Honoring the Dignity of Every Person
God creates each of us with intentional love and purpose. Every person, regardless of appearance, ability, strengths, or limitations, is a unique reflection of His goodness. Within our Catholic community, we strive to form young people who recognize, honor, and celebrate the God-given dignity of every human life.
This page provides faith-based lesson plans and meaningful volunteer opportunities that help children and teens grow in compassion, empathy, and respect for individuals with special needs. Through Scripture, prayer, hands-on activities, and real-world service, students learn that every person reveals the image of God.
The organizations below provide students with opportunities to serve, learn, and form friendships with children and adults with disabilities. Ages vary by program.
Pegasus Therapeutic Riding — Putnam County
Provides therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with special needs.
Younger students and school groups may volunteer by helping with barn activities, supporting riders, or assisting with special events.
Best Buddies — Rockland County & Nationwide (E-Buddies) | Ages 10+
A global friendship and inclusion program connecting students with and without intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD).
- In-person Best Buddies: Builds one-on-one friendships through school-based or community gatherings.
- E-Buddies: A safe, online pen-pal program enabling students to develop friendships digitally.
Elizabeth Seton Children’s School — Westchester County | Ages 16+
A renowned school serving children ages 3–8 with complex medical and developmental needs.
Volunteers support teachers in the classroom, assist with activities, greet families at reception, and help with events.
Contact: info@setonchildrens.org
KEEN New York — Manhattan & Bronx | Ages 16+
KEEN provides free sports and recreational programs for young people with disabilities.
Volunteers serve as “coaches,” offering one-on-one encouragement and adapting activities to meet each athlete’s needs.
https://www.keennewyork.org/
Cardinal Hayes Home — Westchester County | Ages 15+
A residential home and educational program for children and young adults with developmental disabilities.
Volunteers participate in classroom life, support recreational activities, and build meaningful personal connections.
https://cardinalhayeshome.org/
Gospel of Life: Celebrating Special Needs
God makes each person special—a unique creation whom He planned from the beginning of time. The Respect Life office has created resources to encourage students to recognize each person as a gift, regardless of their strengths, weaknesses, and limitations. Learn more.