Once Unified. Always Unified. was a youth-led initiative in Kos, Greece, designed to promote awareness, empathy, and inclusion through a series of diverse public events and workshops. The project included cycling races, art and music workshops, Unified basketball games, environmental education, and adaptive swimming. It created regular opportunities for people with and without intellectual disabilities to connect, learn, and celebrate together.
Youth leaders Despoina Chondrou (a Special Olympics athlete with ID) and Ioannis Tsiapos were inspired by their personal experiences in sport, school, and family life to create a movement rooted in empathy and collaboration. Their mentor, Mr. Chatzidavid, and the joy they saw in each participant also kept them motivated. They wanted to show that when youth lead with inclusion, everyone benefits—families, schools, and communities alike.
The project spanned nine months and included themed actions like an autism awareness workshop, a recycled doll-making exhibit, and a “Circle of Friends” series with weekend outings. The team organized a 5km bike ride and swimming lessons, hosted Unified basketball games, and held events like beeswax workshops and environmental games in public squares. Partnerships with the Municipality of Kos, Unified Schools, and local businesses helped ensure wide participation and strong visibility.
The project engaged 70 Special Olympics athletes and 130 peers without ID, created 3 new Unified Schools and 2 new Unified Champion Schools, and introduced 5 new youth leaders. It reached 160 people via social media and strengthened programming at 2 existing Unified Schools. Participants formed lasting friendships and learned that inclusion isn’t just an event—it’s a way of life.
Despoina and Ioannis say they were proudest of bringing together people from all walks of life and creating a space where everyone felt welcome. They overcame organizational challenges through persistence and teamwork. They now plan to keep organizing small Unified events and maintain the friendships and awareness they helped build.