Sedona Paykin

Why Unified?  There are many truly outstanding organizations 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 our neurotypical 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.