Empowering Lives.
Securing Futures.

Unity House’s mission is to empower and enrich the lives of people in recovery, coping with a mental illness, and/or diagnosed with a developmental disability.

Empowering Lives.
Securing Futures.

Unity House’s mission is to empower and enrich the lives of people in recovery, coping with a mental illness, and/or diagnosed with a developmental disability.

Nominate a deserving volunteer for the
16th annual Fred Atkins Community Service Award

This award recognizes an outstanding Cayuga County volunteer who exhibits high moral standards and philanthropic spirit. Learn more about the award here.

The selected recipient will be honored at Unity House’s annual dinner on Monday, April 27. Nominations are due by Wednesday, February 11 to Kelly Buck.

News & Events

A message from new CEO Darlene Podolak

January 5, 2026

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.… Read the full article: A message from new CEO Darlene Podolak

Dozens honor retiring CEO Liz Smith’s legacy

December 15, 2025

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… Read the full article: Dozens honor retiring CEO Liz Smith’s legacy