Recently, on a rainy evening, a team of dedicated community activists transformed a local middle school gymnasium into a dance hall for senior citizens from Central Brooklyn to party like it’s 1959 at a prom for Brooklynites 60 and older. The gym at MS 35 in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn was replete with dinner, décor and a DJ as seniors danced the night away to compete for the titles of King and Queen of the Prom.
“This prom is a way to celebrate the lives of so many wonderful seniors in Brooklyn,” said Barbara Williams, founder of Pearls for Her, the nonprofit that stages the prom each year. “The prom allows us an opportunity to speak with seniors, hear their stories and learn a few dance moves. It is our chance to say ‘Thank you. We haven’t forgotten you.’”
The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the King and Queen, who danced all night long to win their crowns. Pearls for Her in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Community Affairs, City Council member Robert E. Cornegy Jr. and the Brooklyn NAACP presented the rulers of the dance floor with golden crowns.
“Seniors are the monarchs of our communities,” said Kevin Durant of KLK Entertainment. “I am honored to be a sponsor to an event that not only lets our seniors know that we care about them but also brings joy to their lives.”
In addition to the great partnership, this event was supported by many generous sponsors: Adena Consulting Inc., Bedford Hall, The Brooklyn Club, Brooklyn Exposure, 500 Men Making a Difference, KLK Entertainment, Richard Beavers Gallery and SCO of Family Services.