Author Archives: UCP of San Joaquin, Calaveras & Amador Counties

Spirit of Independence!

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Each year America celebrates its independence on the 4th of July. At United Cerebral Palsy we’re celebrating independence each and every day for people with developmental disabilities. The article in The Record titled, “The Spirit of Independence,” described how Kate Daugherty has become self-employed with her business KLD Errand Service. Kate has been diagnosed with a disability, but she doesn’t let that stop her from living a life of independence. She currently works for UCP utilizing our Supported Employment Program in an Adult Day Program helping others with disabilities. On the side, she has her very own business helping people by running errands for them. She recently earned her full independence when she moved out of her parent’s home. The article quoted Kate as saying that having a job at UCP is what has set her free, “I really can have my independence.”

UCP Canister Program – Giving that makes “Cents”

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You see them all the time as you pay for groceries or your morning cup of coffee. You may even see them so much you hardly notice them anymore, but that small canister at the register of your local grocery store, gas station or diner helps make a big difference to agencies like United Cerebral Palsy.

For more than a decade, UCP has worked with more than 37 local businesses that have volunteered to place these canisters in their venues. These partnerships help raise over $10,000 every year to support UCP programs and services.

Two years ago, Program Without Walls, an adult day community based program, took over the Canister Program as their community project. Individuals in the program are responsible for advertising the program, delivering canisters, picking up and sorting donations and turning donations into UCP’s corporate office. 20% of the total donations collected go to the PWW Advocacy Account that funds field trips for consumers to theme parks, museums, and aquariums.

The participation of businesses is vital to the ongoing success of the Canister Program.  We would like to thank our current canister participants for their continued support and partnerships. A special thank you to the Volunteer Center in San Andreas who manages this fundraiser for us in the foothills.