UCP of Central Florida to Celebrate 55 Years of Creating Lasting Memories with The Faces Behind the Miracles Fundraising Breakfast

Online, October 4, 2010 (Newswire.com) - UCP of Central Florida will celebrate 55 years of creating lasting memories in the community with its annual The Faces Behind the Miracles Fundraising Breakfast on Friday, November 5 from 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Orlando.

Before 1955 when UCP of Central Florida was founded, children in our community with disabilities had limited options for programs and services other than to be institutionalized. Today, 55 years later, help and hope is offered every day in the form of support, education, physical, speech and occupational therapy. Last year alone, UCP helped more than 2,400 children with all types of special needs including cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, developmental delays, speech and language delays and many others.

"Children who have a disability are often told they will never be able to walk, talk or interact on their own," said Ilene Wilkins, president and CEO of UCP of Central Florida. "Thanks to the support of parents, physicians and our community, UCP of Central Florida has given tens of thousands of children a new start in life by teaching them the skills they need to live independent, productive lives."

According to the Florida Department of Education, approximately 14% of the children in Central Florida have been diagnosed with a disability or developmental delay; yet, only half are receiving the services they need. Knowing this, one can easily understand why there is an immediate need in our community for UCP's services.

Whether the challenge is a slight speech disorder or a profound physical impairment, UCP's goal is to help children build independent lives without limitations while providing support and understanding to families.

The Faces Behind the Miracles Breakfast recognizes the importance of early intervention and exemplifies that together we can make a difference in the lives of children with special needs. Each event participant will be given the opportunity to get involved, whether it's making a donation, volunteering or sharing the mission and vision of UCP. To RSVP, go to ucpcfl.org/faces or contact Ruth Leggore at (407) 852-3308 or [email protected].

About UCP of Central Florida: Founded in 1955, UCP of Central Florida provides support, education and therapy services for children with and without special needs ages infant to 21. Services are offered at six locations throughout Central Florida: downtown Orlando, East Orlando near UCF, Kissimmee, Lake Mary, Pine Hills and Winter Garden. Visit http://www.ucpcfl.org for more information.