UCP WORK, Inc. Blog

In the United States alone, 42.5 million people have at least one form of disability. That means that people with disabilities make up the largest minority nationwide.  So then why are they also the most untapped labor market?  Perhaps it’s because of the misconceptions about people with disabilities that have made employers reluctant to hire them.  It’s also due to increased barriers that once a person has transitioned out of youth services, such as special education, there are very few vocational training services available, in some cities, to bridge the gap between high school and the start of a meaningful career.  The majority of people with intellectual or developmental disabilities remain either unemployed or underemployed despite their ability, desire, and willingness to work. 

Servons (to serve), is a motto to student life at Cate School, shares Director of Community Engagement, Will Homes.  Although volunteering for public service hours is not required, like at most public schools, Cate focuses on giving back as a tradition and is available to students by choice.  Cate’s Public Service Night program, which has evolved since the 1980’s, consists of a group of 5-7 high school students, that volunteer weekly at a number of local organizations and have the opportunity to engage with agency participants in games and other enrichment activities. 

Together, UCP WORK, Inc. and the community of people with disabilities are feeling the tremendous impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. At UCP WORK, Inc., our top priority continues to be the health and safety of our constituents.

UCP WORK Inc. is committed to the health and safety of all our program participants and staff.  As such, we continue to closely monitor the developments related to the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) from our local county Public Health Departments and the Centers for Disease Control.     

Did you know that wearing green in March isn’t just for St. Patrick’s Day, because it also represents National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month. Observing CP Awareness Month represents the power of diversity, the importance of inclusion, and allows us to educate and bring awareness on how individuals living with cerebral palsy can live independently, work, and make their own decisions.

Congratulations to Sara Ostrowski for her current paid internship position, that will soon transition into permanent employment, with the Independent Living Resource Center of the Tri-Counties in May, 2020!

With nearly 30 years of experience working with people with developmental disabilities in varying programs throughout Santa Barbara, Dan Weisman, current Job Coach with UCP WORK, Inc., also knows his way around the kitchen. Food-safety certified and self-taught Chef, he is responsible for the program development, instruction, and operations of the agency’s weekly Cooking Class for adults with disabilities, part of the Santa Barbara Applied Abilities Program. There, Chef Dan, as he’s called by his students, coordinates and teaches menu preparation, time management, food-handling and kitchen safety skills, to a group of twelve participants every Wednesday from 9:00AM - 2:00PM.

Erin Ziegler is a student pursuing art classes at Santa Barbara Art Works in downtown’s arts district.  Despite the stigma often surrounding people with developmental disabilities, she is independent, socially expressive, and passionate about creating and selling her unique artwork. Through the support services of UCP WORK, Inc., Erin’s employment opportunity in the field of art, highlights the purpose and importance of integration and inclusion for individuals with disabilities. 

It is our pleasure to announce the recipient of the UCP WORK, Inc. 20 Year Anniversary award, Renee DeLauer, Director of Independent & Supported Living Services in Santa Maria!

We are pleased to announce the promotion of Kevin Smith to Director of Program Services for UCP WORK, Inc. Kevin joined the agency in 2010, during which time he has held several positions within the organization. Most currently, he has worked as the Employment Services Manager, successfully overseeing the employment contract with the City of Santa Barbara Waterfront Department for many years.