Cover photo: Senator Mario Mattera presents a special proclamation to UCP of Long Island President & CEO Colleen Crispino in honor of the organization’s 75th anniversary, joined by participants from UCP-LI’s Adult Day program, Chris G. and Stanley B. (Credit – NYS Senate)
For seventy-five years, United Cerebral Palsy of Long Island (UCP-LI) has been making a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities. What started as a small group of determined parents in 1948 has become one of Long Island’s most vital organizations, providing essential services, education, and advocacy for thousands of people with disabilities.
In 2025, UCP-LI will celebrate this milestone with a year of special events, community engagement, and a renewed commitment to its mission: ensuring that every individual—regardless of ability—has the chance to live a full, independent life.
UCP-LI has never been about handouts—it’s about empowerment. Over the decades, the organization has evolved to meet the community’s needs, growing far beyond its original focus on cerebral palsy. Today, it serves individuals with a wide range of disabilities, offering education, employment, housing, and medical care support.
Some of the organization’s biggest milestones include:
1961: Opened the Suffolk Rehabilitation Center, offering physical and occupational therapy to children with disabilities, including those with muscular dystrophy, polio, and spina bifida.
1983: Became an affiliate of the national United Cerebral Palsy Association, launching Adult Day Treatment, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Supported Employment programs.
1990s: Expanded residential programs, including Eaton Knolls, a 13-unit accessible apartment complex in Central Islip for adults with disabilities capable of independent living.
What truly makes UCP-LI stand out is its community-driven approach. It’s not just about providing resources but giving people the tools and confidence to live independently and thrive.
“We don’t just help people get by—we help them build their futures,” said Colleen Crispino, President & CEO of UCP-LI. “For 75 years, we’ve been fighting to make sure every individual with a disability has the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
To mark seventy-five years of service, UCP-LI is hosting a lineup of special events throughout 2025, giving supporters a chance to celebrate, give back, and get involved.
Some of the biggest events on the calendar include:
Gold Coast Invitational (May 15, 2025): A golf tournament at Cold Spring Country Club, raising funds for UCP-LI’s life-changing programs.
Young Professionals Cornhole Tournament (July 2025): A fun networking event bringing together young professionals to support UCP-LI’s mission.
5K Walk N Wheel (September 2025): A community-wide event that welcomes participants of all abilities to walk, roll, or run to support UCP-LI’s programs.
Life Without Limits Gala (October 23, 2025): The flagship fundraising event, celebrating the impact of UCP-LI and raising critical funds for future initiatives.
Handbag Bingo (November 23, 2025): A lively, entertaining fundraiser supporting services for individuals with disabilities.
These events are not just about raising money but about raising awareness. They remind the community that disability advocacy isn’t just a cause—it’s a responsibility.
Any organization that lasts seventy-five years doesn’t do so without incredible people behind the scenes. From staff and volunteers to the individuals UCP-LI serves, this milestone is about honoring every person who has played a role in shaping the organization.
That’s why UCP-LI recently received special recognition from New York State Senators Monica Martinez (D-Brentwood) and Mario Mattera (R-St. James), who presented a proclamation to commemorate the organization’s impact.
Senator Mario Mattera spoke about UCP-LI’s longstanding commitment to the Long Island community:
“It was great to join Senator Monica Martinez to present UCP of Long Island President & CEO Colleen Crispino with a special proclamation to celebrate their 75th anniversary! The day was even more special when we were joined by participants from UCP-LI’s Adult Day program, Chris G. and Stanley B.
I congratulate UCP-LI on their incredible run of 75 years and thank all who have dedicated their time and effort over the past seven decades for all they do for individuals with disabilities.
Your commitment has helped countless lives, and we hope you all know how very appreciated you are.”
While seventy-five years is a considerable accomplishment, UCP-LI is not slowing down anytime soon. The organization is expanding programs, advocating for better policies, and adapting to new challenges to ensure that the next generation of individuals with disabilities has even greater opportunities.
“Our work is far from done,” Crispino said. “There are still barriers to break, lives to change, and communities to build. We are committed to growing our impact and making sure that everyone, regardless of ability, has the chance to live a full and independent life.”
As UCP-LI celebrates 75 years of impact, the organization is calling on Long Islanders to get involved. There are countless ways to support the mission, whether through donations, volunteering, or advocacy.
Visit UCP-LI’s official website for more information about its programs, upcoming events, and ways you can make a difference.
