Full of festive and enthusiastic participants, the Still Waters Ministry Annual Christmas Dance was a major success yet again in 2024. The Still Waters Ministry describes in their mission statement that they are composed of “volunteers who have a heart for people with special needs, ranging from elementary school-age to adult.” They organize a multitude of fun, educational, and interactive activities all year long, but without a doubt, one of the largest, fan-favorites is the Christmas Dance. Hosted at Purcellville Baptist Church (PBC), this event aims to create a magical evening for everyone in attendance, volunteers and guests alike. This year, the ministry hosted a sock drive as a way to receive donations during the event. Youth at Purcellville Baptist Church, as well as several Woodgrove students, participated in the set-up, serving, and clean-up of this event.
One of the event leaders, Henry Lough from PBC, shared, “My favorite thing about this dance is seeing the awe of the attendees’ faces. We put in so much work so they can feel loved, and there is a look of joy when they witness the decorations, volunteers, food and music.” Not only does this event provide a festive evening, but it also provides a lasting and meaningful impact on those involved. Having just moved to the Loudoun County area this school year, Woodgrove sophomore Ellie Handschuh shared that this dance helped her “meet new people and make so many new friends.” She continued, “[The dance] positively impacted my confidence and willingness to talk to others more.”
Henry Lough expressed that one of his students had a similar experience, saying, “He shared with me that he found this dance to be more enjoyable than his homecoming or prom, because sometimes he goes to those feeling insecure about what people think of him. At the Still Waters dance, the attendees did not make him feel like that at all. He was inspired and wants to live a life of not caring what people think.”
With Chick-Fil-A, congo lines, new friendships, and even a guest appearance by Santa Clause, this dance was a success yet again. The best part is, everyone is welcome, and it will be returning once again during the holiday season in 2025.