Toms River gala ‘just the kickoff’ to include people with disabilities in the fun
Friday night was special for David Barozzie. The 15-year-old from Toms River got to dress up, make a grand entrance along a red carpet and enjoy the food and music of a gala with all the trappings. He was feted like royalty, and he wasn’t alone.
David, who has Down syndrome, was among 120 teens and adults with special needs who were honored guests at “Night to Shine.” Presbyterian Church of Toms River hosted the event, which took place simultaneously at hundreds of churches around the world.
“For my son to go to a prom like this is unreal,” David’s mother Jenn Barozzie said. “It’s a beautiful thing.”