An upcoming event hopes to celebrate neurodiverse students in Williamsburg. Makayla Haar, a student from the University of the Cumberlands (UC), shared information about Unified Patriot Games during the Williamsburg Board of Education Feb. 17 meeting.
Haar, a UC sophomore majoring in exercise and sports science with a minor in sports and wellness psychology, described the Unified Patriot Games as a unified track and field event featuring relay races, 40-yard dashes, broad jump competitions, and more. The event was compared to the Special Olympics.
The Community Outreach and Diversity Committee will collaborate with the Williamsburg Independent Functional Mental Disability (FMD) program to celebrate neurodiverse students.
“They’re as much of a part of the community as everyone else here,” said Haar. “Most of the time, they are put to the side, but this day is to make them the focus.”
“I can’t achieve this alone,” said Haar. “[I will] need the support from all aspects.”
She encouraged board members to spread the word to help secure community sponsors, donations, and volunteers.
“I hope to create a closer bond between the University of the Cumberlands and the Williamsburg community,” said Haar.
The event is scheduled for April 10 at the Williamsburg Independent High School Football Field.
