For Immediate Release: May 10, 2012

Contact: Kristina Gawrgy Campbell; 202 467-6144; KristinaC@IndependentSector.org

Independent Sector Announces the Selection of 2012 American Express NGen Fellows

(Washington, DC)—Independent Sector is pleased to honor the 12 outstanding under-40 leaders from IS member organizations that comprise the 2012 American Express NGen Fellows Program. In its fourth year, this selective fellowship program continues to build the next generation of nonprofit and philanthropic leaders as part of IS’s NGen: Moving Nonprofit Leaders from Next to Now initiative.

The 2012 American Express NGen Fellows are:

• Ellie Buteau, Vice President-Research, The Center for Effective Philanthropy, Cambridge, MA• Tammy Gregory, Vice President, Quality and Health IT, American Heart Association, Dallas, TX
• Michael Hill, Senior Vice President of External Affairs, United Cerebral Palsy, Washington, DC
• David Lee, Policy Advocate, Feeding America, Chicago, IL
• Katherine Michonski, Director, Business Council on Climate Change, San Francisco, CA
• Dara Munson, President & CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Detroit, MI
• Alejandro T. Reyes, Counsel, Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, Washington, DC
• David Ringer, Media Relations Director, National Audubon Society, New York, NY
• Jennifer Sigler, CFO/COO, GlobalGiving Foundation, Washington, DC
• Eric Stowe, Founder & Executive Director, A Child’s Right, Seattle, WA
• Lindsay Torrico, Manager, Public Policy, United Way Worldwide, Alexandria, VA
• Vivian Vasallo, Vice President, Housing, AARP Foundation, Washington, DC

The American Express NGen Fellows program gives emerging leaders an exceptional opportunity to strengthen their capacity for future impact. Over the course of nine months, fellows collaborate with other talented under-40 leaders, interact with established mentors, and contribute to Independent Sector's work on nonprofit impact and leadership.

“Each year, I am impressed by the caliber of extraordinary young leaders selected for the American Express NGen Fellows program,” said Diana Aviv, president and CEO of Independent Sector. “I look forward to welcoming these talented leaders to our highest echelons, learning from them, and partnering with them to improve life for all.”

The American Express NGen Fellows Program offers these twelve professionals a rare opportunity to strengthen their capacity for future impact. Its programming, anchored by the IS Annual Conference, offers a comprehensive program that develops fellows’ capacity to lead in turbulent times, strengthens their professional networks, and elevates NGen accomplishments on a national level. Over the course of their fellowship, they will also embark on a major keystone project that will positively impact the sector.

“The nonprofit sector plays a critically important role in addressing many of today’s biggest challenges,” said Timothy J. McClimon, president of the American Express Foundation. “Independent Sector and the

NGen Fellows Program offer a great way to focus on strategies that can develop the next generation of leaders and help nonprofits deliver on their full potential to serve the communities in which we all live and work.”

The program runs August 1, 2012 to April 30, 2013, anchored by the IS Annual Conference on November 11-12 in San Francisco.

American Express, the lead sponsor of the American Express NGen Fellows Program, is a major contributor to the development of emerging nonprofit leaders through their Foundation’s philanthropic giving initiative committed to leadership.

Learn more about the American Express NGen Fellows Program.

Read the bios for each of the 2012 American Express NGen Fellows.

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Independent Sector is a leadership network of 600 nonprofits, foundations, and corporate giving programs committed to advancing the common good. Our nonpartisan coalition leads, strengthens, and mobilizes the sector; we advocate for public policies that fortify our communities; and we create unparalleled resources so staff, boards, and volunteers can further their missions and increase their impact. IndependentSector.org.

American Express is a global services company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Learn more at americanexpress.com and connect with us on facebook.com/americanexpress, twitter.com/americanexpress and youtube.com/americanexpress.

One of American Express' three philanthropic platforms, Developing New Leaders for Tomorrow, recognizes the significance of strong leadership in the nonprofit sector. American Express is making grants focused on training high potential emerging leaders to tackle important issues in the 21st century.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS: 
Lauren Cozzi: 202-973-7114, Alicia Kubert Smith: 202-973-7168, 

CIRCLE K FLORIDA DONATES MORE THAN HALF A MILLION DOLLARS TO
UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY AFFILIATES IN FLORIDA 

Presentation at annual fundraising event underscores support 
for people with disabilities in Florida communities

Fort Myers, Fla. (May 10, 2012) – Circle K Florida, the largest corporate supporter of United Cerebral Palsy (UCP), presented UCP affiliates with an oversized check for $552,837.73 during an awards dinner and ceremony at the company’s FishStix 2012, an annual golf and fishing tournament at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa in Fort Myers, Florida. The amount represents the proceeds that were raised from last year’s FishStix event and funds raised through canister donations and other in-store promotions from June 2011 - March 2012.

The check presentation ceremony included Circle K Florida executives, Regional Operations Directors and Store Managers; UCP executives from the Florida affiliates that benefit from Circle K Florida donations; and executives and staff from UCP’s national office in Washington, DC.

UCP shared a special video highlighting UCP clients from six UCP Florida affiliates that were featured in UCP and Circle K’s “Adopt a Child/Adopt a Life” campaign this year. The campaign celebrates and promotes the tremendous difference that Circle K has made in communities across Florida by featuring the story and photo of a UCP client on each coin collection canister that lives in the region that that particular store serves. The campaign helps emphasize that Circle K customers who donate at the register are supporting those in their immediate community.

“Without Circle K’s support, there are many types of services that we provide that we couldn’t continue to provide. Circle K Florida has such a huge impact – hundreds of thousands of people are impacted by their support, just in our territory alone,” said Craig Byrd, Executive Director of UCP of East Central Florida, in the video. 

“Circle K Florida cares deeply about the communities where we have stores and operate,” explained Darrell Davis, Vice President of Circle K Florida. “It is paramount for Circle K Florida to give back to the people that we serve, and our decades-long partnership with UCP will continue to raise funds that serve local people with disabilities, making Florida communities stronger and inclusive of everyone.”

“UCP is grateful to Circle K Florida for its unwavering support of our affiliates serving people with disabilities in their local communities,” said UCP President & CEO, Stephen Bennett. “The partnership with Circle K Florida is unlike any other corporate partnership, because Circle K Florida’s culture has made fundraising for UCP a part of the company culture for thousands of Circle K employees over decades, significantly furthering UCP’s mission to advance independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities.”

Acclaimed actress, comedian, author and disability advocate Geri Jewell was on hand to entertain attendees and celebrate the importance of Circle K Florida’s partnership with UCP. Ms. Jewell is best known as Cousin Geri on the NBC sitcom, “The Facts of Life” and was the first person with a disability to have a regular role on a prime time series. She began her career doing stand up comedy at the Comedy Store in 1978.

After her ground breaking role on “The Facts of Life,” she has appeared on such shows as “The Great Space Coaster,” the Emmy award-winning movie Two of a Kind, “Sesame Street,” “21 Jump Street,” “The Young and the Restless,” “Strong Medicine,” and the HBO hit series, “Deadwood.” Ms. Jewell just recently released her autobiography, I’m Walking As Straight as I Can: Transcending Disability in Hollywood and Beyond. Just this week, the book was acknowledged with a first place prize in the memoirs category of the Independent Publisher Book Awards.

Ms. Jewell entertained the audience with stories from her varied career in Hollywood and experiences as a person with a disability. She emphasized that the real disabilities in life are prejudice, negativity and hatred.

UCP-Circle K Partnership
When the Circle K Corporation purchased the UtoteM chain of convenience stores in 1984, Circle K management adopted UCP as the company’s designated charity. Today, UCP remains Circle K’s charity of choice in the Florida and Gulf regions. Circle K stands as UCP’s largest corporate sponsor, having raised more than $40 million over the life of the partnership through coin collection canisters at retail sites and with special events like golf tournaments, casual days, bake sales and car washes.

Circle K and UCP use campaigns that aim to deepen Circle K Florida’s connection to the community and increase support for the UCP affiliates in the region. The “Adopt a Child/Adopt a Life” campaign helps to celebrate and promote the tremendous difference that Circle K Florida has made in communities across Florida. Each coin collection canister in every Circle K Florida store features the story and photo of a UCP client living in the region, which each particular store serves. Circle K Florida customers donating at the register see a true example of one of the many UCP clients that their donation helps to support in the immediate community.                               

This type of targeted campaign that ties donors to outcomes is designed to trumpet the good work of Circle K as a community partner and good corporate citizen. At the same time, it raises public awareness of UCP and the services it provides to people with disabilities, and raise crucial funds that will change their lives for the better. View all canister inserts online at: ucp.org/get-involved/whysupport/circle-k-adopt-a-child-adopt-a-life-campaign.

The “Be a Star” campaign, ran last fall through the holiday season, whereby Circle K Florida patrons were able to purchase a “star” that includes coupons for in-store use on select products. The stars hung throughout the stores to help raise awareness of Circle K’s support of UCP, visualize the significant impact people can have in the lives of people with disabilities in their communities, and encourage other customers to support. This campaign reinforced Circle K Florida’s philosophy of giving back to the communities of which they are a part, by inspiring individuals to support those in their community who need it most.

UCP presented Circle K with its 2011 Chair Award in recognition of a partnership that has spanned three decades and seen the convenience store chain donate tens of millions of dollars to the charity. The Chair Award is UCP’s highest honor and is given by the Chair of UCP’s National Board of Trustees for exemplary commitment to UCP’s mission, as part of UCP’s annual Awards for Excellence, presented to UCP affiliates, individuals and companies whose exceptional activities, achievements and dedication exemplify the UCP mission.

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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.

MEDIA ADVISORY

CONTACTS: 
Lauren Cozzi: 202-973-7114, Alicia Kubert Smith: 202-973-7168, 

Actors Honor Awards Recipients at UCP Annual Conference

Recognizing People and Companies that Exemplify
Life Without Limits for People with Disabilities

Emmy-nominated actress Cheryl Hines, of ABC’s Suburgatory & HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm

Meredith Eaton, of ABC’s Boston Legal & granddaughter of UCP founder

Washington, DC (April 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) – an international advocate, educating and providing support services for children and adults with a spectrum of disabilities – welcomes Emmy-nominated actress Cheryl Hines, a UCP Celebrity Ambassador and member of the national Board of Trustees, and actress Meredith Eaton, well known for her breakout role in the ABC hit series Boston Legal, and granddaughter of one of UCP's founders, Nina Eaton, at the UCP Awards for Excellence dinner during UCP’s 2012 Annual Conference, Transitioning to Tomorrow, Friday, April 27, 6:30-10:00 p.m., Grand Hyatt Washington, 1000 H Street NW, Washington, DC.

WHO:      Cheryl Hines, Emmy-nominated actress, UCP Celebrity Ambassador and member of the UCP Board of Trustees; and actress Meredith Eaton, well known for her breakout role in the ABC hit series Boston Legal, and granddaughter of one of UCP's founders, Nina Eaton.                                                        

WHAT:    Each year, the UCP Awards for Excellence are presented to affiliates, individuals and companies whose exceptional activities, achievements and dedication exemplify the UCP mission to educate, advocate and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities.

Hines will co-host the Awards for Excellence dinner and celebration along with UCP Board Chair, Bruce Merlin Friend. Eaton will represent her family for a tribute to her grandmother, Nina Eaton. Nina was a founding member of the New York State Cerebral Palsy Association in 1946, which evolved into UCP in 1949. She remained an active leader in the disability community, and served on the Board of Directors of UCP of Suffolk for 20 years, on the UCP national Board of Trustees, and most recently as an Emeritus board member, up until her passing, last month.

WHEN:   Friday, April 27, 2012, 6:30-10:00 p.m. ET

WHERE:      Grand Hyatt Washington, 1000 H Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

PRESS:  For press interested in covering the Awards for Excellence, interviews and additional information, contact Lauren Cozzi, .

* Included is a photo of UCP Celebrity Ambassadors, Cheryl Hines and RJ Mitte with students from the Villanova University social justice film class, who were recipients of the UCP 2011 Outstanding Youth Award.

About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:
Lauren Cozzi: 202-973-7114, Alicia Kubert Smith: 202-973-7168,

UCP Launches New Online Resource for Kids & Parents

Overhaul of Brave Kids portal second phase of new Public Education & Outreach efforts

Washington, DC (April 11, 2012) – When Kristen Fitzgerald lost two of her children to catastrophic illnesses, she pledged to redirect the anguish of her tragic experiences toward easing the suffering of seriously ill children and helping parents avoid the struggle of finding resources and emotional support for their own children. She founded “Brave Kids,” an online portal for information and support, and now, almost 12 years later to the day, United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) has molded Fitzgerald’s vision of love into a powerful new resource for kids and parents, adding the perspective of people with disabilities.

Brave Kids was launched in the San Francisco Bay Area during March 2000. The Brave Kids website rolled out nationwide in 2002, in collaboration with the University of California, San Francisco; the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital; and a number of corporate sponsors. Following the launch, Brave Kids donated resource centers to pediatric wards of hospitals located in California and Florida. UCP took ownership of the website in 2011, and is proud to carry on the legacy of Brave Kids by providing the information, resources and support that visitors and users have come to trust and rely upon.

The new Brave Kids (bravekids.org) is an encyclopedic resource for children, youth and teens ages 6-17 with chronic/life-threatening illnesses and disabilities, their families and caregivers, providing information and resources on numerous disabilities, medical conditions and genetic diseases. It includes a secure online community for parents and caregivers to share ideas, gain support and have conversations about issues relevant to this group.  Brave Kids is a part of UCP’s new Public Education & Outreach initiative, which aims to provide vital support and information to people with their disabilities and their families during key moments of transition. For more information, visit ucp.org/publiced.

“UCP is proud to couple UCP’s strong tradition of serving people with disabilities and their families with Kristen Fitzgerald’s vision that no parent should feel alone in times of grief and struggle,” said Stephen Bennett, UCP President & CEO. “Brave Kids is a critical piece of UCP’s Public Education & Outreach initiatives, which guide people with disabilities and caregivers through the entire life cycle. UCP is delighted to relaunch Brave Kids and deliver regularly updated news and content through the resource.”

Brave Kids provides the following:

1.       Information, resources and a support community. In addition to detailed information about health and wellness, family and caregivers can sign up for a monthly newsletter and connect with Brave Kids on social media platforms by following Brave Kids on Twitter and Facebook. Users will also stay up to date on current issues. An important part of Brave Kids is the secure support community of individuals whose common experiences help to build connections are share information.

2.       A place for kids, youth and teenagers 6-17, to get information to lead fuller, richer lives. The special Just for Kids section helps young people access information that helps them lead a life without limits, giving tips and tools about growing up in today's world. The website is specifically created to be simple for both children/teens and adults to navigate.

3.       A vital link in UCP’s continuum of transitions initiatives that span the entire life cycle. UCP’s Public Education & Outreach (PEO) efforts provide people with disabilities, their families and caregivers with support, resources and information throughout all stages of life for a life without limits. This is part of UCP’s mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with a spectrum of disabilities.

Brave Kids would not have been possible without generous donations from the Medtronic Foundation and Shionogi. Inc. “We could not have brought Brave Kids to a wider audience without the support of these two key partners,” Bennett said. “Both understand the importance of quality, objective information to parents and caregivers and care deeply about the future lives of those we serve.”

For more information on how you can support Brave Kids or any of UCP’s Public Education & Outreach efforts, please contact Nick Pietras, Manager of Strategic Partnership & Events, at .

About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:
Lauren Cozzi: 202-973-7114, Alicia Kubert Smith: 202-973-7168,

UCP Celebrates Life & Accomplishments of Founder and Board Member, Nina Eaton

Entire disability community mourns loss of dedicated, accomplished colleague

Washington, DC (April 2, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) -- an international advocate, educating and providing support services for children and adults with a spectrum of disabilities -- mourns the loss of Nina Eaton, one UCP’s founders, an Emeritus member of the Board of Trustees, and a longtime supporter and advocate for people with disabilities, who passed away on Friday, March 30.      

“UCP is saddened to lose such a tremendous advocate whose life’s work has been integral to advancing the civil rights movement for people with disabilities,” said Stephen Bennett, UCP President & CEO. “Nina was an amazing woman and will be greatly missed among the UCP family and disability advocates. Our deepest sympathies go to the entire Eaton family.”

A funeral service was held at Boulevard-Riverside-Hewlett Chapel, 1450 Broadway, Hewlett, New York 11557, this morning, and the family will be sitting Shiva on Monday and Tuesday at 8 Hazel Place, Woodmere, New York 11598. Cards and notes of condolence can be sent to the Eaton family, 543 Derby Avenue, Woodmere, New York 11598.

Eaton’s son, Leonard Eaton, was born with cerebral palsy in 1941 and led his young, uncertain mother towards a lifetime of advocacy for people with disabilities. Eaton and other parents, including UCP founders Leonard and Isabelle Goldenson along with Jack and Ethel Hausman, laid the foundation for a far-reaching organization that has enhanced the lives of millions of Americans with disabilities. More than a half century later, UCP is an international network of nearly 100 affiliates serving more than 176,000 people with disabilities and their families on a daily basis.

Eaton was a founding member of the New York State Cerebral Palsy Association in 1946. As the organization evolved into UCP in 1949, Eaton helped educate communities about cerebral palsy, which, like most developmental disabilities at the time, carried significant social stigma. She is well known for her persistent lobbying, leading to regional and national expansion of community-based services for people with disabilities.

Eaton remained an active leader in the disability community, and served on the Board of Directors of UCP of Suffolk for the past 20 years. She also served on the UCP national Board of Trustees and most recently as an Emeritus board member. 

UCP honors an affiliate with the Nina Eaton Program of the Year Award, as part of the UCP Awards for Excellence, on an annual basis. The UCP affiliate award winners are honored for making an extraordinary contribution to the quality of life to people with disabilities through the delivery of state-of-the art direct services in the affiliate's community. Award recipients are chosen based on affiliates’ ability to enable the individuals served to become more independent, productive or integrated into the family or community, and the programs stand out as a model worthy of replication by other UCP affiliates. Eaton loved the Awards for Excellence presentations and served as the Emcee for many years. She added her charm and wit to the evening of celebrating the accomplishments of UCP affiliates and individuals, in multiple categories.

“Nina was so much a part of our history and our lives,” said Stephen H. Friedman, President and CEO, UCP of Suffolk. “The lives of individuals with disabilities will be forever enriched because of her legacy. I know you all join me in extending sincere sympathy to the Eaton family.”

About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:
Lauren Cozzi, 202-973-7114,  
Alicia Kubert Smith, 202-973-7168, 

DC RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT LEADER CHOSEN TO HEAD UCP’S TECHNOLOGY EFFORTS

Irlandez to launch Life Labs, Strengthen Life Without Limits Initiative

Washington, DC (December 16, 2011) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP), an international service provider and advocate for children and adults with a spectrum of disabilities, has appointed Marc Irlandez, a technologist with more than a decade’s long track-record of successfully producing innovative technology solutions for complex problems, as its new Director of Technology. Irlandez starts with UCP on December 21, 2011.

Irlandez has served in District of Columbia’s Office of the Chief Technology Officer since 2008, during which he held positions as head of OCTO Labs and Director of Research and Development. During his tenure, he was accountable for initiatives supporting innovation with new technologies within all DC government agencies. At UCP, he will lead a team implementing Life Labs, UCP’s Research and Development Program designed to harness technology to create innovative solutions for people with disabilities, and will implement a technology plan to serve UCP’s 84 affiliates while helping to implement technology solutions for UCP’s public education and outreach and Life Without Limits initiatives.

“We are thrilled to welcome Marc to the UCP family at this important time in the organization’s history,” said Stephen Bennett, President and Chief Executive Officer of UCP. “Marc brings a wealth of experience in using technology to help people connect with one another, which is core to the mission of UCP.”

Prior to serving in city government, Irlandez was a Senior Developer with Zenoss, an Annapolis, Md.-based technology firm; a Consulting Engineer with Opsware/HP in New York City; and a Computer Scientist and Project Leader at the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, DC. He has also head technology leadership positions at AOL/Time Warner, wellspent.org, the Economist Magazine/CFO.com, Learning In Progress, the Sapient Corporation and Magnet Interactive. He holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science from The George Washington University.

“I am excited to join UCP and to be entrusted with its technology vision,” Irlandez said. “I believe in UCP’s mission and that Life Labs will become a model of how technology can transform lives in meaningful ways.”

About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:
Lauren Cozzi: 202-973-7114 (direct),
Alicia Kubert Smith: 202-973-7168 (direct),

Disability Provider and Advocate Unveils New Public Education & Outreach Initiative, Celebrates Opening of New National Headquarters in DC

Luncheon Forum Explores Issues of Transition

Washington, DC (Nov. 30, 2011) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP), an international service provider and advocate for children and adults with a spectrum of disabilities, unveiled its new Public Education & Outreach initiative and celebrated the opening of a new national headquarters in Washington, DC with a luncheon forum exploring issues of transition for people with disabilities.

During the Luncheon Forum, co-hosted with Disability Power & Pride, a distinguished panel of speakers discussed key transition issues in the lives of people with disabilities, including the transition from early childhood to teen years, post-secondary education, employment, independent living and long-term care needs.

Watch the recorded video clips of the panel presentation from featured speakers:

• Richard Donovan, CEO and principal owner of Integrated Process Solutions LLC (IPS)
• Connie Garner, Policy Director in the Government Strategies Practice Group, and Executive Director for Advance CLASS, Inc.
• Seth Harris, Deputy Secretary of Labor 

“UCP affiliates provide key support for families and individuals across the globe during moments of transition in life,” said Stephen Bennett, UCP President & Chief Executive Officer. “We are excited to add significant new national information and networking resources for people with disabilities through our new Public Education & Outreach initiatives and hope that these tools spark a national dialogue about ways we can all help create a life without limits for people with disabilities.”

Resources:

• Learn more about UCP’s new Public Education & Outreach initiative.
• Take a virtual video tour of the NEW UCP national office.
• View photos on Facebook.
• Watch the panel presentation.

About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

UCP Contacts:
Lauren Cozzi, 202-973-7114,  
Alicia Kubert Smith, 202-973-7168, 

AAPD Contacts:
Lara Schwartz, 202-521-4309, Frankie Mastrangelo, 202-521-4308,      

Disability Groups Respond to Supercommittee Failure

Joint Statement by Mark Perriello of the American Association of People with Disabilities and Stephen Bennett, United Cerebral Palsy

Washington, D.C. (November 21, 2011) -- "Since the Supercommittee was formed, Americans from all walks of life have spoken loud and clear: we support tangible, responsible solutions that preserve opportunity. The budget debate has moved from the Supercommittee to party leaders and back again, and has now apparently ground to a halt. Rigid adherence to ideology is again coming at the expense of every-day Americans who need their representatives to get something done. Instead of solutions, we’re left with uncertainty about the future. Today, real people who are already making do with very little are left to wonder if deficit reduction will result in opportunity reduction. Today’s news has not changed the fact that we need to protect our fiscal future and our national security while at the same time preserving essential lifelines for people with disabilities."

Stephen Bennett is the President and CEO of United Cerebral Palsy, and Mark Perriello is the President and CEO of the American Association of People with Disabilities.

About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.

About the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
The American Association of People with Disabilities is the nation's largest cross-disability organization. We promote equal opportunity, economic power, independent living, and political participation for people with disabilities. Our members, including people with disabilities and our family, friends, and supporters, represent a powerful force for change.  Visit www.AAPD.com for more information.

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MEDIA ADVISORY: Request for media coverage

CONTACTS:
Lauren Cozzi: 202-973-7114 (direct), 203-858-5292 (cell), Alicia Kubert Smith: 202-973-7168 (direct),                             

Disability Provider and Advocate Unveils and Launches
New Public Education & Outreach Initiative,
Celebrates Opening of New National Headquarters in DC with
Luncheon Forum Exploring Issues of Transition

New UCP Public Education & Outreach initiative features
four public education campaigns for people with disabilities

Washington, DC (Nov. 9, 2011) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP), an international service provider and advocate for children and adults with a spectrum of disabilities, will host a Luncheon Forum exploring issues of transition, with co-host Disability Power & Pride, to unveil and launch UCP’s new Public Education & Outreach initiative and celebrate the opening of UCP’s new national headquarters, on Monday, November 14. UCP President & CEO, Stephen Bennett, will be available for interview.

A distinguished panel of speakers will discuss key transition issues, such as post-secondary education, employment, independent living and long-term care needs. The event is open to the public with RSVP, lunch will be provided, and attendees will have the chance to see UCP’s new offices. Complete information is available at www.ucp.org/luncheonforum.

WHO:                        UCP and Disability Power & Pride

WHAT:                      Luncheon Forum exploring issues of transition in the lives
                                   of people with disabilities

WHEN:                      Monday, November 14, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
                                   Panel begins at 12:00 noon

WHERE:                   UCP’s NEW offices 
                                  1825 K St. NW, Suite 600
                                  Washington, DC 20006

PRESS RSVP:         To attend, cover or schedule an interview: ,
                                   

GENERAL RSVP:     Open to public with RSVP to (space is limited) 

For more information about UCP’s new Public Education & Outreach initiative, visit www.ucp.org/about/programs-initiatives/peo.

About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.

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Media Advisory

Contacts:
UCP: Lauren Cozzi, 202-973-7114, & Alicia Kubert Smith, 202-973-7168, AAPD: Lara Schwartz, 202-521-4309, 

Representatives from Interfaith Religious Community & Disability Organizations Host Web Chat Discussing Importance of Medicaid for People with Disabilities

Washington, DC (November 8, 2011) - the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), United Cerebral Palsy (UCP), and the Interfaith Disability Advocacy Coalition (IDAC) – a diverse, nonpartisan coalition of religious and religiously affiliated organizations whose core spiritual values affirm the rights and dignity of people with disabilities – will host a public web chat to discuss current deficit reduction strategies while representing a broad cross-section of the nation’s various faith traditions on Thursday, November 10 at 1:30 p.m. EST.

As the US Congress Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction (the “Supercommittee”) continues to deliberate and craft proposals concerning the federal budget, it is important that the voices of the faith community be a vibrant part of the national conversation. Americans of many faiths support policies and programs that promote independence and dignity for people with disabilities. Medicaid is a tool that enables millions of Americans with disabilities to enjoy these freedoms, including contributing to their communities, families and congregations.

Participating IDAC members will share their unique perspectives about why Medicaid must be preserved for people with disabilities. The public can engage in the web chat by submitting questions to and logging in to engage in the conversation.

 WHO:            Hosted by AAPD, UCP & IDAC. Participants include Mark Perriello,
                        AAPD President and CEO; Khizer Husain of American Muslim Health
                        Professionals; and the following IDAC members:

• Meg Cooch, Director of Policy and Advocacy, Lutheran Services in America Disability Network, “When thinking about deficit reduction and balancing the budget, we must apply our faith values to possible proposals. Medicaid allows people with disabilities the opportunity to be full participants in our society by providing critical services and job supports.”
• David Feinman, Senior Legislative Associate, the Jewish Federations of North America, “Considering the challenges the ‘Supercommittee’ and the rest of the Congress face coming to a consensus on most issues, it is critical that they hear from people who want to have a constructive conversation.” 
• Maggie Mitchell Siddiqi, Islamic Society of North America, "In Islam, we are instructed to protect the dignity of every human being and provide help for those in need. As a Muslim, I believe in the importance of preserving safety net programs like Medicaid, which help people maintain their dignity and self-sufficiency.”
• Khizer Husain, Member, Task Force on Health Affordability, American Muslim Health Professionals, "My faith compels me to advocate for the neediest, particularly if it involves sacrifice."

WHAT:          Web Chat: Protecting Medicaid Across Faith Lines for People                
                       with Disabilities

WHEN:         Thursday, November 10, 2011 at 1:30 p.m. EST

WHERE:       http://bit.ly/smog5m

EMAIL:         Anyone may submit questions to

To learn more about AAPD and UCP’s joint efforts to ensure quality healthcare and access to care, please visit America’s Supercommittee at www.ucp.org/public-policy/america-s-super-committee.

About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visitwww.ucp.org.

About the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
The American Association of People with Disabilities is the nation's largest cross-disability organization. We promote equal opportunity, economic power, independent living, and political participation for people with disabilities. Our members, including people with disabilities and our family, friends, and supporters, represent a powerful force for change. Visit www.AAPD.com for more information. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:
Lauren Cozzi: 202-973-7114 (direct), Alicia Kubert Smith: 202-973-7168 (direct),        

UCP Horrified Over Video Depicting Beating of 16-Year-Old with Cerebral Palsy

Washington, DC (Nov. 4, 2011) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP), an international service provider and advocate for children and adults with a spectrum of disabilities, watched with great horror the video depicting a then-16-year-old with cerebral palsy being beaten with a belt by her father. While we don’t know all the facts of the case, there is no justification for the extreme violence depicted on this video. Too often children with disabilities encounter abuse at the hands of those who are supposed to care for them. UCP will watch with great interest the unfolding of this case in hopes that a clear message is sent that inflicting this kind of physical harm is never justified.

About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.

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Disability Etiquette for Reporters: www.ucp.org/media/tools-for-reporters

Media Coverage:

• www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/03/judge-william-adams-video-beating-daughter_n_1075284.html
• www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/02/disabled-teens-beating-judge-william-adams_n_1071822.html

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:
Lauren Cozzi: 202-973-7114 (direct), Alicia Kubert Smith: 202-973-7168 (direct),                 

CIRCLE K FLORIDA DONATES MORE THAN $1 MILLION TO INTERNATIONAL DISABILITY SERVICE PROVIDER UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY IN 2011

Check Presentation Ceremony Commemorated Signature FishStix Event,
New Statewide Campaigns Deepen Connection to Those Served

Tampa, Fla. (Nov. 3, 2011) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP), an international service provider and advocate for children and adults with a spectrum of disabilities, accepted a $332,000 check during a check presentation ceremony last week at UCP of Tampa Bay. This donation from Circle K’s Florida's FishStix event, an annual golf and fishing tournament, in addition to funds raised through canister donations throughout the year, brings Circle K Florida’s total contribution to UCP to more than $1 million in 2011. View photos at http://bit.ly/CircleK1MdonationUCP.

The check presentation ceremony included Circle K Florida and UCP executives from the Florida affiliates that benefit from Circle K Florida donations, representatives from UCP’s National office in Washington, D.C. and Circle K Florida executives, Regional Operations Directors and Store Managers.

Darrell Davis, who was appointed Vice President of Circle K’s Florida region in Spring 2011, welcomed everyone to the ceremony and explained, “At its heart, Circle K is a group of committed individuals who care deeply for the communities where we operate. For more than three decades, our partnership with UCP has been one of the most important outlets for Circle K to give back to the people we serve. We look forward to strengthening our ongoing relationship with UCP and are extremely proud to play a role in providing a life without limits for people with disabilities.”

Leaders from several UCP Florida affiliates remarked on the incredible impact Circle K’s partnership has had on the work they do every day. 

Craig Byrd, Executive Director of UCP of East Central Florida, noted that, “In these trying economic times, you hear every day how the government is able to do less and less for the people in the most need in our community. We really rely on our community partnership with Circle K to help us continue to provide services that are so critical to hundreds of people with disabilities.”

Ron Sanders, Regional Administrator for UCP of Tallahassee, explained that the Circle K support the affiliate receives helps to enhance its technology programs. “The reputation we have earned is that if you want to see high-tech technology impacting the lives of people with disabilities, go to UCP of Tallahassee. We have health care providers and legislators coming to see our work, and every single person who comes through, knows that it’s about Circle K and UCP.”

Norma Israel, Executive Director of UCP of Southwest Florida, brought one of her clients Lisa, who is featured in the “Adopt a Life” campaign. “Lisa is one of the hundreds of adults with disabilities we serve every day, which we would simply not be able to do without Circle K’s support. Because of our partnership with Circle K, Lisa is able to live on her own, care for her pets and has a job.”

Laura White, Associate Executive Director of UCP of Tampa Bay, also highlighted a client who is featured in the “Adopt a Child/Adopt a Life” campaign, six-year-old Kara. “I recently heard Kara speak in full sentences, and when Kara came to us a year and half ago, she had no words. It is just a blessing for us to have the support of Circle K, which allows us to make a difference in the lives of so many.”

UCP-Circle K Partnership
When the Circle K Corporation purchased the UtoteM chain of convenience stores in 1984, Circle K management adopted UCP as the company’s designated charity. Today, UCP remains Circle K’s charity of choice in the Florida and Gulf regions. Circle K stands as UCP’s largest corporate sponsor, having raised more than $40 million over the life of the partnership through coin collection canisters at retail sites and with special events like golf tournaments, casual days, bake sales and car washes.

“Adopt a Child/Adopt a Life” & “Be a Star” Campaigns
In an effort to deepen Circle K’s connection to the communities it serves and increase support for UCP affiliates in the Florida region, Circle K and UCP have launched two new campaigns.

Since September 1, the “Adopt a Child/Adopt a Life” campaign helps to celebrate and promote the tremendous difference that Circle K has made in communities across Florida. Unlike the earlier coin collection campaigns, each Circle K store now features the story and photo of a UCP client that lives in the region that that particular store serves. Circle K customers donating at the register now know they are supporting those in their immediate community.

This type of targeted campaign that ties donors to outcomes is designed to trumpet the good work of Circle K as a community partner and good corporate citizen. At the same time, it will raise public awareness of UCP and the services it provides to people with disabilities, and raise crucial funds that will change their lives for the better. View all canister inserts online at: ucp.org/get-involved/whysupport/circle-k-adopt-a-child-adopt-a-life-campaign.

Be a Star Campaign
Beginning November 2 and running through the holiday season, Circle K patrons will have the opportunity to purchase a “star” that includes coupons for in-store use on select products. The star will be hung throughout the stores to raise awareness of Circle K’s support of UCP, visualize the incredible impact that individuals can have on the lives of people with disabilities in their communities, and encourage other customers to support as well.

This campaign reinforces Circle K’s philosophy of giving back to the communities of which they are a part, by inspiring individuals to support those in their community who need it most.

“We’re excited to herald Circle K’s deep philanthropy by showing people in the communities where a Circle K is doing business that their donations are impacting real lives in the towns and cities where donations are being collected,” said Michael Hill, UCP’s Senior Vice President for External Affairs. “In this way, we shine a spotlight on the radical difference that Circle K is making in the lives of people with a spectrum of disabilities.”

UCP Honors Circle K with Chair Award at 2011 Annual Conference
UCP presented Circle K with its Chair Award in recognition of a partnership that has spanned three decades and seen the convenience store chain donate tens of millions of dollars to the charity during the 2011 UCP Annual Conference. The Chair Award is UCP’s highest honor and is given by the Chair of UCP’s National Board of Trustees for exemplary commitment to UCP’s mission. This was a part of UCP’s annual Awards for Excellence, presented to UCP affiliates, individuals and companies whose exceptional activities, achievements and dedication exemplify the UCP mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities through its affiliate network.

UCP presented the 2011 Chair Award to Mr. Jason Broussard, Vice President of the Circle K Gulf Coast Region, and to Mr. Darrell Davis, Vice President of the Circle K Florida Region. Since 1984, Circle K has made a profound difference in the lives of people with disabilities. Through the company’s canister program, special events and cause marketing efforts, Circle K employees have literally transformed thousands of lives and donated more than $40 million to UCP’s efforts. 

Bruce Merlin Fried, Chair of UCP’s National Board of Trustees, said it was an easy decision to honor Circle K. “We know that Circle K’s philanthropic efforts make significant contributions in the communities where they have a presence, but for UCP, Circle K has been a central part of advancing the civil rights movement for people with disabilities. Few companies can claim that level of impact.  We applaud Circle K for not only transforming lives but making a long-term commitment to UCP.”

“Corporate partnerships can have a dramatic impact on the work of organizations like UCP,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of United Cerebral Palsy. “But the partnership with Circle K goes beyond a partnership; it has literally been a cornerstone experience for thousands of Circle K employees for decades and the efforts of those employees have forever changed the lives of thousands of people with disabilities around the nation.”

About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. UCP and its nearly 100 affiliates advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with a spectrum of disabilities by providing services and support to more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. We work to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, we continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org. 

About Alimentation Couche-Tard and Circle K
Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. is the leader in the Canadian convenience store industry. In North America, Couche-Tard is the largest independent convenience store operator (whether integrated with a petroleum company or not) in terms of number of company-operated stores.  It owes this foremost positioning to the 53,000 people working in its stores and executive offices and reaches annual revenues of over $15,8 billion.

Welcoming some 25 million visitors every week, its stores offer a broad mix of food products, beverages, other merchandise and services and motor fuel. Grouped under three main brands: Couche-Tard, Mac’s and Circle K, its neighborhood stores feature a friendly modern setting, and most of them are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The network has a total of over 5,800 stores, over 4,100 of which sell motor fuel. These stores are located across 10 Provinces of Canada in three geographic markets (East, Centre and West), and across 43 American states and the District of Columbia in eight major markets (Great Lakes, Midwest, Southeast, Florida, Gulf, Arizona, West Coast, Southwest). In addition, a network of about 3,700 licensees extends in seven other regions worldwide (China, Guam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Macau, Mexico). 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

UCP Contacts:
Lauren Cozzi, 202-973-7114,  
Alicia Kubert Smith, 202-973-7168, 

AAPD Contacts:
Lara Schwartz, 202-521-4309, Frankie Mastrangelo, 202-521-4308, 

Disability Groups Emphasize Need for Quality Care & Access to Care, in Lead Up to the Congressional Supercommittee Hearing about Debt Reduction Plans
on Tuesday

The Supercommittee decision cannot only be about saving money;
it must be about ensuring access to quality care

Washington, DC (November 1, 2011) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) and the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) oppose some measures in the previously-released deficit reduction proposals, which will be discussed at a hearing of the Supercommittee on Tuesday, November 1 at 1:30 p.m. ET. Former Senator Alan Simpson and Erskine Bowles of The National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, Dr. Alice Rivlin and Former Senator Pete Domenici of the Bipartisan Policy Center’s Debt Reduction Task Force are scheduled to testify.

“Changes to Medicaid in the Simpson-Bowles and Rivlin-Dominici proposals would put Americans with disabilities at risk. We urge Members of Congress and the Administration to stand firm against any measures that would jeopardize those with disabilities,” said Stephen Bennett, UCP President & CEO.

“Medicaid provides me with in-home personal care services so I can choose to live in my home instead of an institution. Members of Congress must keep the millions of Americans like me in mind as they determine the fate of Medicaid,” said Robert Coward, a quadriplegic and member of a shadow Supercommittee -- called “America’s Supercommittee” -- established by UCP and AAPD to put a human face on Medicaid.

“Reducing access to care for Americans is not an option, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t reduce costs,” said AAPD President and CEO Mark Perriello. “To reduce costs without limiting eligibility, we need to ensure that programs are operating efficiently. Some of the proposals being considered today place too much of the cost-cutting burden on people with disabilities,” he added. 

The Bowles-Simpson commission plan proposes repealing or reforming the CLASS Act, which establishes a voluntary program for workers to purchase long-term care insurance and supports. UCP and AAPD oppose repeal and urge members of Congress to reject any attempts to do so. 

One proposal would require persons eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare to enlist in managed care programs. Many managed care programs have had success. Not all programs are equal, however. An acceptable plan will employ the best practices used by effective managed care plans and ensure that individuals have access to providers and quality care.

UCP and AAPD favor changes to save money in the Medicaid program that don’t adversely impact recipients, such as reducing prescription drug costs and enabling more people with disabilities to stay in their homes instead of costlier nursing homes. While both of the previous debt reduction plans being highlighted at the hearing contain measures opposed by UCP and AAPD, the organizations endorse the proposal in the Bowles-Simpson commission plan to extend the Medicaid drug rebate to those individuals who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid.

About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.

About the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
The American Association of People with Disabilities is the nation's largest cross-disability organization. We promote equal opportunity, economic power, independent living, and political participation for people with disabilities. Our members, including people with disabilities and our family, friends, and supporters, represent a powerful force for change. Visit www.AAPD.com for more information.

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LONG-TERM CARE PROGRAM SHOULD BE IMPROVED, NOT SCRAPPED

Congress and Administration Should Make Adjustments to Make Program Financially Sound

Washington, DC (October 27, 2011) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) and The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) oppose efforts in Congress to repeal the CLASS Act (the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports Act).  At a hearing yesterday the Assistant Secretary for Aging Kathy Greenlee committed to providing Congress with information on the changes in the CLASS Act law that would enable the Administration to design a program that would be financially sound. UCP and AAPD call upon Congress and the Administration to get to work and make the CLASS Act's benefits available to the millions of people who need them.

“President Obama should veto any legislation that would repeal the CLASS Act. Instead, the President should urge Congress to make it work. Scrapping the program would be unacceptable. America has a long-term care crisis that we must solve. The CLASS program would make long-term care insurance accessible. Without it, millions of Americans will be unable to afford care they need,” said Mark Perriello, President of the American Association of People with Disabilities.

“We should strengthen, not weaken, our country’s safety net. People with disabilities are already struggling. Many states are cutting back Medicaid benefits and it will get much worse if Congress slashes Medicaid funding in the name of deficit reduction,” said Stephen Bennett, President and CEO of United Cerebral Palsy. 

About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.

About the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
“The American Association of People with Disabilities is the nation's largest cross-disability organization. We promote equal opportunity, economic power, independent living, and political participation for people with disabilities. Our members, including people with disabilities and our family, friends, and supporters, represent a powerful force for change.” Visit www.AAPD.com for more information.

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