| 567 Words | 2.5 Minute Read |

Completely out of breath and completely traumatized, I only wonder what this girl thought of me as I asked her one of the most important questions of my high school years, “Will you go to prom with me?”

The moment was coming. I finally got the nerve to ask the leading actress of the spring musical to Senior prom. As a step toward manhood, I was going to have that moment fantasied about in every teenager movie. But naturally shy, I wanted the perfect opportunity to ask.

That day, I was eagle-eyed on my target. The drumbeat of my heart quickened with every minute. But procrastinating too long, I finally saw her take off for her car. Boldness built in me, it was now or never. I proceeded to chase after her, heart pounding louder. As the front doors of the school closed behind me, the bush next to me shook in vigorous terror. Heart now leaping out of my throat.

I may or may not have let out a little squeal as a MASSIVE squirrel ran right across my path taking me completely off guard. By the time I caught up to my dream prom date, I had to ask for a minute to catch my breath. Thankfully, she responded with quick yet quiet “yes” to my nerve-racking question. Mission success.

This story starts to paint the picture how prom is one of the most anticipated and memorable nights of the year. It is often fanaticized about and always elaborately planned. The money poured into dresses, flowers, dinners, etc for one night reaches into triple figures. I must have spent close to $300 for my prom night.

But what about the teenagers that do not have the money to make prom special?

Northern Colorado Youth for Christ (NCYFC) asked this question. For over 10 years, NCYFC has put on a Free Prom for the youth in our community. NCYFC is dedicated to make the night memorable for the youth that attend. They go all out providing a red carpet, a sponsorship wall with paparazzi photos and interviews, food, a DJ, all tied with an elaborate theme. They pamper the girls, offering free prom dresses and to do their hair and makeup. It often rivals the local school dances. And that's the point. They want the night to be special for those that don't have a prom or cannot afford prom. It has become one of the most anticipated nights for NCYFC. Over a hundred local youth come to enjoy the special night.

Watch the youth's excitement from previous proms in the videos below.

What Prom is all about! from NCYFC .

Prom 2015 Fun Interviews from NCYFC .

How Can You Help?

This year, the Free Prom is on May 13th at NCYFC’s campus. It is open to every local high school student despite income level.

Have an old prom dress? NCYFC takes donated prom dresses to give out to the girls. Chaperones and business sponsors are also vital for the night. Email info@ncyfc.org for more information.

Lastly, you can refer a friend to us, Union Colony Insurance, for insurance and we will donate to NCYFC for every referral. We have sponsored the Free Prom for the past 3 years!