Center for Persons with Disabilities celebrates anniversary
The Center for Persons with Disabilities at Utah State University is celebrating 35 years of serving people with disabilities and their families. CPD friends, partners, families and colleagues are invited to join the celebration Friday and Saturday, June 15 and 16, at multiple events (listed below.)
“The CPD is celebrating 35 years of making a difference through education, research and services,” said CPD Director Sarah Rule. “Our accomplishments reflect the hard work and dedication of staff, the commitment of families and individuals with disabilities to full participation in the community, and the support of our partners -colleagues at Utah State University, policymakers and state and community agencies.”
The CPD belongs to a national network of programs whose purpose is to build opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities.
The CPD has grown into one of the largest and most dynamic units in the network, directing projects on local, national and international levels, all with the focus of improving life for people of all ages with disabilities and their families.
“Over time, we have come to realize that what we do is about us,” said Rule. “Disability is a natural part of life, and most of us are going to experience disability personally or with a family member.”
According to the 2000 census, about 15 percent of Utahns between 21 and 64 have a disability, and 40 percent of those over age 65 have a disability.
“The achievements of the past 35 years have raised the expectations of individuals with disabilities and families,” said Rule. “And we will need all of our talents and energies to meet them.”
A schedule of events follows. There is a cost and advance registration required to participate in the recognition luncheon, the dinner/dance and the family picnic if catered food is purchased. The free events include the CPD open house, the family picnic if participants bring their own food, swimming and the reception.
Friday, June 15
noon-1:30 p.m. – Recognition Luncheon, Taggart Student Center, Sunburst Lounge
2-4 p.m. – CPD Open House
5:30-7:30 p.m. – Family Picnic, Willow West Rotary Pavilion
7:30-10 p.m. – Swimming, Logan Aquatic Center
Saturday, June 16
· 5:30-7:30 p.m. – Reception, Coppermill
· 7:30-11 p.m. – Dinner/Dance, Coppermill
For more information about the CPD celebration events or about other CPD services, visit www.cpd.usu.edu or call 435-797-1981. The CPD is located on the Utah State University campus.