When it's prom night, you might think that every kid has their dream situation: they're going to the dance with someone special and celebrating their high school milestones with their friends! But some teens struggle getting these important moments in life; for them Bailey Kay Hutson is an inspiration. She believes everyone deserves recognition for what he or she achieves even if circumstances don't always allow success on surfaces like driver’s licenses and graduation ceremonies - which can seem far-off or unattainable when you have a child with special needs. Bailey Kay knows exactly how that feels, as she was born with Spina Bifida and has been overcoming obstacles her entire life. Bailey Kay may be a tiny figure in a wheelchair, but make no mistake, she is mighty and dreams BIG!
Turning a Dream into Reality
Bailey Kay was named Homecoming Queen her senior year at Dripping Springs High School in 2015. This event inspired her to create a night where special needs children, from 9th grade to 100+ years old, who have not had the opportunity to enjoy a special night like prom, can SHINE. An event tailored for them, complete with fancy dresses and suits, dancing and karaoke, food, friends, and fun!
That's where Dripping Springs Elite Real Estate Professionals came in. As part of our organization's mission to give back to the community and make Dripping Springs better through our gifts of time, money and service, we took the lead to organize and pull resources together.
"We are honored to be a part of this event and helping make this night special for all who attended," said Melissa Roberts, member and chair of DS Elite's Charitable Giving Committee. "This could not have been possible without all the sponsors, volunteers, parents, friends and family that came out and supported the dance. THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts!"
It Was Their Night to Shine
Dripping Springs Ranch Park Event Center was converted into a ballroom of sorts, adorned with sparkling lights, balloons, streamers, red carpet, photo booth, tiaras, and crowns – the perfect backdrop for these special attendees. This evening was built on one woman’s dream but came together with love from the community. The evening delivered as promised with dancing all night, karaoke, food, friends, family, and fun! It was truly a night to SHINE as evident by what some guests shared: "I had the honor of attending my first ever dance tonight!" said one attendee. "It was so much fun and I can't wait until next year!" Another added, “The food was delicious but what really sticks with me is how happy everyone looked when they left."
They say that the joy is in giving, and we certainly experienced that with this community outreach project. And we are reminded by Bailey Kay herself, who has proven time and again, that we are only limited by what our mind tells us.
