Cummerbunds, up-dos and corsages were all the rage at the Park Ultra Lounge for Friday night's "Prom at the Park." The second annual event benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Sacramento was hosted by its Young Professionals Committee.

The patio was decorated with balloons, making the atmosphere reminiscent of a teen-age dance. But the scene was far from a high school gym covered in streamers. The lighting was romantic and since the crowd was 21-plus, the drinks were spiked.

Antonya Williams has been a Big Sister for two years and involved with the YPC since its inception eighteen months ago. The idea for an adult prom came from her Little Sister, who was struggling to graduate from high school but dreamed of going to her prom.

"One of our main goals is to get at-risk kids to graduate high school," Williams said. "Throwing a prom benefit goes along with that theme." Because of the age restriction, no Little Brothers or Sisters attended the party.

A photographer with a backdrop snapped shots of couples as they walked through the door. Kyle Jones and his date, Nicole Micheli, posed for the camera and ordered wallet-sized photos to hand out to their friends.

"It's for a good cause and it's another reason to get dressed up," said Jones. "And we're having a blast."

At last year's event, a prom king and queen were named after there was some confusion with the voting. Reigning king Raul Martinez is a Big Brother and member of the YPC. He said that this year voting will be done using social media after the event.

"We are going to post pictures of nominees on Facebook and try to get attendees to vote online."

The YPC is planning a wine tasting called The Big Wine at the end of the summer. Randall Echevarria, who's been with Big Brothers Big Sisters less than a year, is helping organize the event.

"About six months ago, I was looking to volunteer and (Big Brothers Big Sisters) needed help," he said. "It feels good to donate my time to something that really makes a direct impact on local youth."

For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters, visit www.bbbs-sac.org. To see prom photos, visit www.promatthepark.com.
 

Photos:

1. Young Professionals Committee of Big Brothers Big Sisters

2. The crowd

3. Randall Echevarria and Monte Hudock

4. Jimmy Valoria and Jessica Apadoca

5. Friends Karlie Jones and Kyle Jones pose for the camera