United Cerebral Palsy of West Alabama began in 1962 as UCP of Tuscaloosa, a sub-affiliate of UCP of Birmingham. In 1972, UCP of Tuscaloosa branched off from the Birmingham affiliate and focused its mission to serve individuals with all types of disabilities specifically in West Alabama. In the mid-80s, UCP of Tuscaloosa changed its name to UCP of West Alabama (UCPWA) and moved to a building on Bryant Drive. It was at that location that UCPWA began to provide early intervention, “sitter services” and respite services.
In the mid-90s, UCPWA received the Northport City grant from the Think Foundation. This grant allowed us to purchase the building that we currently use for our programs, services, and office space. UCPWA also began its Adult Day Habilitation, Camp Sunshine, and LEAP programs.
In 2000, UCPWA began to provide hourly support services for individuals desiring supports in their private homes and in the community. Hourly support services range from personal care support to residential – UCPWA also began to collaborate with Northridge High school’s Start on Success Alabama school transition to work program during this time.
In 2021, UCPWA added the following programs: employment small group, Community experience, Job employment training (JET), and the Milestone supported employment program.
UCPWA is truly striving to help individuals with disabilities live a life without limits by creating and incorporating more services for children and adults in our community. We want to be a beacon for those with disabilities within the West Alabama community
