A Journey of Compassion
Out of the love and support of parents and volunteers who wanted more out of life for their loved ones living with disabilities, namely cerebral palsy.
What began in 1953 as a small organization has grown into the UCP Heartland you know today. Through a comprehensive range of programs and services, we are committed to empowering children and adults with diverse disabilities—including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, traumatic brain injuries, and other intellectual and developmental challenges—to thrive in every aspect of life.
Our History
1953
UCP Heartland is founded as the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Greater St. Louis by a group of concerned parents and volunteers committed to advocating for individuals with disabilities. Their mission is to ensure equal opportunities and experiences for their children.
1963
We acquired the Canterbury Center in University City, allowing for the development of Adult Day Services, Early Childhood Programs, Employment Resources, Residential Services, Emergency Residential Services, and Therapies (Occupational, Physical, and Speech).
1974
The Emergency Residential and Respite Care Center launches and later expands into the Oak Tree House in Webster Groves.
1983
We partner with Canterbury Enterprises to create a sheltered work environment, and as supported employment gains momentum, residential assistance programs expand, allowing individuals to live more independently.
1990
The Americans with Disabilities Act further advances accessibility and inclusion. UCP Heartland champions employment opportunities and advises businesses on equal opportunity hiring.
1992
We introduce the Sensory Stimulation Program, which is one of the first of its kind in North America.
2008
UCP Heartland merges with Easter Seals of Missouri and expands their services to Columbia and Jefferson City and SW Illinois.
2010
The merger dissolves yet UCP Heartland retains key programs, including the Autism Center in Southwestern Illinois, the Adult Day Program in Jefferson City, and the Early Childhood Center in Columbia.
2017
The Services Navigation program is established to help fill a Department of Mental Health void, helping people find the services they need.
2020
UCP Heartland headquarters move to North St. Louis County.
2021
The Columbia, MO Autism Clinic opens its doors.
2022
The St. Louis City Autism Clinic opens its doors, the first Autism clinic in City with no cap on Medicaid. The Independence Through Technology (ITT) program is launched to help connect individuals with the necessary assistive equipment and technology.
2024
We open our second St. Louis Day Services location, located in south St. Louis County.
A Legacy of Impact, A Future of Possibility
“In 1952, she remembers, “a group of mothers formed the Northside Mothers Club in the back of the Alhambra Grotto building near Grand and Magnolia. By 1953, we hired staff, operating with one classroom, one teacher, a cook, and a small therapy room. We relocated several times as we outgrew our spaces”.
Since then, we have grown to become a leader in advocacy, inclusion, and life-changing services for individuals with a spectrum of disabilities. With a strong foundation built on excellence, we are excited for what’s ahead. Vivian is too. “It’s amazing to see UCP Heartland grow,” she says. We know the future is bright at United Cerebral Palsy Heartland and we’re just getting started!