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Impact U

an immersive post-secondary program

 

PREPARE
for a life of purpose and impact

Impact U is an immersive, 2-year, post-secondary program of Concordia College where adults aged 18-26 with intellectual and developmental disabilities receive the supports and safeguards they need to participate fully in an inclusive college-living experience - on campus with traditional college students. Students audit college level classes open to all students, share access to all campus facilities, activities and events, and live in an integrated residence hall among traditional Concordia College students. Impact U offers access to college life among same age typical peers as a means to safely and successfully increase autonomy and independent living skills. Impact U prepares students for employability in competitive, integrated job settings. Students engage in job readiness skills through prevocational training and supported employment in on-campus internships the first year, and possible off-campus internships the second year. Students graduate with a Certificate of Applied Learning and a resume of work experiences.

We are here to help you every step of the way.

Email Eleanor Evangelista, Senior Director of Student Academic Support, to hear more about the program.

Eleanor.Evangelista@concordia-ny.edu

A COLLEGE EXPERIENCE
and so much more

Concordia’s Impact U students can live in the dorms on our small, safe campus, and participate in all aspects of student life. They go to class, eat in the dining hall, perform community service, work in internships on and off campus, and enjoy the student-centered atmosphere of our small, faith-based college. The program encourages social and emotional growth while building skills in problem-solving, decision-making and self-advocacy. And of course, Impact U graduates become lifelong Clippers – a valued part of Concordia’s close-knit alumni community.

 

Male student in blue shirt holding paper and gesturing; student in plaid shirt is looking down and laughing

Frequently Asked
QUESTIONS

Who is the program designed for?

The program is designed for students aged 18-26 with varying abilities and learning styles, including intellectual and developmental disabilities. These may be neurologically-based, including autism. At this time, the program can only accommodate students who are ambulatory and sighted. Students with disabilities who have demonstrated the potential to earn a traditional college degree may be interested in Concordia Connection.

What do students gain from the program?

The program is designed to produce the following outcomes:

  • Certificate of Applied Learning from Concordia College New York
  • Employability in competitive, integrated job settings
  • Increased personal responsibility as a foundation for independent living
  • Resume of internships and work experiences in local businesses and organizations
  • Social and emotional growth, enhanced ability to problem-solve, self-advocate, and make decisions
  • Increased awareness of own spirituality and values
  • Greater knowledge of community resources
  • Lifelong connection to Concordia College as valued alumni

Why is Concordia College a good fit for a program like ImpactU?

Concordia is a small, faith-based college located in the safe and beautiful community of Bronxville, NY. We are proudly diverse, with a nurturing, student-centered ethos. The Impact U program falls within the college’s Education Division, and benefits from the active engagement of the division’s faculty and student body. 

What are the criteria for admission?

  • 18-26 years of age
  • Students with varying abilities and learning styles including developmental disability, autism, and/or intellectual disability are welcome
  • Ambulatory
  • Ability to navigate campus after training
  • Developmentally ready to work; motivated to work
  • Ability to self-medicate and visit health services when needed
  • Basic level of judgement regarding safety issues
  • HS diploma, Alternately Assessed, CDOS, or similar from outside NY

What qualities will make a student a good fit?

Students will benefit most from the program if they have a desire to learn how to be more independent, and the motivation to work. Successful students will have the ability to navigate their way around our small campus once it becomes familiar to them, and demonstrate a basic level of judgement with regard to safety issues.   

Does the program offer an option to commute?

Living within the inclusive setting of our campus is an important component of the Impact U program, and we very much encourage it. With the appropriate support the program provides, dorm life gives students invaluable opportunities to practice independence and build confidence in their newfound abilities. We do accept commuting students under some circumstances, however, so parents and prospective students who are not sure about dorm life should feel welcome to apply. 

What is the application process?

Separate personal interviews are required for prospective students and their parents. Required submissions include:

  • Completed application form
  • Health records as per Concordia College requirements
  • Vineland II scores
  • Two recommendations from previous school
  • IEP as needed
  • Strengths-based, person-centered plan (this can be created upon admission)

Is financial aid available?

Because Impact U students take Concordia classes for audit (non-credit), traditional financial aid is not an option. However, OPWDD Self- Directed funding may be allocated to cover some components of the program. Please speak to Eleanor Evangelista, Senior Director of Student Academic Support, for more information.