Chris Martin’s professional path reflects a deep and enduring commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities. Since 2012, she has held various roles at UCP of Stanislaus County, rising through the ranks to become executive director. What began as a spontaneous entry into the field as a direct support professional (DSP) quickly blossomed into a lifelong mission of service and advocacy.
“I had no idea this field even existed,” Chris shares. “But once I started working with UCP members, I knew this was where I belonged.”
Fostering Self-Advocacy and Community Impact
Chris’s work with the CHOICES Institute has been pivotal in shaping her advocacy philosophy. “The best advocates are the individuals themselves,” she explains. “Our role is to support from the passenger seat, not take the wheel.”
A shining example of this philosophy is Cheyenne, a UCP program participant who transitioned from day services into micro-entrepreneurship, self-advocacy, and employment. Through UCP’s support, Cheyenne now runs several small businesses, advocates for inclusive housing, and even spoke at a statewide conference to inspire others.
Programs That Make a Difference
Under Chris’s guidance, UCP of Stanislaus County continues to expand its reach through initiatives like:
- Internship partnerships with local businesses: Connecting individuals to real-world work experiences
- Family and caregiver integration: Ensuring holistic, personalized support
- Self-advocacy training: Encouraging individuals to find and use their voices
Chris measures success not just through metrics but through milestones — participants earning their first paycheck, mastering a new skill, or confidently navigating independent living.
Leadership Rooted in Family and Community
Based in Turlock, California, Chris is deeply embedded in her local community. Whether volunteering or participating in local service initiatives, she brings the same passion for inclusion into every aspect of her life.
Balancing her role as executive director with family life, including her husband, two children, and their Yorkie, Bella, is central to her leadership style. She draws inspiration from parenting, shaping a leadership approach that prioritizes empathy, respect, and person-centered care.
“When I train new DSPs, I ask them to care as if this were their own family member,” she says. “That mindset changes everything.”
Vision for the Future: Empowerment, Inclusion, and Sustainability
Looking ahead, Chris is excited about broadening UCP’s programs and partnerships. Key areas of focus include:
- Expanding supported employment opportunities through business collaboration
- Enhancing volunteer engagement for broader community impact
- Increasing access to inclusive housing models inspired by statewide innovations
Her advice for future leaders in disability services?
“Know the people you serve. That connection is where quality begins.”
A Trusted Voice on the UCP Board of Trustees
Chris Martin also serves on the UCP Board of Trustees, where her insights and leadership help shape the organization’s strategic direction. Her unique perspective — grounded in both hands-on experience and high-level vision — ensures that every decision is rooted in compassion, advocacy, and a deep understanding of the communities UCP serves.
