Disparity Prevention Program

HYPU’s Disparity Prevention Program breaks the cultural and societal stigmas around disparities and closes the gaps of marginalized groups through advocacy, community collaborations, empowerment, education, and resource navigation. 

The picture above was taken on February 28th where HYPU had the privilege to celebrate and champion inclusivity. 

We partnered with Intellectual/Developmental Disability students and general education students from Grant Union High School (GUHS) for a friendship field trip to John's Incredible Pizza. The purpose was to encourage all participants, particularly I/DD youths, to expand their networks beyond their immediate circles so we can all learn from each other. This ranges from building social skills, and confidence, to learning to ask for help when needed. 

Here are some participants' highlights:

"Although it might’ve been tough to be partnered up with our partners, I thought it was fun to see them have fun because I was there. When we all played a car game, I saw them concentrated and having fun, making me have fun." - Bell Lee, GUHS student

"All the staff commented on what a great trip it was. A paraeducator said she loved seeing the students paired up and interacting with each other. Another teacher commented on how the special ed students seemed happy and saw a change in their demeanor. For example, we had very shy students who seemed to open up with friendship club members. We did have some parents show up and comment on how nice and organized the trip was. The students came into school today still talking about how much fun they had and the new friends they made yesterday." - Twyla Johns and staff, GUHS Staff 

Let's continue doing great things in the community together!