Every so often, we hear stories of everyday people doing remarkable things that remind us there’s still so much kindness in the world.

This heartfelt post first appeared on Facebook a few years ago, yet every time I come across it, it still warms my heart—so why not share it again?

It tells the story of a father who remembers the moment a young girl suddenly walked into his office, politely asking if she could pose a question to his autistic son.

Children with special needs often have the same desires as their peers. For any 17-year-old, finding a date for a school dance is a top priority, and being unable to do so can be a tough hit to their self-esteem.

While attending alone might not seem like a major issue in the grand scheme of things, for a teenager, it can feel like a social setback. Struggling to find a date can take a serious toll on their confidence.

Some kids are especially sensitive and may not fully grasp social nuances—this is particularly true for children with special needs, such as autism.

Mike Larson, the father at the center of this story, decided to document his autistic son Jon’s journey to prom. He later shared the heartfelt experience on Facebook, where it quickly resonated with millions, gaining widespread attention.

“This is my son Jon with his prom date Maddi,” Mike wrote alongside a prom photo. “He is a junior and he has autism. About a month ago, Maddi, a senior, came to my office (I’m a teacher at their school) and asked if Jon’s mom and I would allow her to take him to prom.”

Mike went on, “Maddi had met Jon through a school club that fosters friendships between special needs students and their peers. “He’s a junior,” she explained, “so it’s his prom too. I just think he should have the chance to go.” When she told me, I said we’d be honored for him to be her date.”

But Maddi didn’t just invite Jon to her senior prom—she wanted to make sure it was the most unforgettable night of his life. She did some research and found out that his favorite color was orange, so she chose a dress in that shade. She also made dinner plans at his favorite restaurant, where their group, which included another couple, could enjoy a meal featuring his favorite foods: chicken fingers, French fries, and chocolate milk.