Since taking the helm in 2016, Roger Slingerman has been a transformative force at United Cerebral Palsy of Central California (UCPCC). As executive director, he has led the organization through a period of remarkable growth, expanding both the reach and impact of its services across the Central Valley. With a budget that has grown from $4.2 million to $11.5 million, a staff that has nearly doubled, and transportation services that now provide over 350,000 rides annually, Roger’s leadership is nothing short of extraordinary.
He also serves on UCP’s Board of Trustees, helping to shape national conversations around advocacy, program development, and strategic growth for people with disabilities.
Expanding Disability Services Across Central California
UCPCC supports more than 1,100 individuals across seven counties — Fresno, Merced, Madera, Mariposa, Kings, Kern, and Tulare — providing programs for children and adults with cerebral palsy, autism, Down syndrome, traumatic brain injuries, and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Under Roger’s leadership, the organization has scaled not only in size but also in capability.
In 2021, UCPCC acquired a new building to further expand services. Among the key renovation milestones was the installation of a new elevator, enhancing accessibility and enabling the use of the second floor, which is soon to house the administrative team. This investment supports UCPCC’s mission to increase capacity from 200 to over 350 adult participants in the coming years.
A Career Built on Experience, Leadership, and Inclusion
Roger’s career reflects decades of commitment to disability advocacy, nonprofit management, and inclusive sports programming. Before joining UCPCC, he held senior roles across impactful organizations:
- Executive Director, UCP of Stanislaus and Tuolumne Counties
- Executive Director, Recreational Sports Club of San Joaquin Inc.
- Vice President of Sports, Special Olympics Northern California
- Associate Director of Programs, Special Olympics Connecticut
- Director of Training and New Sports Development, Special Olympics Kentucky
- Assistant Director of Recreational Sports, Old Dominion University
His 13-year tenure with the Special Olympics helped shape his inclusive, team-first leadership style. Roger draws on his experience as an athlete, coach, and program leader — understanding the value of diverse roles and perspectives in building strong, successful teams.
“You can’t have all quarterbacks,” Roger says. “Everyone has a role and a defined purpose. When people know that, the whole team thrives.”
Strategic Thinking Amid Challenges
Despite impressive achievements, Roger remains focused on solving some of the most pressing issues in the disability services sector: staffing shortages and limited reimbursement rates. These challenges impact program expansion and service quality across California, but Roger’s pragmatic approach and dedication to continuous improvement allow UCPCC to push forward with strategic, sustainable solutions.
Deep Community Engagement and Leadership
Roger is also a respected community leader, involved in numerous civic and professional organizations:
- Chair, UCP’s West Regional Administrator Council
- Past Chair, Vendor Advisory Committee – Central Valley Regional Center
- Member, Downtown Fresno Rotary
- President, Presentation School PTA
A graduate of Old Dominion University, Roger lives in Clovis, California, with his wife, Monica, and their two sons, Rynear and Rory. His leadership is as much about compassion and collaboration as it is about operational excellence.
Leading with Vision and Heart
Roger’s work at UCPCC and his position on UCP’s Board of Trustees underscore a career rooted in purpose, people, and progress. With a passion for expanding opportunities for individuals with disabilities and a proven track record of impactful leadership, he continues to shape a stronger, more inclusive Central California — and beyond.
Thank you, Roger, for your service and for being a voice of hope, strategy, and inclusion for the disability community.
