United Cerebral Palsy Org Offers Employment, Accessibility and Other Services for Clients of All Ages

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ILLINOIS - United Cerebral Palsy in Seguin aims to “create life without limits for persons with disabilities.”

Joseph Mengoni serves as the president and CEO of UCP Seguin. Mengoni explained that the organization has existed since 1949 and runs several programs for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“We believe that everybody deserves a chance,” Mengoni said. “They all have needs. We want to be there to help create life without limits for those folks. We’ve just continued to grow and expand. We look at creating opportunities for folks.”

UCP Seguin primarily works to create employment opportunities for community members with disabilities. They collaborate with employers and individuals to find jobs that will work for them.

The organization oversees a few businesses where clients can work. For example, Gardens and Gifts, a full-time garden and gift shop, employs 13 people year-round.

Additionally, UCP Seguin has partnered with the Illinois Lottery to manage kiosks in terminals at Chicago O’Hare International Airport. UCP clients operate the lottery ticket machines.

Mengoni tells the story of one client, who started work with a municipality 13 years ago and now owns a home in the same city. He is proud to see how many clients have gone on to excel in their jobs.

“I think the misconception is that they can’t do it. They won’t be able to do that,” he said. “Give them a chance. Let us show you what they can do. If it’s the right match, they're going to succeed in their job.”

In addition to employment resources, the organization offers foster care and residential options as well as adult day services. They also help people find accessible technology or equipment that will make their lives easier.

Mengoni vowed to continue working with UCP Seguin and individuals with disabilities to help them succeed. He noted that the organization has grown a lot since he joined almost 40 years ago, and he is proud of their continued growth. He hopes to see UCP Seguin continue to thrive so community members can be empowered to live their best lives.

“We will continue to meet the needs as federal policies change, state policies change,” he added. “We’ll continue to meet those needs and those challenges to overcome those hurdles.”

Anyone over age 18 who has an identified intellectual or developmental disability will qualify for their services, and they have additional programs for kids and their caregivers. For more information, visit the official UCPSeguin website at UCPSeguin.org.

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