Celebrating Every Star: Inclusive Prom Lights Up Salt Lake City
Written by: Julee Laurent
Salt Lake City, UT – On a warm May evening, laughter echoed through the halls of Neighborhood House as over 120 teens and adults with disabilities experienced something many had never had before, a prom of their own.
Hosted collaboratively by Neighborhood House, Columbus Community Center, and the Ability Inclusion Center, The Time of Our Lives Prom was much more than a dance. It was a heartfelt celebration of inclusion, collaboration, and the power of community. From glittering gowns to pasta dinners and some serious moves on the dance floor, every detail of the May 16 event was designed to make each guest feel celebrated, empowered, and unforgettable.
“It’s about creating a moment where our clients are kings and queens for the night,” said Deb Hall of Neighborhood House. “Many of them have never attended a prom or formal event. This night was about celebrating every person just as they are.”
The event welcomed guests ranging in age from 18 to over 80 and included a “Glam Lounge” hosted by Mrs. Utah, Charlotte Shores, who brought her personal connection to the neurodivergent community. Volunteers from the National Charity League offered hair, makeup, and pre-prom pampering. Guests enjoyed a dinner donated by Olive Garden, took professional photos under a beautiful balloon arch, and danced to a soundtrack curated by a Columbus Community Center client-turned-DJ.
The prom was the result of over a year of conversations between the partner organizations. “We had talked about doing a joint project, but it wasn’t until this year that we dreamed bigger,” said Hall. “When we brought everyone together, that’s when the magic happened.”
Planning included everything from inter-agency shopping trips to thrift stores, complete with generous discounts, from The Other Side Academy and Savers Thrift Store, to pre-event meet-ups to help clients become comfortable with one another. And although none of the nonprofits had the event in their annual budgets, they pooled resources and reached out to the generous Salt Lake community to make it happen.
“There was so much love and resourcefulness behind every detail,” said Monica Owen, Chief Development Officer at Columbus Community Center. “We’re already talking about how to make this an annual event.”
Looking ahead, organizers hope to include even more community partners. In the meantime, plans are already in the works for quarterly collaborative projects that will keep these new friendships growing.
At its heart, The Time of Our Lives Prom was a reminder of what’s possible when people come together with creativity, compassion, and a shared belief that everyone deserves to be seen, valued, and celebrated.
“This isn’t just a prom,” Hall added. “It’s a promise that no one is left out of the joy.” If you would like to learn more or be a part of next year’s event, contact Deb Hall at (801)363-4589 ext. 105 or by email at deb@nhutah.org.
