The Exchange included an in-person experience in Connecticut, where Youth Leaders Wardah, Joey, Yusha, Silas, Chris, and Brooke connected with Youth Leaders from Special Olympics Panama. Together, participants visited local schools to see inclusion in action through Unified classes, sports, and district-wide clubs. Building on these experiences, the Connecticut Youth Leaders collaborated to organize a Unified Prom, creating an opportunity for students from multiple schools to connect, celebrate, and build friendships in an inclusive environment.
Inspired by the opportunity to extend the culture of inclusion beyond individual school communities, Youth Leaders envisioned an event that would bring young people together across the state. Held on March 21, 2025, in celebration of World Down Syndrome Day, the Unified Prom welcomed students from more than 10 schools for an evening centered on connection, friendship, and belonging.
The Unified Prom project brought together nearly 140 young people with and without IDD form across the state for a night filled with dancing, laughter, and connection. Participants described the event as a powerful opportunity to “build lasting friendship and create lifetime memories.”
Six Youth Leaders played key roles in planning and organizing the event, engaging more than 140 participants in an evening of celebration and inclusion. The Exchange also helped Youth Leaders recognize the connections between their international experiences in Panama and the inclusive communities they were building at home.

The impact of the Exchange continues beyond the event itself. Youth Leaders have carried their experiences into their communities, taking on leadership roles and exploring new opportunities to advance inclusion. For one Youth Leader, the Exchange even inspired a decision to pursue a degree in special education.
Planning and coordinating a large-scale event required Youth Leaders to collaborate, communicate, adapt, and lead. Through the process, they strengthened their communication and event management skills while gaining confidence in their ability to bring people together and create meaningful opportunities for inclusion.