Foundation, Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs. The last Klamath Night to Shine was held in 2020.
“For me, it was so fun to see all attendees — both participants and buddies — coming together and having such a wonderful time!” said Heidi Gaither, director of Klamath County Developmental Disability Services. “I look forward to this event taking place for years to come.”
The first local Night to Shine was organized by Rebecca Kays and Dena Haudenshild in 2017, sponsored by WestSide Community Church of the Nazarene. The event allowed their hearts for people with special needs to move beyond their work at Klamath Falls City Schools further into the community.
Between the pandemic and Kays’ untimely death, Night to Shine had become a fond memory.
Staff members from Sky Lakes Rehabilitation Services on Eberlein stepped forward to offer funds to revive the event, with the first organization meeting held November 10. The tight timeline of an event set to occur the Friday before Valentine’s Day didn’t deter the group who worked to make the night a reality. Several groups, including the Tim Tebow Foundation, provided additional funding.
First Presbyterian Church became the host and Pastor Richard Pfeil took away lasting memories.
“What stood out for me... how old the attendees were,” Pfeil said. “How long they have dealt with their disability and yet how joyful they were. I saw so many smiles! Then the number of volunteers who gave their whole day (some) and whole evening chaperoning the guests.
“I also got to talk to some of the parents and I was amazed by their resilience. Some have cared for their child for 50-60 years. They were in their 80s and yet they weren't bitter or worn out. They coped well, even thrived. All the ones I talked to, it was faith that carried them through a life most of us would not choose. They were an impressive group!”
Some of those involved have a long history with the event in Klamath.
“I have participated in this event each year, as I have helped to coordinate information in order for guest to be invited,” said Cecilia Silcox. “The revival of this means so much to these folks and the night is so magical for them. I would love for it to always be available. The Community inclusion of this particular event is so very heartwarming and I love that our little community pulls off the biggest things!!”
Silcox went on to relate how meaningful the even was for one of her clients.
“One of the people I support who attended as a guest, only leaves her home for medical appointments and occasional shopping,” said Silcox. “Her only outside connections are with one family member and paid caregivers. She uses a wheelchair to ambulate; she was provided a buddy who pushed her around the dance floor and engaged with her all night.
“When I would pass by and speak with her, she had a smile from ear to ear and told me she was so happy she was invited and actually got to attend,” she said. Silcox noted at one point the woman expressed her appreciation with tears in her eyes.
