Over the past years, several Allied programs have appeared at Lake Zurich, one of the latest ones being Allied Poms. Started by Cami Rubenstein, sophomore, and Peyton DeVoss, junior, as recently as this year, these allied programs create a supportive environment between people with disabilities and other students. The allied poms club typically meets on Tuesdays after school from 4-5 p.m. in the cafeteria.

“[We decided to start the club because] I have seen [Allied Poms] at other schools and have seen how successful and beneficial it can be for all students,” Rubenstein said.

The positive experience is continued in both practice and throughout the club’s multitude of performance opportunities, some being the dance invite, cheer invite, and two basketball games. Within its first year, the club has already acquired 12 members, but they are also looking for more.

“We are always looking for more people to join allied Poms and would love [to have] more people join,” DeVoss said.

The club is open to almost everybody, including anyone in high school or anybody who is currently in a transition house can participate.

“This [club] can be beneficial to people with disabilities because it gives them an opportunity to learn something new and meet new people. They are also able to participate in dance and experience competitions,” Rubenstein said.

Not only is the club beneficial to the people with disabilities, but it also has been very rewarding for both Rubinstein and DeVoss: the two who started the club.

“Starting Allied Poms has been very rewarding to see the impact it has on everyone. Starting this club has impacted not only me, but others too,” Rubinstein said. “It also shows me how important it is to include everyone and for everyone to have fun.”