Joy Prom 

Just As I Am, the disability ministry of Western Avenue Baptist Church, will be hosting Joy Prom 2022 on May 13. This is an event for individuals with special needs ages 14 and up and also for their families.  Our guests will treated to a free evening of fun activities including photo booths, dancing, pamper stations and entertainment. Registration for our guests is now open! Also, we need many volunteers as there are many ways to serve at this wonderful event. Volunteer registration is available at the link below.

Guest Registration

Guest Registration for the 2022 Joy Prom is now open! Follow the link below to register. 
 

 

Registration is First Come, First Served. Once the maximum number of participants is reached, online registration will be closed. At that point, anyone interested in attending will be put on a waiting list. Please understand that while we would like for all to be able to participate, there are limitations to the number of people safely allowed in the building, etc... REGISTER EARLY!  

 

For more information, contact Andy Lackey.
 

FAQ

Why does WABC host Joy Prom?

We believe that every person is made in the image of God and that each life should be valued and celebrated. Joy Prom is our church’s way of spotlighting a community of people who are often overlooked in our society. It is our desire that every guest experiences the love of God at Joy Prom and that the joy they feel will last long after the event is over!

What can I expect at Joy Prom?

Expect to have fun! Joy Prom begins with registration, meeting your chaperone for the evening (unless you are bringing your own date or require a caregiver 24/7), photo booth and a red-carpet entrance where each guest’s name is announced and the paparazzi (volunteers from our church & the community) welcome you by clapping and cheering. From there, the guys can visit the shoe shine room and the gals the glitz and glamour room. Light refreshments and an assortment of delicious, layered cakes will start at 6:00 PM.  Music and dancing will start at 7:00PM.

How do I get to the Statesville Civic Center?

Will food/drink be served?

Yes, we will offer light refreshments and an assortment of delicious, layered cakes along with drinks such as tea, punch and water for you and one other person you choose (caregiver/date/chaperone). If you have allergies or dietary concerns, you can note that when registering online and we will do our best to accommodate you.

What time does Joy Prom start and end?

Doors for guest registration open at 5:30. Do not arrive early as we will not start registering guests until 5:30. The Joy Prom will run from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Is Joy Prom a drop-off event?

Yes and No! We ask that a parent or caregiver be present with each guest or group of guests during the registration process. If the guest has a caregiver, date or has requested a chaperone, the family is invited to relax in our hospitality room or use this time to enjoy a few hours to your liking. 

 

Please understand that while we would like for all family members & friends to be able to experience the Joy Prom, there are limitations to the number of people safely allowed in the building. 

 

*Please note that if a guest has a special medical, communication or behavioral issue which necessitates one-on-one or 24-hour care, their caretaker must accompany them throughout the evening.  The caretaker will be considered their “chaperone” for the evening.

Why do I have to sign a release form for photos/videos?

We ask that every parent/caregiver sign a release form for the guest(s) they bring to Joy Prom. We use these pictures and videos to promote future Joy Proms as well as share highlights from the event throughout the year to our church body and in the community.

Where can I access pictures from Joy Prom?

Each guest will leave with a professional photograph of themselves with their date. Also, free pictures of the event will be posted online on our Joy Prom Facebook page.

How can I support Joy Prom?

Joy Prom would not be possible without the support of local businesses and volunteers. If you’d like to speak with someone about donating a product or service to Joy Prom, please email Andy Lackey. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to Joy Prom, make your check out to WABC & in the memo line write “Joy Prom”. You can drop it by the church office or mail it to WABC, 1206 Museum Road, Statesville, NC 28625.  There are many opportunities to volunteer your time on the night of event.

Does WABC offer any other programs throughout the year for individuals with special needs?

Yes! Just as I Am is our special needs ministry and we meet every Sunday morning at 9:45AM. All ages and levels of ability are welcome. Just as I Am also hosts several Respite nights throughout the year. You can email Andy Lackey for more information.

Joy Prom 2022 Volunteer Registration

Thank you for your interest in volunteering for Joy Prom 2022! We need 300+ volunteers to make this event possible for the special needs community. Joy Prom is scheduled for May 13th, 2022. All volunteers must be 9th grade and older to participate AND must attend one training session. 

 

It is the most rewarding job! All training is provided. You just need a willing heart!

Thanks for your interest in volunteering and joining us for Joy Prom 2022! 

 

When will I be able to register to be a volunteer?

Online volunteer registration will begin Monday, April 11th.

What will my job assignment be?

We will make every effort to place you in your first choice you selected. Keep in mind, some areas will require special training.

Will there be mandatory training?

Yes, we will have a training meeting for our volunteers. Though we would encourage all volunteers to attend, we certainly understand there may be conflicts. Therefore, please note that even if you cannot make the meeting, you can still volunteer for the Joy Prom. We will be in contact with those not able to attend the training with needed details and the expected time of arrival on the day of the prom.

What do I need to wear?

It will vary depending on what area you will be working in. For example, servers will wear black pants and white shirts, hostesses/paparazzi will wear dressy attire, hosts/paparazzi will wear suit & tie, dress pants & collared shirt or tux. Your team leader will let you know more details at the mandatory training session.

Can I get service hours?

Yes, please see Andy Lackey or August Mayberry to sign your paper.

What time do I need to be there?

Your team leader will inform you at the mandatory training session.

Do I have to stay the entire time?

You are expected to stay for the duration of your assignment.

Will I get a break?

Yes, we will have a volunteer break room. Your team leader will let you know when it is appropriate to take a break. Light refreshments and drinks will be provided but feel free to bring your own if you have dietary restrictions.

Can I have more than one job?

Absolutely! Please note in the comment section if you are willing to do more than one job. This will depend on your specific assignment and if the logistics work out.

I am unable to volunteer but would like to donate monetarily toward this special evening. What is the process? Is it tax deductible?

If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to Joy Prom, make your check out to WABC and in the memo line write “Joy Prom”. You can drop it by the church office or mail it to WABC, 1206 Museum Road, Statesville, NC 28625.