First of all, the theme will be “Pursuing Passionate Purpose.” This theme is inspired by the life and legacy of Bill Porter (1932-2013) – a Portlander who experienced cerebral palsy. He was an award-winning salesman, son, and friend… and an accidental icon.
 
Despite being told he was unemployable, Bill was one of The Watkin’s Company’s most successful door-to-door salesman. Bill’s determination to just go to work, pay his bills, and take care of his family caught the attention of a writer at The Oregonian. Next, he appeared on ABC’s 20/20 and TNT released a made for television movie about him (Door to Door).
 
Bill wasn’t looking for attention; instead, he was pursuing his purpose and in doing so, he created a legacy that will benefit others in our community for years to come. 
 
We will also be sharing other stories of people in our community who are passionately pursuing their purpose.

​Leaving high school and finding a job can be hard. Leaving high school and finding a job can be even more difficult if you experience developmental disabilities.
 
That’s why two of UCP’s fantastic Employment Specialists (Ursula Morton and Xochil Springer) recently presented at The Oregon Statewide Transition Conference, which was held was held March 1-2.
  
Ursula and Xochil presented to a packed room, speaking about “Job Development 101.” Their goal was to help teachers learn how to customize employment opportunities for their students; they also shared ideas for collaborating with government entities such as Vocational Rehabilitation.

Learn more about UCP's Supported Employment Services.

Did you know that March is “Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month”?

​It’s also “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month”--President Ronald Reagan made the proclamation back in 1987.
 
The late 1980’s were a time of exciting social change in the disabilities world. Over the last decade, the “deinstitutionalization” movement had taken hold; now the President was asking Americans to provide “encouragement and opportunities” for people with developmental disabilities.
 
In 1990, a landmark act was passed (the Americans with Disabilities Act), and suddenly workplace discrimination against people with disabilities was truly illegal.
 
Lots was happening at UCP Oregon, too—take a look at our history.

So, here we are in 2018, celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month more than thirty years after it was started. Much has changed for the good. But there are still lots of challenges.
 
How will you make a difference this March?