Sad to say, many young people with special needs have never experienced what it’s like to take to the dance floor for a prom-like experience.

But they certainly had their “Night to Shine” at Newport Marriott’s Grand Ballroom Friday night, Feb. 12. More than 200 volunteers and nearly as many guests with special needs turned out to the event.

Bob and Vicki Dyl of Portsmouth were asked to take the lead on making this special night a reality. About a decade ago, Mr. Dyl started up the Challenger League here to give players with special needs — including his son, Caleb — a chance to play competitive baseball.

The program has grown by leaps and bounds — a senior league was added last year — and now the athletes play under the Rhode Island District 2 Challenger Division. That organization was one of the sponsors of “Night to Shine” along with Crosspoint Church, of which the Dyls are members, and the Tim Tebow Foundation. Dozens of other churches and volunteers hosted similar events around the country.

For Friday’s local event, Ms. Dyl and some friends collected nearly 100 gowns throughout Newport County that were offered to those girls with special needs who attended the event. About 50 gowns were given away, and fittings were offered at Crosspoint Church and at the Dyls’ home.

Every guest Friday night entered the dance on a red carpet and once inside, they received more VIP treatment.

And why not? Everyone deserves to have their “Night to Shine.”