United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of Central Ohio kicked off MRDD Awareness
Month in March by attending the MRDD Awareness Month kickoff event at
the Ohio Statehouse on Thursday, March 5, 2009 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00
p.m. Several of UCP’s participants went to the Statehouse to be a part
of this important event in Columbus that highlights the many efforts
throughout the state that afford opportunities for people with
disabilities to be successful in their communities.
During MRDD Awareness Month, UCP of Central Ohio focused on
highlighting our participants’ skills, abilities, and favorite things.
A “Just Like You” recognition ceremony took place on Tuesday, March 24,
2008 at 1:00 pm. To begin the special event, Adult Day Manager Dywan
Bright read a poem he wrote to honor people with disabilities titled
“Just Like You.” A portion of the poem reads “I’m looked at as being
different by so many people. But the way I view it, really it’s like
we’re all equal. I put my thoughts and personal feelings into all that
I do. Because I’m Just Like You.” 
At the “Just Like You” recognition ceremony each participant was
honored individually in a slide show and received a UCP backpack along
with a certificate. Guests at the ceremony included members of the
Board of Directors, as well as UCP’s participants and staff. The
ceremony was followed by a cake reception. During MRDD Awareness Month, UCP encourages people to consider the true meaning of this year’s theme, “Just Like You.” MRDD Awareness Month is meant to encourage people to bring diversity in to their community by welcoming people with disabilities. UCP of Central Ohio supports people with disabilities having full access in the community through employment, education, housing, and social opportunities.
Submitted by vgopal on Sun, 03/29/2009 - 6:30pm.
