'It’s a night where youth can feel like themselves'
By Deborah Rose
Everyone needs community.
The New Milford Youth Agency will provide that and more at its upcoming Pride Prom.
The semi-formal event will feature dinner and dancing at The Maxx, 94 Railroad St.
Sara Wendrow, a Youth Agency social worker, said youth need “to express their voices and be heard and seen” and this event affords them that opportunity.
This year’s event, to be held Saturday, May 4, from 6 to 10 p.m., is the third annual prom.
It is open to youth in grades 8-12.
Wendrow said the idea of a Pride Prom came about through her work with the Youth Agency’s former LGBTQ+ Group.
“It’s a night where youth can feel like themselves,” she said. “Dress how they want, act how they want, not be judged by it.”
Wendrow emphasized the need for youth to have a “safe place, an emotionally and mentally safe space where they feel like they belong.”
She said in past attendees have described the event as “the best night of their lives” and “magical.”
Several local vendors and businesses will be a part of the event, too.
Dinner will be catered by Italia Mia, Emily Mygatt will photograph the event, baker Sarah Goncalves will provide cupcakes, and a DJ will serve up the entertainment.
Funding for the prom comes from a Pride in the Hills grant through the Connecticut Community Foundation.
Wendrow said she looks forward to this year’s event because she and other staff enjoy seeing youth be “their authentic self and celebrate their relationships and self-expression in an affirming and safe space.”
Tickets to the prom are $10. Registration is required at https://www.myyouthagency.com
For more information, call Wendrow at 860-210-2030.
