PROM

Dreams came true for adults with intellectual disabilities as they attended their first prom

BY DAYANA SHIPLETT

On Friday, June 17, at 6:30 pm Pathways Adult Learning Center fulfilled a dream for 60 students with intellectual and developmental disabilities who attended the dance. It was a memorable night, especially for students who had never attended prom. The night was filled with lots of dancing and joyful hearts.

When students arrived at prom, they looked like kings and queens. As they entered, they walked on the sparkly blue carpet and were received by flashing cameras and the smiling faces of Pathways staff and volunteers. Female students received a beautiful corsage, and male students received a boutonniere. Then they took fun photos at the photobooth and headed to the dance floor, where the music was energetic, and there were several options of delicious desserts and drinks. Most students never left the dance floor, but those that did either took a break to sit down and chat with friends or they went to a fun activity room where they could participate in a karaoke performance, create a sensory bottle, or sand art.

Pathways student Ethan shared that he is already looking forward to prom next year because he had a lot of fun this year dancing with his sister and friends, and he liked the theme of the prom, “Under the Sea,” and enjoyed taking photos with Pathways staff.

If you would like to help sponsor this wonderful event for 2023, you can contact Pathways Program Manager, Lori Williamson, at lwilliamson@pathwaysok.org or call 918-859-0060.

The mission of Pathways is to provide a unique Christian program dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for adults with intellectual disabilities. Pathways provides in-person enrichment classes in Tulsa, and provides virtual classes to students from all over the world.

Students danced the night away with joyful hearts.

Students get their hair and make up done.

Pathways Adult Learning Center

CENTRAL PARK COMMUNITY CENTER 4102 E 61ST ST | TULSA, OK (918) 859-0060 | PATHWAYSOK.ORG