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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

Happy 2026! I am excited to begin this new year as Unity House’s CEO. After 33 years here, including the last year working closely with former CEO Liz Smith to make this transition as smooth as possible, I’m ready to lead Unity House on the next leg of its journey. I’m grateful for all of… Read the full article: A message from new CEO Darlene Podolak

Unity House CEO Liz Smith will retire at year’s end after nearly four decades of empowering people with disabilities. To honor Liz and her life’s work, more than 35 people have made contributions to the new Liz Smith Legacy Fund. As part of Unity House’s endowment, the fund will ensure that people with disabilities will… Read the full article: Dozens honor retiring CEO Liz Smith’s legacy

I grew up on Long Island. I was just 11 in 1972 when I saw Geraldo Rivera’s exposé on the Willowbrook State School for developmentally disabled children on nearby Staten Island. This state-funded institution was worse than a dog kennel: no rehabilitation, 50-to-one staff ratios, disgusting conditions.

I was appalled. It changed me.

From then on, I had a calling. I knew that people with disabilities were humans worthy of respect, support and care. Read the full article: CEO’s Perspective: A Legacy of Respect

Your generosity empowers people with disabilities at Unity House. As we approach the end of 2025, I want to make sure you know of three ways to support Unity House’s mission that could also shrink your tax bill.   Read the full article: How to save on taxes while supporting Unity House

Every month, federal SNAP benefits pay for $30,000 in food for people with disabilities who live in Unity House residences. When the recent government shutdown put those benefits on hold, Unity House supporters responded. In less than a week, 19 people made more than $2,300 in gifts. We would never allow the people we support… Read the full article: You put food on the table for people with disabilities

What makes a good leader? CEO Liz Smith was recently interview by Syracuse.com reporter Marie Morelli as part of their ongoing series, ‘On Leadership.’ “You have to stay consistent and focused on your mission,” Liz said. “You need to stay informed. You need to not let the crazy infiltrate the walls. And you just have… Read the full article: Unity House’s Liz Smith on leadership