Fall_Winter_2017_Newsletter

L i m i t s A biannual publication of UCP Central PA, dedicated to providing the community with news and opportunities to support our efforts to assist individuals with disabilities and their families... every day, in every way we can. What’s inside: * Change at the Top... and Beyond p. 1 * UCP Careers / Culture at Work p. 7 * Special Events Update p. 12 * Jeff Cooper Retires the Tie p. 4 * In Memoriam: Doris Brunner p. 8 * Foundation Update p. 13 * Around the Agency: UCP Respite p. 5 * Around the Agency: Changing Hands p. 10 * Spotlight Column p. 14 * Shout Outs p. 6 * Tribute to Bob Wallace p. 11 * President’s Perspective p. 16 (continued on page 2) 2017 in review Issue 16 without To say 2017 has been a year of significant change for UCP Central PA would be an exercise in understatement. Everything from the agency’s leadership and vision to our organizational structure and programming, to the address of our headquarters office location has undergone change. But along with so much change has come plenty of new opportunities: for program innovation and expansion, fundraising and revenue growth, and above all, the ability to have an even greater impact on the lives of those we serve. New Leader... New Vision With the April 30 retirement of 16-year President and CEO Jeff Cooper (see story and photos on page 4), UCP turned the page on a chapter of substantial program growth and innovation. Incoming President and CEO Judith McCowan officially assumed the reins of the organization on May 1, becoming just the second woman to serve in this capacity in UCP’s nearly 65-year history. The CEO Search Committee, led by then Chair Lindsay Jordan, selected a proven leader whose vision and strategic direction have already made great strides in moving the organization forward to an ever more robust future. For several months prior to her official start date, Judith traveled across the midstate from program site to program site to meet with UCP staff and supervisors so she could take the pulse of the agency herself. She wanted to learn firsthand the nuances of UCP’s complex program and service offerings, as well as the intricacies of the agency’s organizational structure and finances. Change at the Top... and Beyond! Above, left to right, UCP President and CEO Judith McCowan hosted a Cinco de Mayo celebration for staff; chatted with UCP volunteer and Sports Auction fan, Brooke Bowen, at Underdogs on May 22; and helped wrap packages at the UCP Gift Wrap booth at Capital City Mall in December 2016