Student Stories
Charissa Thomas : An Unstoppable Spirit at UCPCC
UCPCC’s Unstoppable Spirit this month is Charissa Thomas. Her journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and unwavering optimism. Despite facing significant challenges from a young age, Charissa’s Unstoppable Spirit has propelled her to remarkable achievements and inspired all who know her. Early Challenges From the tender age of 7 months, Charissa’s parents noticed developmental…
April 23, 2024
Felicia Ayala: An Unstoppable Spirit at UCPCC
Felicia Ayala: Embodying the Unstoppable Spirit Felicia Ayala’s story is one of resilience and determination, a testament to the strength that lies within. Despite facing challenges from an early age, Felicia’s spirit remains unwavering, showcasing an indomitable will to thrive against all odds. Defying Expectations: Felicia Ayala’s Path to Empowerment Felicia’s journey commenced in the…
April 23, 2024
Jonny Garcia: An Unstoppable Spirit at UCPCC
In a world filled with challenges, there are individuals who inspire us with their resilience and determination. Jonny Garcia, a member of the United Cerebral Palsy Central California community, is one such individual. Johnny’s unstoppable spirit, which has been nurtured and fueled by the love of his family and UCPCC, has enabled him to overcome…
November 7, 2023
Dillon Lizaola’s Inspirational Journey
This month our Unstoppable Spirit is Dillon Lizaola. His life story is a testament to the transformative power of determination and dedication. From his early years in the UCP Parent and Me program to his current role as an Adaptive Physical Education Teacher, Dillon’s journey is marked by inspiring milestones. Let’s delve into his remarkable…
October 9, 2023
Celebrating Unstoppable Spirits: The Joswig Family
Embracing the American Dream: Corinna’s Unstoppable Spirit In the heart of the coffee-loving community, there’s a story that resonates with the essence of the American Dream. It’s a tale of resilience, hope, and the unbreakable bonds of family. The Joswig family, hailing from Germany, embarked on a transformative journey in pursuit of a brighter future…
August 29, 2023
Celebrating Unstoppable Spirits: The Bailey Sisters
Today, we are excited to share a heartwarming story that blends the love for coffee and the spirit of unwavering support. UCPCC and Rare Earth Coffee have joined hands to showcase the featured Family of the month in our Unstoppable Spirits Coffee Collection. This month, we shine the spotlight on the remarkable Bailey Girls –…
July 27, 2023
Testimonials
“My sister has been a UCP student for 15 years. In the beginning she was very insecure and uncomfortable with her surroundings. Over the years Patty has utilized a lot of the programs offered, several of which have help her become a great deal more independent … free thinking and has really brought out her creative tendencies in art and singing.
She has consistently grown each year … and has emerged a very happy student and wife to her husband Michael.”
-Rick Leon
Brother to Patty Fields
“In the beginning… with our daughter Victoria, we had no idea what to do or how to find help for her. UCP was recommended to us … but we didn’t know how to move forward… but they did! They provided us with many, many one-on-one sessions …particularly from the time she was 1 to 3 years old; really important stuff … they help her learn how to sit .. walk … feed herself and continue to provide help. Victoria is 7 now and is a very, very friendly, loving and outgoing child!”
-Sergio & Dora Ramirez
Parents of Victoria Ramirez
“UCP has been a part of our family since 1986 when I joined UCP teaching art to UCP students. They’re used to have a ‘mentoring program’ which provided an opportunity to bring a student into a home and become part of a family. Joe, my husband of 40 years and amazingly supportive of the idea embraced the idea and we ended up not taking in one student but … 2 fun, amazing a creative students – Jack Spinetta and Judy Tolley. Over the years Jack learned to paint with his hands rather than his mouth and Judy amazes Joe and I every day with her love of color and bubbly personality. They are totally part of our family!”
-Joe & Diana Salinas
Extended Student Family:
Judy Tolley & Jack Spinetta
“No one expects their child to be ‘special’… UCP helped us understand who our daughter Penny is and…more importantly, what she could be. They helped us set goals… with reasonable expectations for our family…and for her.
UCP set small goals … and together she grew one step at a time. They provided us with the help from people we needed, therapists and teachers, incredibly patient and emotionally supportive people.”
-Evan & Amanda Saltray
Parents of Penny Saltray