More Stories from the Bill Porter Fund

UCP Oregon launched the Bill Porter Memorial Fund in 2018 in an effort to remove barriers and support meaningful lives for people experiencing disabilities.
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​In 2019, the Fund accepted its first round of applicants. Below are some of their stories. (You can also read more stories here.)

• Kelcie experiences CP; she is using her BPMF funds to purchase a handheld shower head on an adjustable pole so she can bathe thoroughly and as independently as possible.
• David shared this: “In my home, I keep a variety of photo albums filled with postcards and photos. When I look through these albums, I realize how much I would like to take photos of my family and those involved in my life. I want to sign up for a photography class that can teach me how to use my camera and take photos at my own pace.” We’re excited to see hear how his class goes!
• Tanya asked for a slip-on upper body balance harness for her thirteen-year-old daughter, who experiences CP. The harness allows her daughter to balance on a yoga ball and practice trunk strength.
• Kim, who experiences an intellectual disability, recently took swimming classes, but found it difficult to get in and out of the pool. However, using BPMF funds, she will be able to swim at a pool closer to home where it’s easier to swim—and to make friends!
• Gracie, an 11-year-old girl with CP, epilepsy, and an undiagnosed neuromuscular disease, likes to swim, and wanted to share the experience with her family. Gracie used BPMF funds to purchase an annual aquatic center membership. As Gracie’s mom writes, “It’s been so exciting to finally find a physical activity that the entire family can do together and have fun, too!”