Shining Stars Network

Shining Stars Network is a non-profit organization that shines a light on the special needs community by finding ways to showcase their many talents. Founded by Michael and Sally Curci, Shining Stars Network began as the incredibly successful Shining Stars Talent Show, which was created by Sally in 2012 to showcase the various talents of special needs students in Cranford, New Jersey. The annual variety show has expanded over the past 8 years. Beginning in school auditoriums our audience soon expanded requiring us to find new venues. Our last two shows performed to audiences of over people at the Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway, NJ. This year's show featured 40 individuals with special needs who performed alongside their typically developing high school buddies. These individuals come together in a dazzling display of choreography and teamwork – a culmination of months of rehearsals and amazing dedication from the students, parents, and volunteers. In addition to organizing talent shows, Shining Stars Network has also created a special needs performing arts camp, Camp Shine, and organizes Shining Stars Ambassador games. The Ambassadors are a team of special needs individuals who face off against teams from the community - including police officers, firefighters and even the Jockeys from Monmouth Park - to promote understanding and inclusion. Shining Stars Network is committed to expanding upon their belief in promoting inclusion and understanding for the special needs community. They aim to continue working at the community level to develop events and experiences bringing the community together. We hope to continue to spread throughout New Jersey and beyond.