Today I am highlighting an organization that is very close to my heart: United Cerebral Palsy (UCP).

I joined the UCP of Greater Birmingham Junior Board just over a year ago, really knowing very little about the non-profit.  My involvement up until that point had simply been handing over a check after Chappy’s Luau & BBQ Bash (more on that to come).

It is very difficult to sum up everything they do at UCP in few words.  Cerebral palsy itself is an umbrella term of sorts for a multitude of conditions that impair motor function.  The definition is quite broad.  As you might imagine, accommodating this wide range of disability is a formidable task, and this is why UCP has a diverse schedule of programs.  The two main focuses are subdivided into care for children and adults.

For the kids, there are specialty classrooms housing highly trained teachers and communication devices that allow every child to interact.  Full time therapists are on staff to help with the learning process.  Hand in Hand, as the program is called, also emphasizes an integrated environment, where students without disabilities sit alongside those with cerebral palsy.

Those over the age of 21 are privy to everything from living assistance to job training and actual employment on the grounds.  With help, some participants are actually able to acquire full-time positions in the community.  UCP of Greater Birmingham’s adult facility, LincPoint, houses several full-functioning business that provide an avenue for many smiling faces to earn a paycheck.

From infants to adults, UCP is doing wonderful things for those living with disability.  And as with any non-profit, there are a myriad of needs that you can help them with.  Monetary donations are always appreciated, and you can give online.

If your company currently uses a document shredding service, please consider switching to “Gone for Good” one of several companies under UCP.  They have an impressive list of clients and have every appropriate certification (they contract with hospitals and the IRS).

Check here for information on how you can get involved in your local branch of UCP.

DoGood!

Matt

Please email me with any questions, comments, or stories on how you are doing good! matt@DoGoodedness.com