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It’s a Friday afternoon, and Richard Langendoerfer has just completed his work week as a teacher’s aide at TST BOCES. “It brings a smile to my face,” said Richard, 28. “It’s a job where I come home and think, ‘Wow, I really did something for them today.’” Not long ago, Richard was working as a… Read the full article: Fulfilling a Longtime Dream

Three years ago, Martin Kasey was in a hospital, recovering from a suicide attempt. Two years ago, he was a participant in Unity House’s PROSperity Program, attending group classes with others recovering from mental illness. With help from a PROS practitioner, he was working on his goals: earning his peer certification and applying to graduate… Read the full article: Empowered to Help Others

Harmony Hill Haines, our youngest sister, was born in August 1961. She had Down Syndrome, but that meant nothing to us, her siblings. She was just our unique and lovable little sister. We grew up on a farm in McLean, NY, between Ithaca and Cortland. Harmony flourished with all of the attention she received as… Read the full article: Composing Connection: Harmony’s Story

We are delighted to introduce our 2026 Atkins Community Service and Open Arms awardees! 15th annual OPEN ARMS AWARDEE: Julie Bennett of Aurora Julie Bennett is a 12-Step recovery advocate and owner-operator of Town & Country Dog Grooming in Aurora and Ithaca. Drawing from her lived experience, Julie offers guidance grounded in empathy and authenticity, helping… Read the full article: Unity House announces 2026 award winners

After more than 33 years with this remarkable organization, I am honored to lead Unity House as its fifth chief executive. I’m humbled by the responsibility I now have, and I’m energized by our mission – to empower people with disabilities. Because I started my career as a direct support professional (DSP), I know how… Read the full article: CEO’s Perspective: Leading with You

It’s Thursday morning, and in the Hedgehog and Koala pre-K rooms, the children already know today is going to be special. “When Unity House arrives, the hallways light up with joy,” said Sherri Koski, executive director of Ithaca Community Childcare Center (IC3). For the past two years, participants from Unity House’s Ithaca Day Hab have… Read the full article: Play is for everyone

Unity House is growing to support the residents of three group homes for people with disabilities in Auburn. The homes, known as IRAs (independent residential alternative), have been operated for years by Kelberman, a nonprofit based in Utica. In October, representatives of the state Office for People with Developmental Disabilities asked Unity House to assume… Read the full article: Three Auburn IRAs join Unity House

Since working at Unity House in April 2024, Amy Jefferson has lost 60 pounds and quit smoking. “I feel so great,” said Amy, a residence counselor at New Life IRA in Auburn. “As someone who started at 374 pounds and was a smoker, I have come a long way. I’m excited for what’s next.” From… Read the full article: Healthy Choices, Happy Outcomes

Unity House, a local nonprofit that provides housing and other supports for more than 700 people with disabilities, has a new chief executive.

Darlene Podolak became the organization’s CEO on January 1 after serving more than eight years as its chief operating officer. She replaced Liz Smith, who retired Dec. 31 as the nonprofit’s fourth CEO. Read the full article: Unity House names new leaders