Ashland Area YMCA to Host Special Needs Prom Next Weekend
Sasha Bush
The Ashland Beacon
The Ashland Area YMCA is one of the most selfless, caring, and supportive institutions in our Tri-State area. You simply can’t help but feel the love the minute you walk into that building. There could be no statement truer than when you hear people say, “The Ashland Area YMCA has something for everyone.” Whether you enjoy working out in solitude in one of their cutting-edge fitness centers, attending fitness classes taught by highly qualified individuals, shooting some basketball with friends, or attending one of the many events that the Ashland Area YMCA puts on throughout the year, you are sure to find something that not only caters to your personal likes but also makes you feel welcomed, appreciated, and part of the YMCA family.
Priding itself on its core Christian values and its top-notch staff, the Ashland Area YMCA is always coming up with fun and unique events, leagues, classes, and groups for all to enjoy. One of the Ashland Area YMCA’s newest and perhaps most anticipated upcoming events this year will be the first annual “Kings and Queens Prom.” The Kings and Queens Prom will take place on August 26, 2023, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and is open to all special needs children ages 14 and up. The idea of hosting a prom specifically for special needs children came up during the planning of the YMCA’s Special Olympics, which will take place at a later date to be determined. Julie Vinson, Training Coordinator at the Ashland Area YMCA, shared, “We were already in the process of organizing a Special Olympics when a member of the Ashland Area YMCA, LT Turner suggested the idea for us to hold a special needs prom. After attending "Our Night to Shine'' (another special needs prom that is held annually) at her church, Christ Temple, Brooke Yanik, our Fitness and Wellness Coordinator, proposed the idea of having the Ashland YMCA host a prom specifically for individuals with special needs.”
Immediately the idea was well received by everyone, especially members who were excited to hear about such an event. Vinson, being one of the most caring and inspiring individuals I personally have ever come across, soon found herself engaged in a conversation with someone who was expressing appreciation for this event. This individual had faced challenges in getting involved and connecting with others. Vinson explained to this individual, “The special needs community is often overlooked. We strive to create a welcoming, inclusive and safe environment for ALL! This is our way of celebrating God's love for you.” Vinson added that she is highly motivated to make each and every individual feel like royalty at the Kings and Queens Prom.
Over 50 participants have signed up to attend the Ashland Area YMCA’s first-ever special needs prom. This event would not have been made possible had it not been for the generosity of its many sponsors. The list of sponsors continues to grow daily, but currently includes the following: Visit Ashland KY Tourism Office, Brace Yourself Orthodontics, Amazon, McDonald's, Kings Way Church, WellCare, Members Choice Credit Union, Giovanni’s Ashland Corporate Office, Emmaus Respite & Resources, Warrick’s Handyman Services, Brighter Future, United Way of Northeast Kentucky, Giovanni’s of Catlettsburg, Cecil Fannin Bakery. Several local photographers have also donated to this event. The Community Neighborhood, run by Jeremy Holbrook, donated all the prom dresses for each guest. Several local hairstylists and makeup artists have donated their services to make these kings and queens truly feel like royalty. “It is a true blessing to witness numerous individuals ready to volunteer their services without hesitation,” expressed Yanik.
Scott Campbell, Ashland Area YMCA Executive Director, shared his enthusiasm about the event, “I’m more excited about this event probably more than anything we’ve done. Not to say that I am not proud of everything else we have done… it’s just that this event is special to me. All the children and adults with special needs have such big hearts, and I just love to interact with them. It’s just a lot of fun… they are a lot of fun, and I can’t wait to see them enjoy this night that was made just for them.”
If you or anyone you know would like to sign up to attend the Ashland Area YMCA’s first ever Kings and Queens Prom, don’t fret because you still have time. You can call the front desk at 606.324.6191 or stop by the Ashland Area YMCA and register at the front desk, which is located at 3232 Megan Neyer Way Ashland, KY 41102. If you would like to become a sponsor or simply volunteer for this event, you can do so by calling the number listed above.
“Stop thinking in terms of limitations and start thinking in terms of possibilities.”
-Terry Josephson