Frequently Asked Questions

We are also hosting an onsite dinner experience just for you! Please let us treat you to dinner as you relax and enjoy the evening while being close enough that we can easily find you should we need you. You will see the option in the King or Queen registration form.

If you still decide to stay with your guest, you will need to register to be a volunteer buddy, attend the training, and complete a background check. This must be done before the final training date.

Yes, one spouse or friend is welcome to come! This event is for adults only. We will NOT have enough food and refreshments for more than two caregivers to join us. We appreciate your understanding and respect these limits.

Yes. Please email jennifer@bighouse.church before the event, and one of the Night To Shine team members will respond to you.

During the event, it will be difficult to reach leaders. All leads are actively working the event to help make sure it is a memorable experience. You will be given the number of your buddy to communicate with during the event.

We understand that large events can sometimes be overwhelming. We have several options available:

• Sensory Room: A quiet, calm space for breaks
• Trained Staff: Team members experienced with sensory needs
• Flexible Participation: Guests can step away from activities as needed
• Caregiver Access: We can quickly contact you if needed
• Early Departure: Guests can leave early if necessary

Your buddy will be attentive to your guest's needs and comfort level throughout the evening.

Yes! You can view highlights from previous Night to Shine events on our website and social media pages. These give you a wonderful preview of the joy, celebration, and activities that make Night to Shine so special. Check out our photo galleries and video highlights to see the magic in action!

Here are some ways to help prepare your guest for this special evening:

• Show them photos/videos from previous events
• Practice dancing or listening to music together
• Talk about what to expect (buddy, activities, dinner)
• Let them help choose their outfit
• Visit the venue beforehand if possible (Visit on a Sunday morning during service)
• Role-play meeting new people and trying new activities
• Discuss the schedule and timeline for the evening

Most importantly, emphasize that this is their special night to have fun and be celebrated!

We have many volunteer opportunities with different age requirements:

• Buddy (16+): One-on-one companion for guests
• Activities (14+): Help with games and entertainment
• Hair/Makeup/Nails (14+): Beauty services for guests
• Food Service (14+): Serve meals and refreshments
• Red Carpet (14+): Cheer on arriving guests
• Gate Keeper (18+): Security and safety
• And many more!

Visit our Volunteer Roles page to see all available positions and select your preference.

No experience is required! We provide training and support for all volunteers. What matters most is:

• A heart to serve
• Patience and kindness
• Willingness to learn
• Enthusiasm for making others feel special

You'll receive specific training for your role before the event, and team leaders will be available throughout the evening to help.

Volunteers should dress in Prom-Attire to complement the prom atmosphere:

• Nice dress pants or slacks with collared shirt
• Dress or blouse with appropriate skirt/pants
• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes (you'll be on your feet!)
• Avoid overly casual clothing like jeans, t-shirts, or sneakers

Remember, this is the guests' special night - dress to honor them!

All volunteers receive comprehensive training before the event:

• General Orientation: Overview of Night to Shine mission and goals
• Role-Specific Training: Detailed instruction for your volunteer position
• Sensitivity Training: Best practices for interacting with people with special needs
• Communication Skills: Effective communication techniques
• Emergency Procedures: Safety protocols and emergency contacts
• Event Logistics: Schedule, locations, and key information

Training sessions are typically held 1-2 weeks before the event and attendance is mandatory for all volunteers.

Yes! We welcome teen volunteers for most positions. Age requirements vary by role:

• Ages 14-15: Activities, Hair/Makeup, Food Service, Red Carpet (with adult supervision)
• Ages 16-17: Most roles including Buddy positions
• Ages 18+: All roles including those requiring additional responsibility

Volunteers under 18 may need parent/guardian permission and must attend training with an adult. Some positions may require background checks for volunteers 16 and older.

We understand that not everyone can volunteer for the entire event duration. Some roles may allow for shift-based volunteering, particularly in:

• Setup and preparation (before 6:00 PM)
• Cleanup and breakdown (after 9:00 PM)
• Certain activity stations

However, Buddy roles require the full event commitment to ensure continuity for our guests. Please indicate your availability on your volunteer registration form.

Absolutely! We love family volunteer teams. Each family member will need to:

• Complete individual volunteer registration forms
• Meet age requirements for their chosen roles
• Attend training sessions
• Complete any required background checks

While we'll try to place family members in complementary roles, we may not be able to guarantee you'll work in the exact same area due to volunteer needs and guest assignments.

Registration is easy and available on our website:

• Guests: Use the Guest Registration form
• Volunteers: Use the Volunteer Registration form
• Vendors: Use the Vendor Registration form

All registrations must be completed online. You'll receive a confirmation email once your registration is processed.

Registration typically closes 2-3 weeks before the event to allow time for planning and preparation.

Yes, you can update your registration by contacting our team. Please include:

• Your full name as registered
• The specific changes you need to make
• Your contact information

Changes may not be possible closer to the event date, so please update as soon as possible.

Don't worry! Registration mistakes can be corrected by contacting our team at maggief@hnw.org. Include your full name, the specific error, and the correct information. Please make corrections as soon as possible, especially for important details like dietary restrictions or accessibility needs.

Yes! You should receive an email confirmation within 24-48 hours of submitting your registration. This confirmation will include:

• Confirmation of your registration details
• Important event information and updates
• Next steps (training schedules for volunteers)
• Contact information for questions

If you don't receive confirmation within 48 hours, please check your spam folder and contact us directly.

Yes, caregivers, parents, or guardians can complete registration forms on behalf of guests. For volunteers, parents can register minor children. However, the person completing the form should have:

• Complete and accurate information about the participant
• Knowledge of any special needs, preferences, or restrictions
• Authority to make decisions for the participant
• Access to emergency contact information

Yes, if we reach capacity for guests or specific volunteer roles, we maintain waitlists. Being on a waitlist means:

• You'll be contacted if spots become available
• Updates about other ways to get involved

This is why we encourage early registration to secure your preferred participation!

Safety is our top priority. We have comprehensive safety measures including:

• Medical Staff: Nurses and EMT professionals onsite
• Background Checks: All volunteers undergo screening
• Trained Security: Professional security personnel
• Emergency Protocols: Clear procedures for various situations
• Incident Reporting: System for documenting and addressing any issues
• First Aid Stations: Multiple locations throughout the venue

We're fully prepared for medical emergencies:

• Medical professionals are stationed throughout the venue
• Emergency contact information is readily available
• Direct communication with local emergency services
• Parents/caregivers can be contacted immediately
• Private area available for medical attention

Please ensure all medical information and emergency contacts are accurate on your registration form.

There are no specific health requirements to attend Night to Shine. However, for everyone's safety:

• Guests with contagious illnesses should stay home
• Please inform us of any severe allergies or medical conditions
• Medications should be clearly labeled, held and managed by the caregiver
• Any special medical equipment needs should be noted in registration

We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable experience!