Unity Games reunion: A day for fun, with a serious message

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Reunions — a way to reconnect with friends and create memories. Organizers of the 2023 Unity Games Reunion did just that.

Youngsters in action at the Unity Games Reunion. (Courtesy/Dr. Mark Sherman)Staten Island Advance

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Youngsters engage in relay races. (Courtesy/Dr. Mark Sherman)Staten Island Advance

“It was great success in spite of the inclement weather,” said Dr. Mark Sherman, an orthopedic surgeon who co-founded the Unity Games with Jacob Carey, a surgical technician.

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Youngsters engage in exercise routines. (Courtesy/Dr. Mark Sherman)Staten Island Advance

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The colorful Unity Games symbol. (Courtesy/Dr. Mark Sherman)Staten Island Advance

And though the rain may have prevented an even greater turnout, those who participated arrived ready to party, he added.

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From the left, Jacob Carey, co-founder of the Unity Games, John, a volunteer, and Dr. Mark Sherman, co-founder of the Unity Games. (Courtesy/Dr. Mark Sherman)Staten Island Advance

The Unity Games, a mega event each March, is an experience that’s more than just about basketball. It’s about promoting respect, elevating open-mindedness toward all ethnicities and religions, and about creating tolerance among young people through a shared experience.

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Dr. Jacob Carey and volunteers at the Unity Games Reunion. (Courtesy/Dr. Mark Sherman)Staten Island Advance

The project is a mix of basketball games, workshops, clinics and game room time, as well as guest speakers. Workshops topics include internet safety, drug awareness, bullying and gang violence.

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Lois Schwartz, center, and volunteers. (Courtesy/Dr. Mark Sherman)Staten Island Advance

THE REUNION

The day, free to participants, included games, snacks, lunch, drinks and Unity Games T-shirts designed by Lexi Harris, a Unity Games alum, that were distributed to youngsters.

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Volunteers showcase the original Unity Games Reunion T-shirt designed by Lexi Harris, a Unity Games alum. (Courtesy/Dr. Mark Sherman)Staten Island Advance

And unlike the formal…

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