Joshua Moses

Joshua Moses is seventeen years old and is currently on the road to achieve his Eagle Scout award. Joshua wanted to construct something of importance for his project, and heard through UCP-OC’s Speech Therapist, Patty Skinner, that we could use some help. He originally planned on building ten to twelve one foot long balance beams, but found out that they were not needed. After meeting with Kathleen McFarlin he decided to build the stair/ ramp piece as well as two six foot long balance beams. We are greatly appreciative of Joshua’s project, and the children at UCP-OC can be seen using his stair/ramp almost daily.

Dustin Montero

UCP-OC had the opportunity to work with Dustin Montero as a volunteer/intern the summer of 2011. Instead of writing a synopsis of what he did while he was here, we wanted to give him the chance to share in his own words what he experienced at UCP-OC. 

Thank you Dustin for everything you have done for our organization!
-UCP-OC Staff

“I had the opportunity to internship and volunteer at UCP-OC over the 2011 summer. I was involved with many daily operations, including Recreation Services, Childcare Inclusion and working within the Accounting and Finance side of UCP-OC. Being able to work alongside the children was definitely one of the most fulfilling experiences I’ve had in my life.

I learned of the many programs and services that UCP-OC offers families, and I was fortunate to get involved with many of them; two being Fit Kids and the new Mixed Martial Arts program. I spent a large portion of my time volunteering at the weekend and weeknight Art classes. I had the chance to get to know the familiar faces, and learn about each kid. All of the children were incredibly creative and a new story to share each week. I could always expect to have a great deal of conversation and fun.

On top of all my other experiences, the opportunity arose to visit a couple Inclusion Centers where I met a few children in particular that were interacting with the other typical students. They involved me in the games and activities they were having, resulting in a very memorable time. The children that I went to visit responded very well to me, and putting a smile on their faces was priceless.

I have never experienced anything like this before and my overall perspective on it was that being at UCP-OC was the best thing I could have been a part of this summer. I would like to think everyone that helped to make this opportunity a rewarding one.”
-Dustin Montero

Psi Delta Sigma

Psi Delta Sigma is a vibrant, active group of dynamic women motivated by a common philanthropic purpose. Founded in 1921 in Illinois, by 1948 Psi Delta Sigma National Sorority had more than 2,500 members and forty-four chapters in Illinois, Ohio, California and Wisconsin.

John Mathew Smith

John Mathew Smith, or "Johnny," is a boy that knows the true meaning of giving. Johnny was just 10 years-old when he first met UCP-OC Board Member, Bonner Paddock, at a Ducks hockey game. Bonner noticed that Johnny was wearing an old Mighty Ducks jersey from a former player, Paul Kariya, and asked him, "Is Kariya your favorite player?" He replied, "No, Chris Pronger is." During the first intermission Bonner gave Johnny a signed Chris Pronger puck and his face lit up like a Christmas tree! The next day, Johnny's aunt called Bonner to tell him that Johnny had proudly placed the puck above his bed on center display.