Every parent knows the magic of watching their child light up on a special day. Whether it’s a birthday, graduation, or a school dance, those milestone moments create memories families treasure forever. But for families who have children or loved ones with different abilities and specisl, opportunities like these can sometimes feel out of reach. That’s where Joy Prom Piedmont-Triad comes in.

Since 2015, Joy Prom has welcomed teens and adults with different abilities, growing from 100 guests in its first year to nearly 400 in 2024. This free, community-sponsored prom is fully accessible and open to individuals aged 16 and older with special needs. It’s a night where every guest is celebrated like the star they are.

The celebration begins the moment guests arrive. After check-in, each guest walks the red carpet as their name is called, greeted with cheers and applause. Inside, the venue comes alive with music, dancing, photo booths, limo rides, games, and food — but it’s the smiles, laughter, and connections that make the night unforgettable.

For one mom, the evening was life-changing. “When my daughter twirled out on the dance floor, I couldn’t stop crying,” she said. “She doesn’t often get invited to parties or dances, but at Joy Prom she was the star. People clapped for her, danced with her, and loved her just as she is. It was the first time I’ve ever seen her so confident and free.”

Guests feel that magic too. One young man shared, “Joy Prom is my favorite night of the year. Everyone is happy. Everyone is my friend.”

And it’s not just families and guests who are touched. Volunteers often walk away changed. “I signed up thinking I would be giving my time to serve,” one volunteer reflected. “But I left with my heart full. I’ve never seen such pure joy in one room. It reminded me what true community looks like.”

This is the heart of Joy Prom: bringing people together. When our community surrounds our guests with love and acceptance, barriers fall, friendships form, and we are reminded that joy has no limits.

But creating this kind of magic takes all of us. Each year, Joy Prom requires hundreds of volunteers and nearly $50,000 in cash and in-kind donations to cover everything from food and décor to entertainment and accessibility needs. Volunteers are the lifeblood of the event — whether they’re setting up, serving food, being a dance partner, or cheering on the red carpet. Just as important are our donors, whose gifts — large and small — make it possible to keep Joy Prom completely free for every guest.

As Joy Prom has grown, so have our needs. Rising costs and a growing guest list mean we need more hands and more hearts than ever before. But together, we can ensure that Joy Prom continues to shine as a night where joy, unity, and love fill the room.

How You Can Help Bring the Magic to Life

• Volunteer: Sign up to help before, during, or after our event. Volunteer opportunities are available for ages 5 and up. So bring a friend, your family, or your coworkers — no special skills needed.

• Donate: Every dollar makes a difference. From $25 to $5,000, your tax-deductible gift helps us create an unforgettable night. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for individuals and businesses.

• Spread the Word: Share Joy Prom with your church, civic groups, workplace, and friends. Follow us on social media, like and share our posts, and help us extend the invitation to others.

Joy Prom isn’t just about one night — it’s about connection, love, and the belief that our community is stronger when we celebrate everyone. Whether you volunteer, donate, or simply share the story, you’re helping to create a night that changes lives — not only for our guests, but for every person who takes part.

Joy Prom Piedmont-Triad will be held on November 1, 2025, at Truist Stadium.  We hope you will consider joining us as we roll out the red carpet once again. Together, let’s give our community a night where joy truly shines.

To learn more about volunteering, sponsorships, or donations, visit www.joyprompiedmonttriad.org or call Shelley at 803-238-5432.