About UCP’s Public Policy

United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) was founded in 1949, when parents of children with cerebral palsy came together looking for help, answers and information. The spirit of that watershed moment has permeated UCP’s policy efforts from the organization’s inception.

Since its founding, UCP has been a voice for issues important to people with disabilities. In the 1950s and ’60s, UCP raised awareness about horrific living conditions in state institutions, leading to the liberation of thousands of people with disabilities from institutional living nationwide.  Not only did UCP shine a light on this injustice, its affiliate network created new housing and support solutions to ensure greater independence and full citizenship for people with disabilities.

That combination of advocacy, strategic policy direction and providing services that maximize independence is the hallmark of UCP’s efforts to this day.

We’re still pushing for opportunities, protections and public policies that ensure fair and full citizenship for people with a range of disabilities and their families. We hope you’ll join us!