CEO’s Perspective: A Legacy of Respect

by retiring Unity House CEO Liz Smith

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.

When I later learned that there was a movement to de-institutionalize people, to integrate them into the community and help them live their best lives, I wanted to be part of it. I made it my career.

Today, as I look back on my nearly 40 years in this field – 30 years at Unity House, including 16 years as CEO – I’m proud to say that it was everything I had hoped it would be. I’ve built long-lasting relationships with the people we support. I’ve watched them learn, grow and thrive. I’ve watched our organization grow from supporting a few dozen residents to empowering nearly 800 people each year.

This work has always been my passion. As CEO, I got to dream big, knowing that Unity House had a whole family of staff, volunteers and donors ready to make it happen. That’s you! And you did make it happen. How lucky am I?

This work has been the best gift a person could ask for.