It’s never too late
Salvation Army Corps-Ocala hosts special prom event for senior citizens.
Maria Lopez, left, and Yolanda Cantero, right, dance together during the Senior Prom at the Salvation Army on Northeast 14th Street in Ocala, Fla. on Thursday, June 25, 2026. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2026.
If it takes a village to raise a child, then what does it take to throw a prom for senior citizens? Lots of willing hands, helpers and sponsors.
After the Salvation Army Corps-Ocala announced a few weeks ago that it wanted to put on the event—which took place June 25 at the organization’s administration building at 2901 NE 14th St., Ocala—the response was heart-warming and fulfilling.
“The community has responded to the announcement of this unique event with donations of food, decorations, volunteers and sponsorships. Over 100 senior citizens living in The Salvation Army’s Evangeline Booth Garden Apartments as well as three other HUD-supported senior living communities in Ocala will be attending the prom,” said Maureen Quinlan, volunteer coordinator/community relations for the Ocala Corps in an email message on June 23.
“Right after we announced Senior Prom, the staff received calls and emails from individuals and companies wanting to get involved. I believe the interest is a desire to help this vulnerable population experience something different or a childhood milestone that was missed,” Major Jason Smith, Ocala-FL Corps Officer, stated in the email.
Many of the attendees told staff that they never attended a prom. The evening will focus on giving the prom attendees socialization, fellowship and good memories, Quinlan noted.
“The volunteers involved want to show our seniors love and an evening of joy,” Smith offered.
Quinlan said that among the many business sponsors were Piesano’s Pizza, Florida Food Bank, Magnolia Walk Apartments, The Rock Program, Vitas Hospice and Jungle Cross Fit. In addition, community agencies The Rock Program as well as the Marion County Sherrif’s Department donated formal dresses and suits.
To learn more about this local nonprofit, go to ocala.salvationarmyflorida.org
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