Volunteers of all ages came together Saturday to give local special-needs adults a fun time with music, dancing, and more at the fourth annual “Snowflake Ball.”

The event was held at the Kirbo Center, with more than 75 special-needs adults in attendance. The participants enjoyed a promenade, free photo, and lots of dancing and refreshments.

“We do a lot of athletic events with Special Olympics, like the track-and-field competition and the bowling days,” said Jim Beck, public relations and fundraising chairman for the Decatur County Special Olympics, who hosted the Ball. “This is something different, and it’s designed to give these adults the chance to enjoy a dance like a high-school prom. Many of them didn’t get a chance to participate at their school dances, so this gives them that opportunity.”

The event would not have been successful without the countless volunteers. In addition to Special Olympics volunteers, students from local schools served as escorts for the promenade, Bill Searcy was the music DJ, and Tommy Hawkins took photographs for the participants.

Taylor Strickland read a short description of each participant’s outfits for the evening, making them feel like they were part of a fashion show. Members of the Pilot Club of Bainbridge assisted with the refreshments.

“There are a lot of people who give their time and talents to make this night a success,” Beck said.

Jimmy Brown smiled widely when asked if he enjoyed the Snowflake Ball each year.

“I like it a lot,” he said. “I like the food, and I love the dancing.”

Amanda Kimbrel also agreed that the night is a special event.

“I like the dancing and getting new clothes,” she said. “I look forward to it every year.”