UCP Affiliates are leaders in their communities providing innovative programs and services every day for more than 154,049 children and adults with disabilities on an annual basis. Each Affiliate is a separate 501(c)3 organization with its own leadership and Board of Directors. By becoming an affiliate of UCP, you join 56 domestic affiliates and 2 Canadian organizations across the country in a network of mutual support and innovation connected through and affiliated with UCP’s National Office in Washington, D.C.

The Affiliate Network is diverse in their budget size ($125,000 to $260 million), the services they offer and individuals served. They provide a wide range of services for individuals including those with cerebral palsy, complex medical needs and intellectual and developmental disabilities. Those services may include but are limited to: housing, therapies, assistive technology training, early intervention services, individual and family support, social and recreational programs, community living, state and local referrals, employment, employment assistance and advocacy. Approximately 35% of the individuals served by affiliates have cerebral palsy.

An Affiliate Portal is in the process of being developed so that affiliates will have secure access to information specific to UCP affiliates.

If your non-profit organization is dedicated to serving the needs of individuals with disabilities, has a mission that fits with the UCP mission and has a budget size of a minimum of $125,000 please contact Anita Porco, aporco@ucp.org or 202-973-7166 to begin a discussion.

For those organizations that are considering starting a non-profit organization to serve those with disabilities, these are some things to consider:

• Establish a board of 10-15 people who can raise the funds necessary to sustain the operations of your organization and have the business expertise to grow the organization.
• Be able to identify any and all appropriate funding streams including fundraising activities.
• Be able to raise the necessary start-up funds within a reasonable period of time. It usually takes 18-24 months to raise sufficient funds to open.
• Have the support of the community.
• Be prepared to undertake the ongoing responsibilities of fundraising and fiscal management.
• Be housed in a physical space of at least 1500 to 2000 square feet.
• Ensure that the services you provide are not in competition with other providers but rather enhance the services available for people with disabilities.