UCP OREGON'S ​FAMILY SUPPORT DEPARTMENT

UCP Oregon's Family Support Department has been operating since 1984. The department currently supports hundreds of families in Oregon who are raising kids with cerebral palsy or a closely-related disability.

The department is there at every stage, from the initial diagnosis, to the time when the child is ready to start their adult life.

Along the way, we'll offer hope, a sense of connection, education and information, and fun.

Our services include:
  • Information and referral.
  • Support groups.
  • Fun events.
  • Workshops and trainings.
  • ​Connection with other families who are in a similar situation.

Who Is Eligible?

  • Any family who is raising a child who experiences cerebral palsy, or a closely-related condition, in Oregon and SW Washington.
  • If you are unsure if you or your family qualify, feel free to contact our team to learn if we might be a fit for you.

FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES:

Connection and Community Building Events​
UCP Oregon’s Family Support Department works to lift up families raising a child with cerebral palsy or another disability by building community and creating meaningful ways to connect—through dedicated events for parents and caregivers, fun, family-friendly gatherings, and shared experiences for children with cerebral palsy.

Recent events have included:
Other past events have included:​​​

GAB “Gimme A Break” Support Groups
We are excited to announce that our “GAB” (Gimme-A-Break) Support Groups, are back!

​We’ve been working to enhance and expand these groups so that even more families can benefit from the support and connection they offer.

There are currently two monthly GAB Support Groups:
  • In-Person Portland GAB Group on the second Wednesday 
  • Online GAB Group on the third Thursday
​

WORKSHOPS
Learn, share and connect at UCP Oregon's classes and workshops, most of which are held online to ensure accessibility for all.
​

zetosch fund
Through the Zetosch Fund, families who are raising kids who experience developmental disabilities—and who receive supports from UCP Oregon’s Family Support Department—may apply for funding to purchase adaptive equipment and services that support learning.

​Each child may qualify for up to $1,800 per year.
​

respitality
Respitality is one way of caring for caregivers—because supporting them means supporting families.

​Respitality services include overnight hotel stays, dining or entertainment gift cards, and other experiences that give caregivers time to rest, recharge, and reconnect.
​

THE BILL PORTER MEMORIAL FUND
UCP Oregon created the Bill Porter Memorial Fund (BPMF) in 2018. Funds are typically dispersed each year in the spring.

Anyone who is currently enrolled in UCP's services, including our Family Support Department, are eligible to apply. 

​Applicants are encouraged to be creative and inventive when deciding how to use funds—the funds can be spent on almost anything that will improve their quality of life. Here are a few examples:
  • Home modifications.
  • Assistive technology.
  • Adaptive equipment.
  • Travel.
  • Classes and therapy.
  • Fitness memberships, such as at local swimming pools.

The BPMF typically opens in March. Awardees are notified in May/June.
​

FAMILY SUPPORT Conference
UCP Oregon’s Family Support Department has held two-day conferences in the past that were designed especially for families who are raising children with cerebral palsy.

These events have brought together parents, children and adults with disabilities, medical professionals, and disability-related vendors for connection and learning.

While the conference is currently on hiatus, we remain committed to providing meaningful opportunities for learning and community. Check out our Connection and Community Building Events, GAB Support Groups, and our Family Support Workshops.
Call UCP's Family Support Coordinator (Grace Tunning) at 503-777-4166, or email her below.