WASHINGTON, D.C. — June 2026 — Unity Bands is proud to announce the successful completion of its largest Air Unity donation event to date, supporting 19 Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) students through a partnership with Academy of Hope in Washington, D.C.
Through the Air Unity program, each student received a gift bag containing a new pair of shoes and other essential items designed to support them as they pursue careers in healthcare. The event marks a significant milestone for Unity Bands, bringing the organization’s total impact to 78 pairs of shoes donated to healthcare students and workers.
Academy of Hope’s CNA program equips individuals with the education and training needed to enter the healthcare workforce, creating opportunities for meaningful careers dedicated to serving others. Unity Bands was honored to support these future healthcare professionals as they take the next step in their journey.
In addition to receiving their gift bags, students were invited to participate in a healthcare worker needs survey. By scanning a QR code upon arrival, participants provided valuable feedback that will help Unity Bands better understand the challenges, priorities, and experiences of both current and future healthcare workers. Every student who completed the survey was entered into a raffle for a piece of jewelry generously donated by Kendra Scott.
According to John Schirrippa, Founder and President of Unity Bands, the Academy of Hope event reflects the mission of the Air Unity program to support healthcare workers and students throughout their journey. The event marked a significant milestone for the organization, supporting its largest class to date and bringing the total number of shoes donated through Air Unity to 78 pairs.
Event Impact
- 19 CNA students supported through Academy of Hope
- 19 gift bags distributed, including new shoes
- 78 total pairs of shoes donated through Air Unity
- Largest Air Unity donation class to date
- Healthcare workforce needs survey completed by participating students
- Kendra Scott jewelry raffle awarded to one participant
Unity Bands extends its sincere appreciation to the organizations and community partners who helped make this event possible. Special thanks to Kendra Scott for donating the raffle prize, Target of Annapolis for its gift card donation, and Crocs for its continued support of the Air Unity program. Their generosity helps provide meaningful resources, encouragement, and opportunities to individuals entering the healthcare field.
As Air Unity continues to grow, Unity Bands remains committed to its mission of Hope, Fight, Unity, supporting healthcare workers and students through practical assistance, community partnerships, and programs that make a lasting impact.
About Unity Bands
Unity Bands is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting healthcare workers and healthcare students through programs that provide essential resources, recognition, and encouragement. Through initiatives like Air Unity, Unity Bands works to empower those who care for others while building stronger and healthier communities.
For more information about Unity Bands and the Air Unity program, visit our website or follow us on social media.
Media Contact
Madison Schisler
Lead Marketing Coordinator, Unity Bands
2631 Housley Road, Suite 1082
Annapolis, MD 21401