Honored Guests, Parents & Caregivers FAQs

Night to Shine Front Royal @ Virginia Hills Church 

The Tim Tebow Foundation provides a worldwide listing of Night to Shine event locations. Click HERE to view participating locations, then enter your city, state, or ZIP code to find the Night to Shine event closest to you.

Registration for all Honored Guests and Volunteers attending Shenandoah Night to Shine 2027 opens October 1, 2026, and closes January 1, 2027.

This deadline allows our team sufficient time to process all registrations, complete required volunteer background checks, coordinate assignments, and finalize event preparations to help ensure a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable experience for everyone attending.

Missed the registration deadline? Please contact us to inquire about late registration. Requests will be considered based on availability and event requirements.

Night to Shine is for anyone with special needs, ages 14 and older. There is no age maximum.

The event is open to anyone with physical or cognitive special needs, ages 14 and older. We do not have specific guidelines for the eligibility of guests in relation to the legitimacy or severity of their disabilities. 

Honored Guests attending individually (not residing in a group home) should arrive at 6:00 PM.

To ensure a smooth, safe, and welcoming arrival for everyone, the following staggered arrival schedule has been established:

Honored Guests Schedule for Arrival

5:00 PM - ResCare / CAV Group Home 

5:15 PM - GoodLife Group Home 

5:15 PM - Shenandoah Community Residents Group Home

5:45 PM - Shen-Paco Group Homes and Shen-Paco Individuals

5:45 PM - SEARCH Group Home 

6:00 PM – Individuals 

We kindly ask everyone to arrive at their designated time. Directional signage and police officers will be on-site to assist with traffic flow and ensure a smooth arrival at American Celebration on Parade.

Departure and Dismissal Process

An announcement will be made toward the end of the evening, typically between 8:15 PM and 8:30 PM, outlining the dismissal process. Departure will begin following the beach ball drop. Honored Guests will be dismissed in the order they arrived, following a first-in, first-out process, under the direction of event personnel to ensure a safe, orderly departure. Honored Guests are welcome to take a beach ball home as a keepsake.

Dress your best! Whether it's a gown, suit, favorite outfit, or something comfortable that makes you feel special, we encourage every guest to dress in a way that reflects their personality and allows them to enjoy the celebration. If you need assistance with clothing for the evening, we're happy to help! Please contact Kim Cassford at kimcassford@gmail.com or 646-645-6164.

American Celebration on Parade is located at 397 Caverns Road, Quicksburg, VA 22847.

Police officers will be on-site to assist with traffic flow and direct volunteers and guests to designated parking areas. A complimentary shuttle bus will provide transportation to and from the parking lot and event venue.

Wheelchair Accessibility and Special Accommodations: Honored Guests and individuals requiring accessible drop-off or special assistance will be accommodated with direct vehicle access to the entrance of American Celebration on Parade.

Please follow the directions of police officers and event personnel to ensure a safe, organized, and smooth arrival and departure for everyone.

Yes! Guests who use wheelchairs or have mobility challenges may be dropped off at the front entrance of American Celebration on Parade beginning at 6:00 PM. Directional signs and police officers will guide traffic to ensure a safe and smooth arrival.

The safety and well-being of every guest are our highest priorities. In the event of an emergency, our event team will respond promptly, contact the parent or caregiver using the emergency contact information provided during registration, and coordinate appropriate assistance, including emergency services if necessary.

Please ensure all emergency contact information is accurate and that you remain accessible by phone throughout the evening.

Parents and caregivers should arrive at American Celebration on Parade at approximately 9:15 PM. Police officers will be on-site to assist with traffic flow and ensure a safe, orderly pickup process.

Yes! Restroom attendants will be available throughout the evening to assist guests with clothing adjustments and getting ready to return to the celebration. Please note that attendants do not provide personal toileting assistance. Guests requiring this level of support should be accompanied by a parent, caregiver, or designated support person who can provide the necessary assistance.

Parents and caregivers are welcome to accompany their child into the venue, see the celebration space, and help them get comfortably seated. Once their child is settled, we kindly ask parents and caregivers to proceed to The Yellow Barn to enjoy a special evening of respite.

Each Honored Guest is thoughtfully paired with a dedicated, one-on-one volunteer Buddy who will provide companionship and support throughout the celebration.

We understand that some guests may have unique circumstances requiring a parent or caregiver to remain with them. If this applies to your child, please contact our team in advance to discuss special arrangements.

Our goal is to ensure every Honored Guest feels safe, supported, and celebrated while parents and caregivers enjoy a relaxing evening with peace of mind.

We warmly welcome up to two parents or caregivers per Honored Guest to enjoy an evening of respite at The Yellow Barn. If more than two parents or caregivers wish to attend, please contact our team in advance so we can make appropriate accommodations and ensure a welcoming experience for everyone.

 A Special Evening for Parents & Caregivers!

If you are registering a loved one, we warmly invite you to enjoy a well-deserved evening at The Yellow Barn while your Honored Guest celebrates at Night to Shine!

This year, the VFW Women's Auxiliary will be serving a delicious, homemade Sunday-style dinner. The evening will also feature music, fun activities, and complimentary haircuts and massages.

All meals, activities, and special services are complimentary, offered with our heartfelt appreciation for all that you do.

It's our way of celebrating you, too! We hope you'll take advantage of this special opportunity to relax, enjoy fellowship, and make some wonderful memories of your own.

Yes. All volunteers are required to complete a background check to help ensure the safety and well-being of our Honored Guests. Creating a safe, secure, and welcoming environment is our highest priority.

No! Shenandoah Night to Shine is completely free for our Honored Guests, their parents and caregivers, and all volunteers. There are no admission fees or charges for event activities, dinner, refreshments, or parking.

Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, donors, and community partners, we are able to provide this unforgettable evening of celebration at no cost to attendees.

Shenandoah Night to Shine is a free community event made possible through the generosity of donors and community supporters. Your contribution helps us create a memorable evening for our Honored Guests and their families.

To make a donation by check:

Please make your check payable to Antioch Church, with “Night to Shine” in the memo line, and mail it to:

David Ferguson
489 Cliffside Drive
Edinburg, VA 22824

For wire transfer donations, please contact David Ferguson at 540-325-5263 for instructions.

Thank you for helping us make Shenandoah Night to Shine a special celebration for our community!

 Yes! Shenandoah Night to Shine operates under the fiscal sponsorship of Antioch Church, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations made through Antioch Church to support Shenandoah Night to Shine are generally tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

When making your donation, please make checks payable to Antioch Church and include “Shenandoah Night to Shine” in the memo line to ensure your contribution is designated for this special event.

 All volunteers age 18 and older are required to have a completed and approved background check on file prior to attending or participating in the event, at no cost to you. This requirement applies to all adult volunteers, including first-time volunteers, parents or caregivers serving as their child's Buddy, and new vendors participating in the event.

Background check records are reviewed annually before each event, and returning volunteers may be required to complete a new background check periodically.

If we do not have a current or acceptable background check on file for you, you will be notified no later than January 15, 2027, and provided with instructions for completing the required information. No adult volunteer will be permitted to participate without a completed and approved background check.

Volunteers under age 18 are not required to complete a background check but must have a parent or legal guardian complete the consent section included in this registration form prior to participating.

Thank you for registering to volunteer for Shenandoah Night to Shine 2027!

All first-time volunteers  age 18 and older are required to complete a background check at no cost to you. If a background check is required, you will receive instructions no later than January 15, 2027. No adult volunteer will be permitted to participate without a completed and approved background check. If your background check identifies any concerns or requires further review, a member of the Shenandoah Night to Shine Executive Committee will contact you privately to discuss the matter before a final determination is made.

If you expressed interest in serving as a Buddy, you will be notified of your assignment no later than February 1, 2027. Buddy assignments are based on event needs and cannot be guaranteed.

If you have not received communication by these dates, please check your spam or junk email folder. If you still have not heard from us, please contact us so we can verify your registration and provide further instructions.

We appreciate your willingness to volunteer and look forward to seeing you on February 12, 2027!

 Volunteer arrival times vary based on assigned roles and responsibilities:

• Volunteers Without a Specific Assignment: Please arrive no later than 4:45 PM. You may be assigned to welcome and cheer on our Honored Guests along the Paparazzi Line or assist wherever additional support is needed.
• Buddy Volunteers: Please arrive no later than 5:30 PM to complete check-in, receive final instructions, and prepare to be paired with your Honored Guest.
• Volunteers Assigned to a Specific Committee or Team: Please arrive at the time designated by your Committee or Team Lead.

Please arrive on time. Every volunteer plays an important role in ensuring a welcoming, organized, and memorable evening for our Honored Guests.

Volunteer parking will be available at Shenandoah Caverns, 261 Caverns Road, Quicksburg, VA 22847. A shuttle will transport Buddy Volunteers to American Celebration on Parade. 

Please plan accordingly and allow additional time for parking and transportation.

All volunteers should report to American Celebration on Parade, where they will remain throughout the evening to support our Honored Guests and assist with event activities.

 Exceptions:

• The Yellow Barn Volunteers: Volunteers specifically assigned to The Yellow Barn should report directly to that location and follow their Team Lead's instructions.
• First Responders: First responders will provide support at both American Celebration on Parade and The Yellow Barn, moving between locations as needed.

Volunteers are encouraged to dress in festive, semi-formal attire appropriate for this special celebration. We want everyone to look their best while remaining comfortable and able to perform their assigned responsibilities.

Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended, particularly for volunteers who will be standing, walking, dancing, or assisting Honored Guests throughout the evening.

Please avoid jeans, shorts, T-shirts, athletic wear, and overly casual clothing. Volunteers should also avoid attire or footwear that may interfere with their responsibilities.

Our goal is for every volunteer to look festive, feel comfortable, and be ready to help create an unforgettable evening for our Honored Guests!

Team members are expected to assist with Buddy Registration and provide scheduled restroom coverage throughout the duration of the the event.

Why This Role Is Important:

Bathroom Attendants provide an additional measure of safety, assistance, and support for our Honored Guests. Responsibilities include monitoring restroom access, assisting Buddies when a guest needs light mobility support, such as help navigating with a walker or wheelchair, and ensuring assistance is available when needed. Personal care assistance remains the responsibility of the assigned Buddy, Group Home staff, or caregiver, as appropriate.

Bathroom Attendant Shifts:

• 6:00–7:00 PM
• 7:00–8:00 PM
• 8:00–9:00 PM

Team Coverage & Rotation:

At least one Bathroom Attendant must be stationed at the designated restroom area at all times during these shifts. Please coordinate with your fellow team members when rotating, taking a break, or stepping away. Never leave the restroom area unattended until another team member has arrived to provide coverage.

Our Buddy Team will contact you by email, telephone, or text no later than February 1, 2027, with your assignment, arrival instructions, and important event details. 

Please ensure your contact information is accurate and monitor your communications as the event approaches.  If you are unable to fulfill your Buddy commitment, please notify us as soon as possible so we can make alternative arrangements for your Honored Guest. 

If you have been selected to serve as a Buddy, you will be notified of your assignment no later than February 1, 2027. Assigned Buddies should arrive by 5:30-5:45PM, unless otherwise instructed.

If you have not received a Buddy assignment by February 1, please arrive no later than 4:45 PM and be prepared to serve wherever needed. You will also remain on the Buddy Standby List in the event an assigned Buddy is unable to attend or an additional Buddy is needed. Upon arrival, please check in at Buddy Registration, where you may be asked to remain on standby. If you are not needed immediately, please proceed to the Paparazzi Lines, on both sides of the red carpet, to enthusiastically welcome and cheer on our Honored Guests as they arrive.

Please check with Kim Cassford or David Ferguson for your next assignment or further instructions.

We appreciate your flexibility and willingness to help make this a memorable evening for our Honored Guests!

Being a Buddy is a special and meaningful commitment. Each Buddy is paired one-on-one with an Honored Guest to provide companionship, encouragement, supervision, and support throughout the evening.

Please review the following expectations carefully. If you are unable to fulfill these responsibilities, contact us in advance so we can identify another volunteer role that may be a better fit.

1. Commitment & Attendance: Your Honored Guest is counting on you. If you are unable to attend or experience an emergency, notify the volunteer leadership team immediately so a replacement Buddy can be arranged.
2. Attire & Comfort: Dress appropriately for a special prom-night celebration while wearing comfortable shoes. Expect to walk, dance, and participate in activities throughout the evening.
3. Continuous Supervision: Remain with your assigned Honored Guest throughout the entire evening, from the initial Buddy match until the guest is safely released to their parent or caregiver. Never leave your Honored Guest unattended.
4. Activities & Participation: Accompany and support your Honored Guest through the red carpet, photographs, dinner, dancing, and activities of their choosing, such as limousine rides, shoeshines, hair and makeup, and other experiences.
5. Restroom Assistance: If your Honored Guest needs to use the restroom, escort them to the restroom entrance and follow the event's assistance procedures. Remain nearby and be available when they return.
6. If You Need Assistance: Contact your Buddy Team Lead if you need support or must briefly step away for any reason. Appropriate      supervision must be arranged before you leave your Honored Guest.
7. Emergencies & Safety: If your Honored Guest experiences a medical or safety emergency or having a anxiety issue, immediately notify an on-site First Responder. Trained emergency personnel will be available throughout the event. Benelli, our service-dog, will also be on-site to provide comfort and support as appropriate.
8. Honor Your Guest's Preferences: Every Honored Guest is unique. Some may want to dance all evening, participate in every activity, or simply relax and enjoy the celebration. Be patient, encouraging, attentive, and respectful of their choices and comfort level. Your role is to help make their evening joyful, inclusive, and memorable.

As a Buddy, you will be paired one-on-one with an Honored Guest, playing an essential role in making their Night to Shine experience safe, joyful, and unforgettable. Your commitment includes providing continuous companionship, supervision, encouragement, and support throughout the entire evening.

Your Responsibilities Include:

• Arrival & Registration: If you are not assigned as a Group Home Buddy, please arrive by 5:30 PM -5:45 PM  at the American Celebration on Parade front entrance and check in at Buddy Registration before the event begins. Our Buddy Match Team will coordinate your introduction and pairing with your Honored Guest.  Buddy match begins at 5:50 PM 6:00 PM. Please allow sufficient time for parking, shuttle transportation, and check-in. Once matched, you will accompany your Honored Guest down the red carpet and throughout their Night to Shine experience.
• Red Carpet Experience: Accompany or assist your Honored Guest down the red carpet and capture a special memory with photos beneath the photo arch.
• Dinner & Entertainment: Enjoy dinner together, dancing, and activities selected by your Honored Guest, including shoe shining, hair and makeup, limousine rides, and other special experiences.
• Continuous Supervision: Remain with your Honored Guest throughout the entire event, providing attentive companionship and support. If you need to use the restroom or briefly step away, contact your Buddy Team Lead to arrange for another authorized volunteer to assume supervision before leaving your Honored Guest. Honored Guests must never be left unattended.
• Departure: Your responsibilities conclude only after your Honored Guest has been safely reunited with and released to their parent or caregiver through the designated departure process.

Preparing for the Evening

Please arrive prepared for the entire celebration! We recommend wearing comfortable shoes, using the restroom before arriving, and being ready to remain actively engaged with your Honored Guest throughout the evening.

 An announcement will be made when the dismissal process begins, typically between 8:15 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., following the beach ball drop. Honored Guests will be dismissed on a first-in, first-out basis under the direction of event personnel to ensure a safe and orderly departure. Each Honored Guest is welcome to take a beach ball home as a keepsake of the evening.

When directed, accompany your Honored Guest to the designated lobby area and collect their takeaway gifts, typically a T-shirt and gift bag.

Remain with your Honored Guest until they are safely reunited with their parents or caregiver through the established dismissal process. First, Responders and event personnel will assist as needed.

Please do not leave the event until your Honored Guest has been properly released.

Honored Guests attending individually (not residing in a group home) should arrive at 6:00 PM.

To ensure a smooth, safe, and welcoming arrival for everyone, the following staggered arrival schedule has been established:

Honored Guests Schedule for Arrival

5:00 PM - ResCare / CAV Group Home 

5:15 PM - GoodLife Group Home 

5:15 PM - Shenandoah Community Residents Group Home

5:45 PM - Shen-Paco Group Homes and Shen-Paco Individuals

5:45 PM - SEARCH Group Home 

6:00 PM – Individuals 

We kindly ask everyone to arrive at their designated time. Directional signage and police officers will be on-site to assist with traffic flow and ensure a smooth arrival at American Celebration on Parade.

Departure and Dismissal Process

An announcement will be made toward the end of the evening, typically between 8:15 PM and 8:30 PM, outlining the dismissal process. Departure will begin following the beach ball drop. Honored Guests will be dismissed in the order they arrived, following a first-in, first-out process, under the direction of event personnel to ensure a safe, orderly departure. Honored Guests are welcome to take a beach ball home as a keepsake.