Aspire of WNY history

An article from the September 13, 1949, edition of The Buffalo Evening News vividly described what would be called the Young Adult Cerebral Palsy Center:

By 1951, the agency grew to include not only the recreation program, but also administrative offices, a preschool and a research library.

The preschool services expanded in 1952, when children ages three to seven could be enrolled.

In 1954, the agency purchased the Victorian mansion.

The possible expansion was called a “giant step” by the Courier-Express on February 18, 1958:

In 1961, a joint venture of Niagara Vocational Rehabilitation Center and CPA of WNY results in the purchase of a warehouse building at 100 Leroy.

In 1965, CPA of WNY changes the admission policy to include children with disabilities other than cerebral palsy.

In 1969, the Agency becomes affiliated with the State Cerebral Palsy Organization.

The decade of the 1970’s was integral to the agency’s development of Home and Residential Services.

In 1971, the agency became officially known as United Cerebral Palsy Association of WNY, Inc. (UCPA) and obtained state licensing to develop a free-standing clinic.

The first residential facility was opened in 1973 at the Elmer Lux Hostel on Halbert Street in Buffalo.

The 1980’s included more growth for UCPA as a Respite Care Center was founded in Tonawanda, while 7 Community Drive became home for Adult and Day Services, the Adult Clinic, Recreation, and Home Services.

In 1984, the first Children’s Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) was founded at the Audubon Campus to provide intensive medical and behavioral supports.

In 1992, long-time board member Walter Brock was honored with the opening of the Walter Brock Center on Genesee Street to house Rossler Day Treatment services.

In light of this, the agency disaffiliates with United Cerebral Palsy and on March 14, 2003, the agency became known as Aspire of Western New York.