UCP helps wide array of children get ahead
Nov 22, 2013, 12:49 AM | Updated: 1:39 am
The name United Cerebral Palsy might make it sounds like the group only works with one type of person, but that’s not true.
“UCP serves kids that not only have Cerebral Palsy, but that have Down syndrome, autism, developmental delays, learning disabilities and other types of conditions,” United Cerebral Palsy of Central Arizona CEO Armando Contreras told News/Talk 92.3 KTAR’s Rob & Karie.
UCP works with about 7,000 people annually who need assistance in assimilating into the world and they don’t waste any time.
“It starts with early intervention,” said Contreras. “We serve kids from 0 to 5. We have a early learning center that is integrated with ‘typical’ kids.”
The program looks to build confidence from the get-go and even emulates what classroom like will be like. UCP also begins therapy from day one to help them progress.
“We also have an after-school program that provides them with the tools that they need in society and to get out there with their families,” said Contreras.
The after-school function pushes those 3 to 21 into different environments by taking them on field trips. It also works with kids on their homework, computers and the arts.
To learn more about UCP, go to ucpofcentralaz.org.
