Teens host prom for people with disabilities

VIRGINIA BEACH -- Many of the participants at the recent “Friendable Prom” may not remember their high school prom, or they didn’t even attend.

That’s what made the Friendable Prom, held at Tallwood High  on May 14, such a spectacular occasion. 

Sponsored by the Mary F. Buckley Foundation and organized by the Noble Teens, this is the second year the school hosted the prom for people, including those well past their high school years, with head injuries and a variety of disabilities.

The commons came alive with music, dancing, food and smiling faces during this year’s prom. The theme: “Dancing with the Stars.”

“It’s just a joy,” said Matt Buckley, who started the foundation in 2005 in memory of his late wife. “Mary was a social worker who worked with people with disabilities. I knew some good needed to come out of the tragedy.”

Buckley created a social club that meets twice a month in an effort to reach out to the greater Hampton Roads community.

The idea for the prom came about when members of the Noble Teens, which is a sub group of the nonprofit charitable organization The Noblemen, were in search of a project.

Susan Motley, English teacher and Noble Teens adviser, said the students are all interested in doing noble deeds. “These kids are dedicated to this event,” Motley said.

Arianna Christopher of Green Run wanted to be a part of the Noble Teens because of the prom.

“This is the reason right here,” Arianna, 17, said as she held the door for the guests. “It makes us feel great, and it makes them feel great.”

Monica Vastano, another Noble Teen member, said they started planning the event in January and worked hard since. It all paid off that night.

“Seeing the looks on their faces touches my heart,” Monica said.

Guests such as Michael Johnson, 27 and his date, Wanda Beasley, checked in at the desk, and then sashayed down the red carpet before hitting the dance floor.

“We like to dance together,” said Beasley, 44. “Dancing is the best part.”

Johnson agreed and said, “We want to get crazy, get partied up and get excited.”

Excitement was the main emotion floating through the air. Karla Norton, 55, was excited to show off the sapphire blue gown someone donated for her to wear.  

“These kids are so wonderful to give us this, and we look forward to it,” said Norton, who was last year’s prom queen. “I’m the luckiest girl in the world.”

Sandra J. Pennecke is a freelance writer who covers Virginia Beach for the Beacon section of The Virginian-Pilot.