The main dining room at Dynasty Banquet Hall in Hammond recently resembled a high school gymnasium, complete with the arrival of the prom king and queen in a limousine.
The second annual Special Needs Prom, offered by Family and Friends of Northwest Indiana, welcomed more than 100 guests. Included were consumers from the special needs community, their friends and families.
“My two sisters and I are here in support of our sister Kim,” said Karen Grace of Crown Point, as she waited for her sister Kim Pieramico to arrive by limousine. “She’s this year’s prom queen.”
Steven Mitchell accompanied her out of the limousine.
On the evening’s agenda was a formal dinner, fashion show, entertainment, dancing and tunes provided by local DJ Big Bobby B.
Dennis Hardesty of the Hammond Boxing Club was one of the sponsors of the prom and sat at the head table. The atmosphere was a win-win for everyone, he said.
“Everyone here has hopes and dreams, just like everyone else. They should be able to have their own prom,” he said, as participants started to fill the dance floor. “And this (event) is rewarding for me, too. I’m enjoying their smiles and the fun they’re having.”
Hardesty also complimented Desiree Billups, the president and founder of Family and Friends of Northwest Indiana, on her continuing efforts to provide the special needs community with outlets.
“Desiree has so much passion for what she is doing,” he said. “And it’s great to see that she has so much support behind her.”
Family and Friends of Northwest Indiana volunteer Jamanil Jones greeted guests at the sign-in table outside the ballroom.
“Many of the consumers want to be independent and enjoy social events,” he said. “This (prom) and other activities give them the chance to do that. And also to meet new friends too.”
Visitor Enriquta Santos of Hammond made note of the beautiful dresses many of the girls were wearing.
“It’s important to have something like this,” she said, as the fashion show began. “Everyone should have the opportunity to dress up and attend a formal event, especially the girls.”
The mission of Family and Friends of Northwest Indiana is to encourage special needs individuals to become as independent as possible and to encourage individuals to socialize with others in an integrated setting — one with handicapped and nonhandicapped individuals.
The group also provides information on community activities in Northwest Indiana and surrounding cities.
In addition, they raise funds that allow those with special needs to access community events and activities without monetary restraints.
Also on the agenda is providing in-service training for special needs individuals and their families, regarding their rights, housing, health care and waiver services.
Each month, Billups offers a themed-dance for those with special needs. All are held at the Jean Shepherd Center in Hammond.
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Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
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For more information about Family and Friends of Northwest Indiana: 773-587-4319.