Dear Friends and Stakeholders,

Founded originally in 1951 as UCP of Pittsburgh, our organization changed its name in 1996 to UCP/CLASS (Community Living and Support Services) to reflect its expanded mission and importance as a community resource, supporting a wide range of individuals with disabilities, not just those with cerebral palsy.

Recently, UCP/CLASS, like many social service agencies, is experiencing financial challenges as a result of reductions in governmental funding and regulatory change. In this time of financial stringency, we believe that all available resources be directed; first and foremost, to addressing the needs of those we serve.

While we value the relationship we have had with UCP National over the years, we have decided that the dollars allotted for national affiliation are better spent in direct service of the individuals we serve in western PA. Consequently, UCP/CLASS has become independent from the national organization in early July of 2013. The biggest change resulting from this decision will only be in our name. What is now UCP/CLASS will become CLASS, and our new web address will be www.classcommunity.org.

In this change there will be no interruption or reduction in the quality or quantity of support services we provide to individuals in the Western PA communities with disabilities including, most assuredly, those with cerebral palsy.

If you have any questions or inquiry on these changes please feel free to contact Al Condeluci 412.683.7100 ext. 2122, Melva Gooden-Ledbetter at 412.683.7100 ext. 2126, or any of the Program Directors associated with CLASS. We look forward to our continued efforts of Working Toward A Community Where Each Belongs.

Sincerely,
Al Condeluci, PhD
Chief Executive Officer
CLASS