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The Studio in Downtown Troy will be transformed into a winter ball next Friday to celebrate people with special needs in Pike County and the surrounding area.

Laney Kelley, coordinator of the event, said it is important to offer special events that make sure people with special needs are included even after they have graduated high school.

“There are not a lot of events in Pike County to include people who have special needs outside of school,” Kelley said.

The third annual ball, hosted by Charles Henderson High School, will be a semi formal event for honored guests of all ages that have cognitive or physical special needs. The guests will be treated to a lead-out followed by refreshments and music, and the crowning of Winter Ball king and queen.

“It’s always something really special,” Kelley said. “We’re hoping this year is our best ball yet.”

The event will get underway at 5 p.m.  on Friday, Jan. 24, and the dancing will continue until 8:30 p.m.

Registration is free, and Kelley said guests can register for free through Thursday.

“We’re not turning anyone away,” Kelley said. “I’m not typing up the guest list until Friday morning, so any guests can register up until then. We are doing t-shirt registration after the ball this year so we can do that.”

To register for the ball, guests can stop by the CHHS office to pick up a registration form or email Kelley at kelleyle@studetns.troyschools.net to have an online form sent to them. For more information or assistance obtaining a form, call the school office at 334-566-3510.

The school is also seeking volunteers for the event.

“We’re looking for someone who is kind and compassionate and willing to lend a hand to someone,” Kelley said. “Our volunteers’ main job is to keep our guests happy, helping fix food, dancing with them and just willing to help.”

The deadline to register as a volunteer is Jan. 20 to give the school time to run background checks, Kelley said.

Registration for volunteers can also be picked up in the CHHS office or sent via email.

Donations are still needed to help support the Winter Ball. Donations can be dropped off at the CHHS office during normal business hours.