​On July 28th, UCP Oregon turns 69 years old!
 
Since our founding in 1955, UCP Oregon has been a beacon of hope, support and advocacy.
 
Our origins include offering some of the first paid employment opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities in Oregon. Currently, we support thousands of adults, children and families who experience any kind of developmental or intellectual disability (I/DD) across the metro Portland area, with family support across the state.
 
Next year, we turn 70 years old! We are excited about the celebration that lays ahead.
 
UCP Oregon wishes to extend a gigantic thank you to the incredible employees, customers, and supporters who have contributed to our mission over the years. Your commitment and passion have truly changed lives.
 
PS: Want to learn more about UCP Oregon’s history? Click here.

Happy birthday to the “Americans with Disabilities Act” (ADA)!
 
We’re proud to tell you that the national UCP organization (United Cerebral Palsy) played a big role in getting the ADA passed.
 
Here, in their words, is what they did:

1. Coalition Building: UCP worked closely with other disability rights organizations to build a strong coalition that could effectively lobby for the ADA. This collaboration helped to unify the message and strengthen the push for legislative action.
2. Testimonies and Lobbying: Representatives from UCP provided testimonies before Congress, sharing stories and data to illustrate the discrimination faced by people with disabilities. Their lobbying efforts were crucial in gaining support from lawmakers.
3. Public Campaigns: UCP engaged in public campaigns to mobilize grassroots support for the ADA. They educated the public and policymakers about the importance of the legislation and how it would improve the lives of millions of Americans with disabilities.
4. Drafting and Policy Input: UCP, along with other disability advocacy groups, contributed to the drafting of the ADA. They provided valuable input on the language and provisions of the bill to ensure it would be effective in addressing the issues faced by people with disabilities.

 
And it worked! The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed on July 26, 1990.
 
It has been described as “the world’s first comprehensive civil rights law for people with disabilities.” It prohibits discrimination based on disability in employment, public services, public accommodations, transportation, and telecommunications.
 
Today, UCP Oregon celebrates the ADA and the progress our nation has made towards a more inclusive society. But there is still work to be done. Join us in our fight to ensure full equality and accessibility for everyone!

Hello, UCP Community.
 
We have some sad news. UCP Oregon’s fabulous Office Manager, Mackenzie Snell, is moving on after an incredible 16 years at UCP.
 
Many of you know Mackenzie. You’ve likely spoken to her on the phone, or met her in person. Mackenzie has always ensured that everyone at UCP feels valued and welcomed.
 
Behind the scenes, Mackenzie has been the rock that many folks at UCP relied on. She coordinated UCP’s technology, interfacing with our IT consultants, and updating and distributing equipment. She handled a number of of important administrative tasks.  She supervised UCP’s petty cash, ordered supplies, and so much more.
 
As Suzannah Newman, HR Director says, “Over the years, so many employees have reached out to sing Mackenzie’s praises. She is one of the first faces that employees, customers and the general public see when they walk in the door, and her commitment to excellent customer services shines through. Mackenzie also helps to keep agency operations running smoothly and efficiently. Mackenzie frequently saves the day! My team will not be the same without her.”
 
We'll miss Mackenzie dearly, but we're also super excited for her next adventure. Mackenzie has shared that she will be working as an Office Manager at a small law firm near her home.
 
Mackenzie says, “I will miss everyone at UCP! I’m so grateful I got to experience the close relationships I have made over the years with my amazing co-workers and our wonderful customers. I will always support UCP’s mission and cherish my time with you all.”
 
Thank you, Mackenzie, for everything you've done. You've made a huge impact, and we'll never forget it.
 
PS: Want to send your best wishes to Mackenzie? You can email her below.

This July, UCP Oregon is proud to join the global celebration of Disability Pride Month.
 
Disability Pride Month is a time to honor the history, achievements, and culture of the disability community.
 
It's a time to embrace and celebrate our unique identities and to amplify the voices of people with disabilities.
 
Join UCP Oregon in celebrating 2024 Disability Pride Month! Together, we can create a more inclusive world where everyone is valued and respected.
 
Curious about the History of Disability Pride Month?
 
Disability Pride Month originated in July 1990, coinciding with the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a landmark law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities.
 
In 2024, numerous events are scheduled to celebrate Disability Pride Month across various cities.