November 2017 - In This Issue:
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November is Assistive Technology (AT) Month,
But at UCP We're ALL ABOUT AT... ALL Year Round

As a leading provider of Assistive Technology (AT)* services throughout the midstate, UCP Central PA (UCP) applauds Governor Tom Wolf's official proclamation declaring November to be Assistive Technology Awareness Month in Pennsylvania. November 15 also marks America Recycles Day.
 
UCP enthusiastically supports both initiatives--not just this month, but all throughout the year.  We offer two innovative programs that connect people of differing abilities with the technologies, tools, and resources that not only make everyday living easier... they make otherwise impossible tasks possible.
 
UCP's Changing Hands  equipment exchange and reuse program provides durable medical equipment and AT devices to Pennsylvania residents of all ages... free of charge. Our approach to recycling goes far beyond the traditional bottles, cans, paper, and plastics.
Through Changing Hands, we routinely recycle equipment and devices that have the power to change lives... on both sides of the equation.

"Changing Hands brings technology from the simplest to the most sophisticated, to people who often need it most, but can least afford it,"  says AT Program Manager Jackie Wardle.  "It is a program that has the potential to have a real impact on the life of someone with a disability.  

It is often equally satisfying for the people donating the equipment as for the ones receiving it,"  Jackie explains.   "Sometimes a family member brings in items at a very sad time of their lives-a loved one has passed away or is ill. Giving another person in need a device that will make their life better or easier can be a great comfort at such a time."

UCP's Independent Living Technology (ILT) program is an innovative model of support that uses remote monitoring technology to increase the independence and safety of older adults and people with disabilities. The use of this technology has the potential benefit of cost savings from reduced staffing. It also provides individuals the opportunity to live in a less restrictive residential option, such as an apartment, rather than a group home.

TECHNOLOGY WITHOUT LIMITS
AT devices, equipment, and services

At UCP, we offer several innovative program and service options that help people of all ages and abilities experience firsthand the many ways technology can change their lives :
  • Assistive Technology - equipment, devices, and services to make everyday life easier, at home, school, work, play, and in the community
  • Changing Hands - assistive technology exchange and reuse program; available to all PA residents free of charge
  • Independent Living Technology - technology and services that enhance safety, promote independence, and maintain dignity
  • AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians - a partnership with Penn State Extension to promote success in agriculture for farmers with a disability or long-term health condition
Click   here to the see the power of AT in action!
LET THE WRAPPING BEGIN!
The UCP Holiday Gift Wrap Booth opens December 1
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Whether it's your holiday tradition to donate your time as a wrapper or bring your gifts to be wrapped or both... a visit to UCP's Holiday gift wrap booth is sure to get you in the giving spirit.

Thanks to the generosity of PREIT Management, we'll be returning to our spot near center court of Capital City Mall (between Macy's and Yankee Candle). The best part is... every package we wrap represents a measure of hope for people with disabilities in our community. 

Many weekend and some weekday slots are still available. Individuals and groups welcome!  Click here  to learn more and sign up to wrap or contact Anna at Anna.Spiess@ucpcentralpa.org or 717.737.3477.
YOU DID IT!
UCP Earns Great Nonprofits Honors

Thanks to the willingness of UCP supporters who responded to our "call to action", we have kept our Top-Rated status on the nonprofit review site, Great Nonprofits. Thanks to all those who took the time to share their experiences with us (We--and you--know who you are!)

You can read the reviews or add your own at any time:

Upcoming Events



Family Activity: Holiday Social
Friday, December 8
6:00PM to 8:00PM
Giant Food Store, 2nd Floor
3301 Trindle Road, Camp Hill
Magic Night: Save the Date
Saturday, March 10
6:00PM
Hershey Country Club, Hershey


It is the mission of UCP Central PA to assist infants, children, youth, and adults with disabilities and their families achieve their goals of development, growth, independence, and full citizenship.