MONROE, Mich. (WTVG) – A night many people only get once is being recreated for someone who never had it. A woman is finally getting her prom at 70 years old and her community is coming together to make sure it’s a night she’ll never forget.
For 70-year-old Glenda Bourbina, it’s something she never expected to experience.
“And I’m excited and nervous all wrapped into one this is one of the fanciest dresses I have ever had in my entire life,” Bourbina said.
Bourbina married young, started a family and life moved fast, leaving many teenage milestones behind.
That missing moment became the inspiration for an adult prom fundraiser benefiting veterans at VFW Post 1138 in Monroe.
“And I know he’s just looking down and saying Emily thank you for honoring the veterans because he always told me that veterans are over looked.” Bourbina said.
The night also carries personal meaning. It honors Bourbina’s late husband, Joe, a U.S. Army veteran who served during the Vietnam era and died in 2022.
“One thing that always bothered me, he said well I feel like I shouldn’t be honored because I never went to Nam. It’s like Joe you gave two years of your life right and you didn’t have a choice on that,” Bourbina said.
His service and the sacrifices of other veterans are the heart of why this event exists.
Alexis Moore, operating director for Cornerstone Care Giving in Monroe, Michigan, said this night is a celebration for everyone.
“All the things she would of got and more tonight but not just her, all people. Because of a war time or couldn’t attend your prom we want you to experience that now,” Moore said.
Organizers said the goal is to raise funds for veterans and their families in need while also giving guests a night filled with celebration and connection.
Emily Ferguson, operating director for Cornerstone Care Giving in Toledo, Ohio, said all proceeds will support veterans.
“All of that is going to be going to the veterans so here at the VFW not only do they help veterans but veteran families, children, anyone who may be in need,” Ferguson said.
For Bourbina, the night came full circle when she was crowned prom queen.
The Story Behind the Prom
Glenda Bourbina’s journey to her prom began with a simple desire to relive a moment she missed out on. As a young woman, life moved quickly, and she never had the chance to attend her high school prom. This gap in her life remained unfulfilled until now, as her community stepped in to make her dream come true.
The event was not just about Glenda; it was also a way to honor her late husband, Joe, a veteran who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. His legacy played a significant role in inspiring the fundraiser, which aims to support veterans and their families.
A Night to Remember
The prom was held at VFW Post 1138 in Monroe, a place that holds special significance for the community. It was chosen as the venue to pay tribute to veterans and to create an atmosphere of celebration and remembrance.
Participants were encouraged to dress up and enjoy the evening, complete with music, dancing, and a formal prom setting. The event brought together people from different backgrounds, all united by the shared goal of supporting veterans and creating unforgettable memories.
Supporting Veterans
The fundraiser was organized by Cornerstone Care Giving, a local organization dedicated to helping those in need. The event aimed to raise funds for veterans and their families, ensuring that they receive the support they deserve.
All proceeds from the prom will go directly to the VFW, which provides assistance to veterans and their loved ones. This includes financial aid, resources for families, and support for children affected by a parent’s service.
A Celebration of Life
For Glenda, the night was more than just a prom—it was a celebration of life, love, and legacy. As she walked down the aisle, she felt the weight of the past and the joy of the present. Her late husband, Joe, was remembered throughout the evening, and his spirit was felt in every moment.
The event also highlighted the importance of remembering those who have served our country. By coming together, the community showed its appreciation for the sacrifices made by veterans and their families.
Looking Ahead
As the night came to an end, Glenda left with a sense of fulfillment and gratitude. She knew that her prom was not just for her, but for others who had missed out on similar experiences. The event served as a reminder that it’s never too late to make dreams come true.
The success of the fundraiser has inspired plans for future events, ensuring that the spirit of the prom continues to live on. It has also strengthened the bond within the community, showing that together, they can make a difference in the lives of others.
In the end, Glenda’s prom was more than just a celebration—it was a testament to the power of community, the importance of remembering our past, and the value of giving back to those who have served.
