First-time prom is a first-rate story

This is not my story. A woman told me the following story after a recent meeting. When she finished, I was taken with the very good side of humanity.

Jeanette was the activities director at a nursing home many years ago. Most of the residents did not finish high school because they were needed to support their families. Jeanette realized that these people had never experienced a prom.

She and her staff set out to see that anyone who was able to and wanted to had the opportunity to attend a prom during his or her lifetime.

Believe it or not, the staff decorated a social room in the building to look like a high school gym. The color theme was blue. On the banquet tables was punch and treats for those attending the event.

Jeanette and her staff made corsages for the ladies and boutonnieres for the gentlemen. Everyone worked quite hard to see that the men and woman were dressed to “the nines.” Barber and hairdresser appointments were made, nails were polished and shoes were shined.

One could feel the excitement throughout the building as the afternoon of the prom drew near.  However, one woman approached Jeanette and said, “There are so many more women than men. What are we supposed to do, dance with ourselves?” 

Jeanette looked at the woman and smiled saying, “Not to worry, all will be fine.”

Jeanette had enlisted male staff members to don suits and boutonnieres. They were to attend the prom and dance with the women. As far as Jeanette was concerned, this was the best “first-time prom” ever.

Isn’t this a great story?  It is very nice to know that there are many people out there who care about others.

MAY-RONNY ZEIDMAN is executive director of the Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center.