Wiese: "I have been accepted by everyone

SOUTHEAST—Jennifer Wiese remembered the days spent at Hudson Valley Cerebral Palsy Association.

The soon-to-be 19-year-old 2008 graduate of Carmel High School, told more than 250 men, women and children gathered over the weekend for the association’s new headquarters official ribbon cutting: “ I loved this place back then and I continue to love it today. The staff members made me feel as though I didn’t have a disability. They helped me with my cerebral palsy. I was a normal kid here who could achieve the max and could conquer the world. Finding Hudson Valley UCP was the best thing that could have ever happened to me. Because of my training, I have been accepted by everyone.”

Tiki Barber, a future Football Hall of Fame candidate, who starred for many years with the New York Giants, delivered the keynote address.

Barber is now involved in the manufacture of recreational equipment used by the handicapped. Barber said football taught him “how to win and how to lose but also how to handle both in great ways. What I took away from football most was the power of influence as a professional athlete. People out there are much less fortunate than I am—having a keen ability to run around and play. Many kids with special needs don’t have that capability. The Hudson Valley Cerebral Palsy Association is a world champion just like the Giants for creating a needed and deserving facility for people with special needs.”

Prior to cutting the ceremonial ribbon, Howard Yager, executive director of the Hudson Valley Cerebral Palsy Association, thanked the public for its support over the years and the officials present for their desire that helped lead to the special day. Yager told the Putnam Courier that the mission of his organization would last well into the future. “We promise to continue providing individuals with cerebral palsy and similar service needs as well as their families with lifelong opportunities and choices promoting health, independence, inclusion and an enhanced quality of life.”