UCP+ Central California opens new facility designed to expand services for people with disabilities

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A local nonprofit that serves children and adults with disabilities is celebrating a major milestone after officially opening the doors to its new, expanded facility in northeast Fresno.

With the ceremonial snip of oversized scissors and cheers from students, staff and supporters, UCP+ Central California welcomed the community into its new 40,000-square-foot campus during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Monday.

"Students, it's time for you to enter your new facility," CEO Roger Slingerman said.

The new campus will serve individuals with a broad range of disabilities. While the organization's name reflects its origins with United Cerebral Palsy, Slingerman said the nonprofit's mission has expanded significantly over the years.

"This is the country club for people with disabilities in a lot of ways," Slingerman said. "We redid everything so that we could move in and not have to go back and actually do construction. It took a little longer than we wanted, but we're in it."

The facility was intentionally designed with accessibility at the forefront. Wider hallways and doorways help accommodate students and participants who use wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

"I want them to feel like themselves, to come here and be very comfortable in their own body and own shoes," Slingerman said.

The building includes multiple classrooms, a teaching kitchen and a pottery room, all intended to support educational, vocational and recreational programming.

Slingerman said the additional space will allow the organization to significantly increase capacity and expand its reach within the community.

"It's not only going to be used for the adult day program during the day, Monday through Friday, from basically 8 till 3," he said. "Our goal is to use the evenings and weekends for the greater community."

The grand opening drew local leaders and community supporters, including Fresno City Councilmember Nick Richardson, who presented a plaque recognizing the organization's achievement.

"From my office, we just like to recognize UCP Plus from the City of Fresno, myself and Jerry Dyer," Richardson said. "Congratulations on your grand opening here."

Slingerman said he believes the new building will create opportunities for growth and increased community engagement for years to come.

"I'm very fortunate to be here. I'm here for a reason," he said. "I look forward to seeing how this building grows every day."

Community members interested in learning more about UCP+ Central California, its programs and services, by clicking here.

You can also take a virtual tour of the new facility by clicking here.

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