By Staff

Published: April 19, 2008

The House Inc., a Woodbridge-based non-profit organization, will hold its Third Annual Cinderella Ball on May 31 for students in fourth to 12th grades with disabilities.

The ball is a prom night designed especially for middle and high school students at the Willard InterContinental in Washington, D.C.

This event, which begins at 6 p.m., will be highlighted by live presentations from recording artist Ruben Studdard and best-selling author Kyle Maynard.

Studdard, the 2003 winner of the Fox television show "American Idol," has gone on to become an award-winning recording artist. He will meet the guests, sign autographs and perform a live concert for the students and their families.

Kyle Maynard is an ESPY Award winner and author of the New York Times bestseller "No Excuses." Maynard was born without forearms or legs below the knees but has found the secret to living a full and active life. He will share his compelling story.

This is Maynard's third Cinderella Ball appearance. "Everyone in life has obstacles to overcome," he said in a news release about the event. "If it weren't for people in my life --my parents, coaches, teachers and friends—and my faith in God, I wouldn't be where I am today. It's people like those at The House, with their events like the Cinderella Ball, who are making the needed difference in students' lives."

Kyle will also present the third annual "No Excuses" award to a student for accomplishments and determination in overcoming obstacles.

"The event site was selected because of the generosity and invitation by the Willard InterContinental Hotel," said The House president Helen McCormick. "The combination of this five-star location, celebrity entertainment and public support will ensure a lasting memory for our students and their families as we face tomorrow today."

The House needs help to collect formal dresses of all sizes and accessories that provide the finishing touch to the Cinderella Ball. The young men will receive shoe shines from military members. In addition, gifts of socks and silk ties are being donated. The organization provides the dresses, hair and makeup appointments, shoes, jewelry, ties and other finishing touches.

The ball is free to students, but seating in limited and pre-registration is required. Individuals and corporations wanting to support the Cinderella Ball are welcome to call 703-928-1402 or 571-237-5860 for more information.

The House Inc. conducts before, after-school and weekend leadership programs for at-risk students grades four through 12. For more information, please visit thehouse-inc.com.

The House Inc. is a not-for-profit, 501(c)3 organization, and all donations are tax deductible.