UCP WORK, Inc. Blog

Chris Mires is a talented self-taught illustrator and cartoon artist, but shares that he has had challenges finding employment opportunities that fit his unique needs. “I didn’t have the confidence when interviewing for a job. I didn’t think I could teach, nor did I think I could make a career in art,” said Chris, but through the support of the Employment Services at UCP WORK, Inc., and in collaboration with the Department of Rehabilitation, Chris was offered a paid internship at Santa Barbara Art Works arts studio.

“Princess” Reiko Karl had never painted or participated in any type of art class before attending Santa Barbara Art Works. Through the support of UCP WORK, Inc., she’s been coming to the Integrated Arts Program for 2 years, having started at the studio’s previous location, Sundial Artsfe. She feels the experience has really changed her life, “I used to think I was just going to end up at home doing nothing, but here at program, I get to learn all types of art, like using a grid to plan out my drawings, and how to mix and blend colors.” Reiko also stated that she appreciates the exercise she gets by walking to class and that students are given the opportunity to go out into the community for field trips.

Brian MacLaren is both a resident artist and employee at Santa Barbara Art Works, UCP WORK, Inc.’s arts business and program serving artists with disabilities. He has worked within the studio at least three years and was hired for his talent and experience as a watercolor artist, as well as, his knowledge of beginning to intermediate art techniques.

Chris Benedict is a 37-year-old individual with cerebral palsy working independently as a DJ in Santa Barbara, California, and is served through the Business Support Program of UCP WORK, Inc., a service and job placement provider for adults with disabilities on the Central Coast.

Congress designates each October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). In an effort to educate our followers about issues related to disability and employment, UCP WORK, Inc. is sharing "on the job" stories of individuals placed through its Employment Services, featuring that employee's unique skills, and including the many hiring benefits for employers. We celebrate NDEAM and the fact that it's what a person can do on the job that matters.

UCP WORK, Inc. can help businesses learn how to be inclusive of people with disabilities, benefit from a wider pool of talent and skills, and tap into a growing market, since people with disabilities represent the third largest market segment in the U.S. 

Observed each October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month celebrates the contributions of workers with disabilities and educates about the value of a workforce inclusive of their skills and talents. It is agencies like UCP WORK, Inc. that continue to emphasize the essential role people with disabilities play in the economic success of the workplace and our communities.  UCP WORK, Inc. works everyday with local businesses to further strengthen independence, job skills training, and integrated employment growth for all persons served. To educate our followers about our commitment to an inclusive work culture, UCP WORK, Inc. will be highlighting individuals we serve who work independently and successfully in integrated employment positions throughout the Tri-County. Look for NDEAM featured blog stories each week!

UCP WORK, Inc. is honored to announce that as of September 17, 2019, Santa Barbara Art Works has been awarded a Community Arts Grant on behalf of the City of Santa Barbara and the County Office of Arts and Culture for the 2019-2020 cycle.

Today's UCP WORK, Inc. Staff Spotlight is on Samantha Demangate, new Case Manager, at Applied Abilities Program in the Westside Neighborhood Center, Santa Barbara location. She is responsible for assisting, developing and achieving the goals of all persons served in the agency's South County area. Learn more about Samantha and her valuable role at UCP WORK, Inc with this Q&A...

Did you know that the UCP WORK, Inc. Group Supported Employment Program brings people with developmental disabilities together with similar interests and training needs, places them in supported work sites, and fulfills contracts with public agencies and private companies? The program participants benefit by working in a supported community atmosphere and by earning a meaningful wage.