UNIFIED AT IONA PREP 

Unified at Iona Prep is a series of zero-cost programs offered at Iona Prep dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities and dismantling stereotypes by creating spaces where all individuals are welcomed as equals and friends. At Unified at Iona Prep, we foster a culture of inclusivity by uniting our members through their common interests. As we highlight their similarities and celebrate their differences, our members form genuine friendships and develop a sense of belonging.

Unified at Iona Prep kicked off its inaugural year in the summer of 2023 with Unified Sports, a program that welcomed high school athletes of all abilities to train and play alongside one another. Teammates developed lasting friendships through their common love of sports. In the fall of 2023, we shifted our focus to music, providing students with inclusive opportunities to sing and play instruments at Unified Music. We recently concluded the Unified Social Club, an unparalleled program in which students play board games, create art, and give back to their communities.  Looking ahead, we are excited to sustain these programs and expand our horizons by offering various new programs centered around the diverse interests of our members.

Why Unified?

There are many truly outstanding organizations in Westchester County that serve individuals with special needs. These organizations provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to develop skills and have fun in safe environments with high-value staff and volunteers. However, individuals with disabilities continue to be separated from their neuro-typical peers. Unified at Iona Prep is unique because neurotypical and able-bodied members do not act as volunteers or mentors. Instead, they participate in the programs alongside members with disabilities as equals and friends. At Unified at Iona Prep, we believe that there are two keys to unlocking a future in which individuals with disabilities are treated with dignity and respect in all avenues of life. The first is creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to be part of the wider community and the second is teaching neurotypical young people to accept, value, and understand individuals with disabilities.