We’re deeply saddened to share that our long-time board member, colleague, and friend Molly Holsapple passed away peacefully last week. Molly was a tireless advocate, community leader, and friend to so many. For more than forty years, Molly helped shape Oregon’s disability services system—creating new opportunities, expanding inclusion, and helping thousands of Oregonians with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) live fuller, more self-directed lives. Molly’s impact at UCP Oregon and across the state can’t be overstated. Her leadership, warmth, humor, and fierce commitment to doing what was right continue to inspire us every day. UCP Oregon’s Executive Director, Ann Coffey, worked closely with Molly for many years—and was grateful to call her a friend. Read Ann’s letter celebrating Molly’s extraordinary life and legacy below. Did you know that UCP Oregon is part of a powerful national network of United Cerebral Palsy affiliates driving change across the country? Recently, the national UCP organization (United Cerebral Palsy) shared some powerful statistics about their work, and the work of all the affiliates over a 2024-2025 fiscal year.
Read the full national UCP 2024–2025 Annual Report below. 
 July is Disability Pride Month—a time to celebrate disability as identity, culture, and community.
But this year, it also arrives in the shadow of uncertainty. With major cuts to Medicaid recently signed into law, many in the disability community are feeling the weight of what might come next. That’s why this month matters more than ever. As UCP Oregon's Executive Director, Ann Coffey, writes, “Pride isn’t about ignoring hard truths. It’s about embracing the whole story—joy and pain, struggle and strength—and finding ways to move forward, together.” Read Ann’s full message here. We’re also taking time this month to honor the Disability Pride Flag, a powerful symbol of visibility, identity, and resistance. Did you know it was redesigned in 2021 to be more accessible for people with visual sensitivities? Here’s what each part of the flag represents:
You can learn more about the flag’s redesign here. Whether you’re celebrating, grieving, or somewhere in between—we’re glad you’re here. #DisabilityPride #DisabilityPride2025 #UCPOregon #MedicaidMatters #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs  At UCP Oregon, advocacy is more than just a word—it’s a commitment we embrace every day.
Whether we’re speaking up for (and with) our customers at the Oregon State Capitol or partnering with other organizations to defend vital services, we believe that every voice deserves to be heard—loudly, clearly, and often. If you're wondering what's happening on the national advocacy front, we hope you'll read this brief newsletter from our Executive Director, Ann Coffey.  A recent Executive Order is bringing changes that will impact the disability community, and we know many people have questions. We're here to break down what this means for the individuals and families we serve.
In this update, you’ll find:
Read the full update here. Stay informed and connected—your voice matters!  UCP Oregon Community, As many of you know, UCP Oregon is currently wading through tides of information related to the President’s recent Executive Orders. One Executive Order relates to Medicaid. As a non-profit, it is not UCP Oregon’s role to represent political opinions. Rather, our role is to focus on legislation and the potential impact to our mission, values and the communities we serve. However, these Executive Orders, if implemented, will have a large impact on the entire UCP Oregon Community. Medicaid provides essential healthcare for millions of people, including children, seniors, and people with disabilities. Right now, Medicaid is at risk, and we need your help to protect it. Luckily, a simple voicemail can make a difference! Call 1-866-426-2631 to be connected to your members of Congress. It only takes a minute. NOTES:
Every call helps show that Medicaid is vital to our community. Thank you for taking action! Sincerely, Ann Coffey Executive Director UCP Oregon how it works:
Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I live in [Your City and ZIP Code]. I’m calling to ask you to protect Medicaid. Medicaid is critical for people with disabilities, families, and seniors. Medicaid saves lives. Please oppose any cuts or changes to Medicaid. Thank you!  From the Desk of Ann Coffey, Executive Director
Dear UCP Oregon Community, What a year! There has been so much growth and change. It’s been thrilling, challenging, interesting, and engaging, and I am so grateful that we were together. High fives all around! I wish to extend my heartfelt appreciation to every member of this community—customers, employees, families, board members, donors, and supporters. To the employees who are working through the holidays to ensure that our customers have many joyful moments, we are especially grateful. When you have time, please take a moment to reflect. What have we shared? What have we learned? How will we show up to provide excellent supports to customers? How will we support one another? Thank you again for all that you do. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season, and a new year filled with health, hope, and happiness. Sincerely, Ann Coffey Executive Director UCP Oregon  Hello from UCP's Family Support Department! We're excited to tell you that our new Family Support Coordinator, Grace Tunning, has been hard at work. She started on November 4th. So far, Grace is loving her job. She says, "It has been a joy these past couple weeks learning all the incredible ways the Family Support Department has impacted and supported the children and families in our community for so many years. I am honored to carry on this important work and tradition!" Upcoming Family Support Events:
Contact Grace: Are you a family who uses UCP's Family Support services? If so, you should have received an email from Grace today with more information. If you didn't receive the email from Grace today, you can contact Grace below, and she'll add you to our Family Support email list. Thanks!  FROM THE DESK OF ANN COFFEY: |
