Members of NFA's Youth Activation Committee (YAC) took time to teach their peers the game of golf. Hosted at the Powelton Club in Newburgh and initiated by YAC member Jordan Ouhaj, NFA students joined together to teach and learn the game of golf. Members of the NFA Golf team taught their peers basic skills to begin their journey through the course, developing skills along the way. Youth leaders partner with peers and adults to promote inclusive environments and educate other that intellectual disabilities affect people of all ages, genders, religions and cultures. These motivated young people motivate and inspire the people around them to become involved with Special Olympics New York and its unified initiatives. Throughout the year, NFA hosts Unified Basketball and Unified Bowling teams. Through the YAC, students have the opportunity to learn aspects of different sports with their peers. 

The NFA Youth Activation Committee is advised by Ms. Sandy Baines.

More about Youth Activation Committees (YAC) can be found below:

Through Youth Activation Committees (YAC) at Unified Champion Schools, youth leaders with and without intellectual disabilities plan activities that promote and advocate for respect, inclusion and acceptance for all people. YACs take responsibility for promoting and sustaining their school Unified Sports teams, while creating a more socially inclusive school climate through various Whole School Engagement campaigns.

Training together and playing together is a quick path to friendship and understanding. Special Olympics Unified Sports (registered trademark) bring people with and without intellectual disabilities together to train and compete. Every player is given an opportunity to contribute to the success of the team through their unique skills and qualities, with minimal rule modifications to ensure integrity and a truly authentic sports experience.

That's why the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) recognizes Unified Sports as an official interscholastic offering. NYSPHSAA shares our philosophy that authentic and credible athletics have the greatest impact on the student athlete and serve the greater purpose of destroying stigma and stereotypes of people with intellectual disabilities.

More than 1.2 million people worldwide take part in Special Olympics Unified Sports, breaking down stereotypes about people with intellectual disabilities. ESPN is the program’s Global Presenting Sponsor, supporting its growth and message of inclusion worldwide.

Referenced from the Special Olympics New York.