 Did you know that UCP Oregon has an online support group, open to all Oregon & SW Washington families who are raising a child with cerebral palsy or a closely related disability?
It's called "Gimme A Break" (GAB). The meetings are held monthly via Zoom. During the meeting, families get the chance to connect with other families in a safe and non-judgmental space. They share ideas and resources, cheer for each other, vent, and just talk.
 Wow! We did it! UCP Oregon’s 2023 Toy Giveaway was AMAZING!
The event was held on December 21st and 22nd, 2023, and was open to all families who use UCP Oregon’s Family Support Services. Fun Facts:
Special Thanks Go To:
 Oh, wow! It's almost here. This Thursday and Friday (December 21st and 22nd), UCP Oregon is holding our 2023 UCP Oregon Toy Giveaway.
So many folks have signed up to volunteer to make this event happen, but we still have a few important volunteer slots open. If you'd like to make one last difference in 2023, this is your chance! Sign up below! We had so much fun at our 2023 Cinnamon Bear Cruise.
Almost 100 families from UCP Oregon's Family Support Department were able to participate! These families are raising children who experience cerebral palsy or a closely related disability. On December 2, 2023, they gathered together, with UCP's Holiday Elf in Chief (UCP's Executive Director, Ann Coffey) on the Portland Spirit. They enjoyed a festive boat ride down the Willamette River, partaking in a delicious meal as a cast of fanciful characters entertained the children with holiday-themed storytelling, music and magic. Thanks to everyone who participated! PS: It's not too late to sponsor a child, a family... or even several families! Donate below.  Have you registered yet for UCP Oregon’s 2023 Toy Giveaway? We only have 13 slots left!
The Toy Giveaway is open to all families who use UCP Oregon’s Family Support Services. Families are eligible to choose a toy for their child, plus enjoy some hot chocolate, cider and cookies. The event will be held on December 21st and 22nd, 2023 at the UCP Office, from 10am-4pm.  Dear UCP Oregon Community,
Can you believe it's already December? UCP Oregon has been hard at work preparing for the 2023 UCP Oregon Toy Giveaway. The Toy Giveaway is one of our most cherished annual traditions. Dozens of families from our Family Support Department are able to choose a free toy for their child/children. This year, we need lots of volunteers to help at the Toy Giveaway! We're asking for YOU to sign up for a volunteer shift. We have something for everyone:
Sign up here. And thank you so much for your help. This event is only possible because of amazing volunteers like you!  Have you registered yet for UCP Oregon’s 2023 Toy Giveaway? This event is open to all families who use UCP Oregon’s Family Support Services. Circa now, almost 50% of the toy pick-up spots are filled, so make sure to RSVP ASAP. The event will be held on December 21 and 22, 2023 at the UCP Office, from 10am-4pm. Learn more about the event here.
Dear UCP Oregon Community,
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the cancellation of UCP’s 2023 Family Support Toy Giveaway. Unforeseen challenges have compelled us to make this difficult decision. This decision was not made lightly, and we understand the disappointment it will bring to the Family Support community, especially during the holiday season. We look forward to holding the Toy Giveaway again in December of 2024. In the meantime, please reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns. We are grateful for your understanding and patience. Sincerely, Ann Coffey, Executive Director UCP Oregon  From Ann Coffey, UCP Oregon’s Executive Director
Last weekend (November 3-4, 2023), UCP Oregon held our 19th Family Support Conference. The conference theme was “Reunited,” and that’s exactly what happened—dozens of people (parents, families, caregivers, professionals, and vendors) gathered together. They learned. They connected. They brainstormed and problem solved. They shared their joys and successes. Katherine Ball, UCP’s Family Support Director, coordinated the entire event. As Katherine shared in the conference program, “Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and let the magic of being ‘Reunited’ happen! This is your chance to visit old friends and make some new, too. You’ll be able to meaningfully discuss the issues we face every day with folks who understand.” Our Keynote Speaker was Lauren Lowery, a trauma-informed life coach. Lauren assists families of children experiencing disabilities and medical issues to “get out of survival mode and start living a life that is better than they imagined.” The conference included two days of workshops, on topics such as:
There was a teen/young adult panel; a parent panel; a sibling panel; and moderated sessions for moms and dads. Although it’s said that “many hands make light work,” the following people deserve a huge shout out for their dedication and ongoing effort:
that's a wrap... thanks to everyone who helped make the 19th family support conference amazing!11/4/2023
 Wow! We can't believe it's already over!
A GIGANTIC THANK YOU to everyone who made UCP Oregon’s 19th Family Support conference possible:
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