TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Friday night marked the sixth year for one of Mount Pleasant Church’s most anticipated events. The Grace Gala is a prom night for children and adults with special needs.
The goal is to highlight the talents of attendees that are often overlooked.
Arriving in style was Austin Matherly, a first-time participant. He says his goals are simple; sing karaoke and meet new people.
“I’ll sing We Will Rock You,” He added.
Attendees are assigned a “buddy”, or a volunteer to help navigate through all of the services offered, which included karaoke, dancing, food and getting their picture taken.
Participants are sponsored so the event comes at no cost to them.
Before hitting the dance floor, arriving members got to walk down a red carpet showing off their outfits. They were given an escort, which included officers from THPD, the Indiana State Police and the Vigo County Sheriff’s Office.
The emcee was WTWO’s Julie Henricks.
“It’s a community effort, it’s really cool to see volunteers across the board do the things that they do. But, just to see our guests smile and be happy, that’s the real payoff,” Event Organizer, Jess Berryhill, said.
The Grace Gala is a two-day event, and the church needs volunteers. Anyone wanting to help is asked to go to Mount Pleasant Church located at 3050 E Davis Dr.
Day two is on April 9, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
“I would tell them it’d be one of the best nights and they are very important to many people,” attendee, Noel Harden said when asked about the dance.
Matherly adds if this dance or life has taught him anything, it’s to be yourself.
