United Cerebral Palsy of Los Angeles (UCPLA)

[Assistive Devices]

The Mission 

The United Cerebral Palsy of Los Angeles (UCPLA) is dedicated to advancing the independence, productivity, and full citizenship of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. 

The organization was founded by dedicated family members and volunteers with a focus on providing high-quality, community-based services and programs. 

The Work 

For more than 75 years, the United Cerebral Palsy of Los Angeles (UCPLA) has been dedicated to unlocking the potential that comes from integrating all individuals into society. They help individuals with disabilities advance their independence.

The organization has 40 programs and service sites across five counties in Southern California, and a staff of more than 600 professionals who provide support and services to over 1,000 families and individuals every day. 

Open Challenge

High Quality Tools and Devices For Creative Expression: Cerebral Palsy is a group of disorders that affects movement, muscle tone, or posture. Generalized symptoms appear during infancy or in early childhood and include impaired movement, abnormal reflexes, involuntary movements, unsteady walking, trouble swallowing, or eye muscle imbalance, which makes it difficult for both eyes to focus on the same thing. 

This challenge seeks new designs for adaptive tools like tripods, workstations, trackballs, or joysticks that can be made affordable and open source. The purpose of these designs is to give individuals with cerebral palsy and/or other physical challenges greater independence in their lives.