Workplace Inclusion is Good Business

Since our founding in 1953, UCP Central PA has been laser-focused on identifying and breaking down barriers that prevent or limit inclusion. It is our mission to provide the services and supports that empower people of diverse abilities to experience meaningful lives… while our vision is one of communities that embrace every individual’s abilities. One way of doing both is by providing individuals of all abilities the satisfaction of earning a paycheck through gainful, competitive employment. To that end, in 2015, UCP began offering a new service line— Employment Services—dedicated to ensuring that individuals with the desire and ability to work are given the opportunity, access, and resources to do so.

UCP Employment Specialists work closely with individuals who are motivated and able to work to help them develop the skills and confidence to pursue and secure rewarding employment. We help participants hone in on the type of work they want to do, the workplace environment they would be most comfortable in, and their longer-term aspirations. We assist with career assessment, resume writing, and job interview prep. Once a job offer has been extended and accepted, we’re there to help with the paperwork and any clearances or accommodations that may be needed. The first day an individual is on the job, we’re right there with them… for as long as we are needed. We also provide ongoing job coaching and job mentoring until the individual is able to work independently.

The result of all this effort is 69 individuals who are currently actively employed by 34 employers across the midstate. No matter the nature of the work, these individuals are doing more than making a living. They are building meaningful lives.

That’s why UCP is honored to stand with the broader disability community in supporting both the principles and the people behind National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). This annual campaign highlights the contributions of workers with disabilities, recognizes the forward-thinking employers who hire them, and continues to challenge any stereotypes or barriers to employment that may remain.

Today we give a big SHOUT OUT to all the businesses and organizations across Pennsylvania who are leading the way and experiencing the benefits of a more diverse, inclusive workforce: 

Governor Josh Shapiro signed a Proclamation recognizing October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month in Pennsylvania. You can view it here:

To learn more about UCP Employment Services, contact Bridget Pugh, Senior Director of Operations at Bridget.Pugh@ucpcentralpa.org 717-737-3477.

Success Without Limits; Celebrating Value and Talent in the Workplace



As part of our efforts to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we are recognizing just a few of the individuals who receive Employment Services through UCP, and sharing their stories. Their journeys remind us that inclusion is a catalyst for success and innovation in the workplace and community!

Emily



Meet Emily, who works at Ecumenical Retirement Community setting and bussing tables, doing dishes, vacuuming, setting up bingo, and making sure their main dining room is clean, organized, and comfortable for the residents. She has been working there for 7 years and enjoys interacting with coworkers and the individuals who live there. In addition to working in the dining room, Emily has completed her emergency safety training and is CPR certified! She has learned to persevere through challenges and discrimination and has found a supportive environment where she manages her job responsibilities with minimal assistance from her job coach, Shannon. Outside of work, she enjoys being creative; drawing and coloring, singing at karaoke nights in the area, and sharing her artistic masterpieces with her friends and coworkers at Ecumenical, all while wearing her signature fashion statement – sparkles!

Tanner

Tanner has been working at Weis for almost a decade! His job responsibilities include taking out the trash and sorting through recycling, and stocking shelves in the ice cream aisle. Over the years, Tanner has received multiple “Star Awards” (the official employee recognition awards of Weis Markets) for his exceptional teamwork and service, from his coworkers. Not only is he a stellar employee, he is also a great customer, frequently buying a treat after his shift to talk with the ladies in the bakery. One of his favorite reasons for working at Weis? “Listening to classic rock and soul rock” music that pumps through the sound system in the store. Tanner is very happy with the job responsibilities he has now but hopes to increase his hours over the years so he can earn more spending money. One of his coworkers, Mary Jane, who has worked there for nearly 20 years, says that Tanner’s attitude and infectious personality create a positive work environment and has lifted team morale since he started.

Chris

Along with Tanner, Chris also works at Weis, and has been there for 5 years, stocking shelves in almost every aisle. Before his current job, he was working in the frozen foods section, and says he enjoys this job assignment much more! Chris also says that work is not only a chance to earn a paycheck, but an opportunity to connect with the people he works with and the shoppers from the local community. He looks forward to seeing coworkers and coming in to work hard each week. Chris’s independence over the years has skyrocketed, needing very little assistance from Stephanie on job coachings and trainings. His incredible perseverance despite the obstacles he’s faced over the years have landed him in the right job setting with a supportive team and balanced life. Outside of work, Chris enjoys being out in nature hunting and fly fishing on weekends with his dad. When asked what he wants people to know about individuals with disabilities in the workplace, he responded, “We are just like everyone else. We work hard, and there’s no reason to tease or make fun of somebody. We’re all the same.”

VOLUNTEERS STILL NEEDED!

For Harrisburg Hot Cider Hustle

Join us Sunday, November 1 on City Island to volunteer for UCP. Please indicate that you are volunteering through UCP Central PA when completing the form, and email Bernadette.Bratina@ucpcentralpa.org to confirm that you have registered, including any family or friends names as well.

For more information on the Hot Cider Hustle visit: https://hotciderhustle.com/harrisburg

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

39th Annual UCP/SchmidtKramer Golf Tournament

Thank you to everyone who sponsored, attended or volunteered at our 39th Annual UCP/SchmidtKramer Golf Tournament held on October 12th. We had 22 sponsors and 125 registered golfers – the largest number ever! Your participation will help bring create opportunities for people of all ages and all abilities.

A special thank you to Karreem Daniels for creating the artwork which was reproduced for the sponsor gifts this year. Thank you also to everyone at SchmidtKramer for your long-term and ongoing support for the golf tournament.  

CRAFT SHOW FOR A CAUSE!

UCP Makers Market

• Homemade • Local • Inspired • Made with Purpose •

Find a wide selection of unique gift ideas and home décor. All crafts will be handmade locally by UCP Family and Friends who retain proceeds from their sales. Baskets will also be raffled off, and there will be seasonal food offerings from local vendors.



• WHEN: Saturday, November 21, 2026 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

• WHERE: 55 Utley Drive Camp Hill, PA 17011

Do you believe UCP is a Great Nonprofit? If so, SPEAK UP!

Testimonials posted to the GreatNonprofits website lets others know what your experience has been in supporting UCP’s mission. Some of those people then consider supporting us.

·    If you or a loved one received services, share your experience.

·    If you volunteered, tell us why you donate your time and talents.

·    If you’ve been a UCP donor, tell why you chose to financially support this organization.

All reviews must be submitted by December 31 for them to accepted by GreatNonprofits.

Click on the link below, then click on the button that says, “Share Your Story.”