What Motivates and Guides Us
Living Out Our MISSION
UCP Central PA empowers people of diverse abilities to live a meaningful life through innovative support and services.
Pursuing Our VISION
Communities that embrace every individual’s abilities.
Guided by Our PRINCIPLES
- We are person focused, when we ensure that each person’s interests and needs are the driving force behind our actions.
- We communicate effectively, when we are clear and concise and ensure understanding with all stakeholders.
- We are connected, when we are passionate about–and proud of–the work we do, individually and collectively.
- We innovate, when we work together to find creative and innovative ways to develop and deliver programs and services.
- We inspire leadership, when we demonstrate a commitment to help others learn new skills in a highly collaborative manner.
- We exhibit teamwork, when we foster collaboration through trust, accountability, and respect.
Meet our Team
Jamie Fleck
DirectorFavorite movie: My favorite movie is Grease (the original) which I was able to see on Broadway years ago.
Favorite activity: My favorite activity to participate in has always been roller skating. There is no other feeling like 8 wheels on my feet. It provides me with peace of mind.
Brief background: My career began at UCP in 2009, initially supporting people with the Office of Long Term Living. I transitioned to Home and Community and have been supporting people within that realm ever since. I have been honored to learn so much from so many people since being part of the UCP family.
When I am not working… I spend a lot of time enjoying the outdoors. The mountains are peaceful, and the fresh air is calming. Our fur baby, Bo, has become a mountain dog.
I am excited to be able to continue with such an amazing organization. I always say, I have learned more from those I’ve supported and worked beside than I will ever be able to teach.
Katie Borne
Manager, LititzFavorite movie: 12 Angry Men. The original from the 50’s.
Brief Background: I was born in Harrisburg, PA and have lived in and around Central PA all my life, currently residing in York County. I attended both Harrisburg Area Community College and Elizabethtown College where I finished my Bachelor’s degree in Human Services: Behavioral and Addictions Counseling. I have long had a passion for the caregiving industry and started my career in a residential mental health setting over 10 years ago. About 7 years ago, I transitioned to working in the IDD field and have been doing so ever since. I hold the belief that we as a society are responsible for ensuring our most vulnerable members are heard and valued.
When I am not working… I am often travelling or visiting various family and friends. It is rare for me to be home at all. Some of my favorite places I have been include the Smoky Mountains and Bermuda. I once took a cross-country road trip by myself to the Grand Canyon. I also enjoy reading and exploring local places.
You would be surprised to know… I have read Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte over 30 times.
Jamie Lawrence
Manager, Camp HillFavorite movie: It’s a Wonderful Life
Brief background: I was born and raised in Western Michigan and transplanted to PA in 1991. Most of my adult life was spent working in the Property Management and Hospitality industry. One of my favorite things about working in those industries was the opportunity to help families create lasting memories. Each day brought its own challenges but at the end of day, helping provide families with facilities and activities that they could enjoy together made it all worthwhile. After about 20+ years of that, it was time for a change. At that time, I made my way to UCP. Two children had found their way into our home, and I could no longer, nor did I want to, work every weekend and holiday. I joined the team at UCP in 2016 as an Agency with Choice Specialist. This proved to be a truly humbling experience. I was so grateful that I again had the opportunity to work with great families. This time my job was to help them with the services they were receiving from AWC, and I was fortunate to see the great accomplishments many participants made. After a few years, I moved to my current position and still truly enjoy speaking with families, helping them understand what they have available to them and hearing the great triumphs.
When I am not working… I enjoy traveling with my family, attending my kids sporting events, volunteering, and home projects.
Kristine Zeigler
Manager, SelinsgroveFavorite quote: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Brief background: I was born and raised in Selinsgrove, PA. Most of my career was in the childcare field. I decided it was time for a change after my children were in high school. I joined UCP in 2012. I am currently in my 13th year with UCP as a Manager. I truly enjoy coming to work and watching the individuals whom we support live a meaningful life. I am grateful to be part of an amazing organization. My husband and I reside in the town of Selinsgrove. We have a blended family that includes our pride and joys of 4 children, their spouses, significant others, 2 grandchildren and twins on the way!
When I am not working… I enjoy relaxing outside on our patio, remodeling projects in our home, spending time with our children, family, and of course spoiling our grandchildren.
Kayla Abreu
Senior Specialist, Camp HillFavorite movie: Hocus Pocus
Brief background: I was born in Harrisburg, but raised in York, PA by my mother and stepfather. I have an older brother and 3 younger brothers. I got my first job at Burger King during my sophomore year of high school where I worked until I graduated from HACC with a degree in Human Services. Shortly after graduating college, I worked at a CPS program with Goodwill for 6 years before accepting a position within UCP. My husband, Anthony, and I met while working at Burger King in high school. We have been together for 14 years, married for 9. We live in York, PA with our 2 amazing children, Jaxon and Emberly, and our dog, Kona.
When I am not working… I enjoy spending time with our families and close friends, watching my children play & develop close relationships with their cousins, and trying to sneak in date nights with my husband as much as possible. I also enjoy reading and taking our annual family vacation to Florida.
Caitlyn Ackley
Specialist, LititzFavorite Movie: The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
Favorite Book: Wish You Were Here
Brief Background: I was born and raised in Ephrata, PA and I still live there today. I am married and have 2 young boys, Dawson and Bryson. We have a St. Bernard dog named Trixie and a cat named Puma. I went to college at Bloomsburg University and earned a degree in Criminal Justice. I worked in a few different jobs before this one, but I was most recently employed as a Program Specialist at Ephrata Area Rehab Services. My favorite part about working in this industry is how much opportunity we have to make a difference to the individuals we serve. The quote that I refer to a lot is “people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Because of this, I look for opportunities to brighten someone’s day or to focus on the positive things that are in my life.
When I am not working… I enjoy spending time with my family and specifically taking trips to various places. Last summer, we traveled to the Ark Encounter attraction in Kentucky and then to the state of Tennessee where we visited Nashville and Gatlinburg. We love the outdoors and going camping.
Lauren Bahrenburg
Specialist, Camp HillFavorite movie: Howl’s Moving Castle
Brief background: I started working at a bank in 2014 and worked there for five years before I moved to a call center for Tricare Dental. I realized that being in the contact center was not it for me and about a year into the Pandemic I submitted my application to AWC. I had a friend who worked as an instructor, and they told me that they were hiring and sent me the information to get started and I was so excited. I interviewed and got hired and now here I am!
When I am not working…I like to play video games, read, and have recently gotten into roller skating again
You would be surprised to know… I have my license in cosmetology!
Sheena Espinal
Specialist, SelinsgroveBrief background: I was born and raised in the small town of Sunbury, PA. I have one sibling, Nathan, who is 4 yrs. younger than me, and we are VERY, VERY close. Both mine and my husband’s side are very family oriented. We now have a 14-year-old son, Ricardo “Ricky”, with my high school sweetheart (together since 2006), also named Ricardo (different middle names), bought our first home together in 2020 and have two dogs – a 2 yr. old Pitbull named “Hussle” and our 4-year-old Weimaraner named “Max”. I started working with UCP in 2010 while I was about 3 months pregnant at the day program in Sunbury. I started off as a DSP and shortly after was promoted to the instructor of the program. Working with UCP over the years has taught me many great lessons and allowed me to think outside of the box to help those in need. This year makes 16 years with the UCP, and I am not going anywhere- until RETIREMENT that is!
When I am not working… We spend most of our days attending/traveling for our son’s favorite sports- basketball!! He participates in school basketball as well as year-round AAU competitive basketball. We live a very fast lifestyle, but I wouldn’t change it for the world! When we aren’t at basketball for our son, you will find us cheering on one of our nephews at their sporting event, or one of our niece’s dancing competitions. Family is of utmost importance to our entire family, and you can NEVER have too many memories with them.
You would be surprised to know… My son is SOOOO photogenic as you can see in our picture. I love to travel, being at the beach and just being on vacation with family and great friends!!
Kimberlee Fortin
Specialist, SelinsgroveFavorite quote: “Love many things, for therein lies the true strength, and whosoever loves much performs much, and can accomplish much, and what is done in love is done well.” -Vincent Van Gogh
Brief background: I was born and raised in a very small town in Union County, Pennsylvania. Most of my work life has been in the human services field. I have gained my experience from college, working for private healthcare companies, and for the state in some of their facilities. I genuinely love helping people and am very grateful for the opportunity to continue doing so with UCP-AWC!
When I am not working… I enjoy spending time with my son, kayaking, painting, drawing, and traveling.
You would be surprised to know… I like to collect different kinds of coffee mugs.
Alberto Garcia
Specialist, LititzFavorite Movie: Tough to pick just one so I have to pick two, 2001: A Space Odyssey and The Princess Bride
Brief Background: I was born in California and lived there until I was 8 years old. My parents then decided to move back to their native home of Mexico, and I lived there for 8 years. After living in Mexico, my family moved back to the US and settled in the small town of Bloomsburg or as their slogan says, “the only town in PA.” Since then, I graduated from Bloomsburg Area High School and from Bloomsburg University. While in high school and college, I worked at a family-owned Mexican Restaurant. After graduating, I worked at CMSU Behavioral Health and Developmental Services for 8 years, as an Adult Resource Coordinator and then as the Case Worker for the First Episode Psychosis program. Recently, I have settled in Lancaster County. For the first two and a half years in Lancaster, I worked at the Lancaster County Office of Aging as an OPTIONS Care Manager. I am now happy to be a member of the Agency With Choice-Lititz Office as a Support Services Coordinator.
When I am not working… You will usually find me spending time with my girlfriend and our cat, Peanut, whether we’re catching up on our favorite TV shows, watching a movie, or playing video games. I also enjoy traveling to Bloomsburg to visit my parents, sister, brother-in-law, and two nieces, or getting together with friends.
You would be surprised to know… I’m proudly a bit of a nerd/geek. I’m really into Marvel and DC, anime (especially anything from Studio Ghibli), video games, and just about anything with sci-fi elements, particularly stories centered around time travel or space exploration.
Joan Vega Gonzalez
Specialist, Camp HillFavorite book: Any book on Bible prophecy.
Brief background: I was born and grow up in Puerto Rico. When I got married, my ex-husband was sent to do a tour of 3 years in Germany. We got to travel to France and Austria while stationed there back in 1987. I have two children Cristian is the oldest (32), he was born in Germany and Omar (26) born in Puerto Rico. I am also a grandma of a 4-year-old little girl, my biggest blessing, her name is “Ariah” she calls me “MiMi “. I was a caregiver for UCP Capital Home Care for about 10 years. I have a collection of different types of mugs with some quotes on them. I have about 30 of them and counting. I also have developed a love for piggies (I don’t have real life ones maybe someday I will). My cubicle is evidence of that and areas of my home as well. Stop by my cubicle sometime and see it! Lol. I also went on a Mission trip to Cuba 2019.
When I am not working… I enjoy watching movies as well as just relaxing at home. I enjoy spending time with Ariah . I also enjoy spending time with my Church family and going out to eat. Each day is a Blessing. I enjoy cooking only when I get inspired! 😊
You would be surprised to know… I am very friendly and love to laugh! Ohhhhh and please don’t open a can of soda close to me because the sound of it will make me want to get a soda! My coworkers are a witness to that!
Jessica Gourdier
Specialist, Camp HillBio coming soon!
Tiffany Hartman
Specialist, SelinsgroveFavorite Quote: “ Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.”
Brief Background: I was born and raised in Selinsgrove, PA but currently live in Middleburg PA with my husband Adam of 14 years. We have two children. We have a 13-year-old son named Raylan and a 10-year-old daughter named Rylee. We also have a blue heeler puppy named Luna, and we have three cats that we rescued named Cuddles, Coco, and Houdini. I have worked in the healthcare field for 13 years. Most of my experience was from working for the Commonwealth of PA at the Selinsgrove Center. After working their 7 years I went to work as a Program Supervisor in a residential group home setting for 3 years. After hearing many wonderful things about UCP I applied for the Specialist position with Agency with choice. Supporting and helping others has always been very important to me. I absolutely love what I do and can’t wait to see what the future holds.
When I am not working… I enjoy spending time with my family, going to my kid’s sporting events, watching football, going to the races at the Selinsgrove Speedway, going to yard sales, playing bingo, and planning/going on vacation.
You would be surprised to know… I love the farmhouse/ antique truck décor.
Melissa Jacobs
Specialist, Camp HillBrief background: I celebrated my 20th Anniversary with UCP in January. I started out as a Personal Care Attendant with Capital Home Care. During my time with Capital Home Care, I worked as their Floater and then became an Assistant Program Manager. I had the pleasure of taking two of our consumers to the Capital for the PHA Lobby Day to speak about the importance of Home Care to them and their families. I transitioned to Agency with Choice in 2016 when the Camp Hill office of Capital Home Care closed.
When I am not working… you can find me working one of my part-time jobs, caring for parents, watching softball, or spending time with my family. Kids grow up fast, so enjoy every day you get with them.
Abigail James
Specialist, SelinsgroveFavorite movie: Alice in Wonderland
Brief background:
I was born in Harrisburg and grew up in Carlisle. I have one younger sister. My family has been huge Disney fans since the beginning, so every year we try to take a trip to Disney World. I graduated from a branch campus of Pittsburgh where I studied Exercise Science. I got married and we moved to Millville. We had been together for about 9 years before getting married in September. We have one daughter named Nora. I worked in the Home and Community program for UCP but got the opportunity to work for AWC after getting married.
When I am not working… I enjoy going to hockey games, baseball games, being outside (hiking, biking, walking trails), and spending time with my family. My husband and I would love to travel cross country to visit as many national parks as we could.
Vanessa Miller
Specialist, Camp HillFavorite movie: The Proposal. Really anything with Ryan Reynolds in it is amazing. I love most movies except Horror!
Brief background: I was born in Dillsburg, PA and after moving around PA for several years I came back to Dillsburg in the 4th grade. I have lived in Dillsburg ever since. I have one younger sister. I graduated with Honors from Northern High School and Cumberland Perry AVTS in 2006. I married my high school sweetheart in 2007 and we have three children: Gracie, Jackson, and Emma. Before coming to UCP I worked at Carlisle Digestive Disease Associates in their surgical center, and I was recently with Northern York County School District.
When I am not working… I am usually with my family hiking, camping, baking, or just hanging out.
You would be surprised to know… I taught at the same school for 9 years that I was taught at.
Lisa Saville
Specialist, SelinsgroveFavorite Movie: A League of Their Own
Brief background: I have 5 children and 2 grandchildren. My husband passed away from lung cancer in 2021. I have since met and fell in love with my chapter 2. I have been with UCP for 15 years, first as a DSP with Capital Home Care and now with AWC since August of 2021. I really enjoy working for UCP and meeting all the families I work with.
When I am not working… I enjoy working on my family genealogy, going to car shows, going to the beach, antiquing, and spending time with Tom and my family.
You would be surprised to know… I used to rescue ducks, geese, and chickens. I had 2 acres fenced in for them. The participants with Capital Home Care knew me as the duck lady.
Morgan Scholl
Specialist, SelinsgroveFavorite quote: “Scars remind us where we’ve been, they don’t have to dictate where we’re going.” – Rossi, Criminal Minds
Brief background: I’ve had many different jobs since I was 14 and not one of them coincided with another. I’ve worked as a babysitter, fast food restaurant worker, grocery store cashier, cabinet manufacturing factory off loader, a Youth Support Staff at a Juvenile Detention Center, and a bartender/bar manager, just to name a few. I guess the only thing that all the above have in common is working with the public and those who know me would agree that I am rather social. I enjoy learning about people, being around people, and thinking on my feet. I started working for UCP in 2014 at the Sunbury CPS location as a Transportation Aide, then a Direct Support Professional. At that time, it was just a job for the time being, and once I found something else, I would then move onto the next, whatever that was going to be. Little did I know that I would be walking into a field of work, that I would later realize, is exactly what I wanted to do. Fast forward to 2019, I loved what I did and saw myself doing this for years to come. This would be a career that I wouldn’t get tired of but wanted to challenge myself to learn something different, so I applied then later accepted a position as a Specialist at AWC at the Selinsgrove Office. Now, I’ve been with UCP for almost 12 whole years, and I absolutely love what I do, and who I support on a day-to-day basis!!
When I am not working… you can find me…. working! I manage and bartend on the weekends. In my not so free time, I enjoy live music, attending concerts, photography (often concerts and photography go hand in hand) and staying busy. Aside from being a workaholic, I am a full-time mother to my 13-year-old son, Jaxton, who has Autism. He is an absolute hoot, quick witted, hilarious (apple doesn’t fall far from the tree), and very literal with no filter. He may also teach you a thing or two as he loves to learn and has an impressive memory. We enjoy spending time at the beach, swimming/spending time in water, exploring different places, and camping in our pop-up camper! We also share our home with 3 cats (Cambria, Elsa and Boo) and 2 French Bulldogs named Pepper and Packer. If it were up to Jaxton, we would have a zoo but unfortunately zookeeper is not on my resume (yet).
You would be surprised to know… Some say, I am a jack of all trades, but I will admit I am a master of none but that’s not very exciting to know but if you need ideas on how to fix something, need a plus one to enter a trivia contest or wonder how many dots are on the opposite side of a die, I am your go to person. However, one thing not many people know is that my 2 siblings and I are adopted. My sister and I are biological sisters but were adopted by the same family. What’s even more surprising is that my mom gave me the option to pick my own name! So, when people tell me that they like my name or how it fits me. I get to respond with, “Thanks, picked it myself!”
Whitney Tsakonas
Specialist, LititzFavorite Movie: The Family Stone
Brief Background: I was born in Lancaster, PA and currently live less than a mile from my childhood home. I went to Shippensburg University, graduating with a degree in Psychology then went on to Georgian Court University where I obtained a dual teaching certification in elementary and special education. I taught First grade for 5 years before taking a 10 year break to raise my three amazing children ages 11,9, and 6. I eased back into the workforce as a Special Instructor with Early Intervention and now I am excited to use my education and passion for helping people as a Specialist at UCP.
When I am not working… I love spending time with my 3 kids watching them excel at their activities, dance and soccer! We love to ski, go to amusement parks, spend time at the beach, and travel to new places. When I am not with my kids I like to go for long walks, cook, try new restaurants, and go to shows at The Fulton.
You would be surprised to know… I have 4 younger siblings that I am incredibly close with and speak to almost daily. Three of us like within a 2 mile radius of our childhood home, where our parents still live.
Brooke Wagner
Specialist, SelinsgroveFavorite quote: “I remained too much in my head and ended up losing my mind.” —Edgar Allan Poe
Brief Background: I was born and raised in Middleburg, PA and currently live only a few miles away in Beaver Springs. I live there with my 17-year-old son, Evan, and our 9-year-old shih doodle named Ridge. I have been in the healthcare field in one way or another since 2011, starting as a direct care worker for a non-medical homecare agency serving the elderly population. I moved up within that company to Office Manager and in 2022, decided that it was time to try something new. I then took a position as a Program Supervisor for company with residential group homes for the intellectually disabled. After 3 years there, I decided that the environment was not for me and found the position here with at UCP, and I absolutely love it here. All of my coworkers and manager have been fantastic since I started in 2025, and I couldn’t ask for a better team!
When I am not working… Spending time with my family and close friends, and especially my son. I also enjoy crocheting, reading, going to amusement parks, and roller skating in my free time.
Seblework Workagegnehu
Specialist, LititzFavorite quote: Those who are waiting for the Lord will have new strength; they will get wings like eagles: running, they will not be tired, and walking, they will have no weariness. Isaiah 40:31
Brief background: I was born in a small town in Asmera, Eritrea called Mayhaber where my father was stationed as a soldier. My family and I moved to Ethiopia when I was 3 months old and I was raised there with 4 siblings. At the age of 27, I moved to the United States and started my career. I have worked in various industries including food, retail, cosmetology, and caregiving. I am married to my childhood sweetheart, Ashagre, and have 4 lovely children ranging from ages 9-31. I recently joined the UCP team and have loved working here since. I cannot wait to continue growing and positively contributing to the company.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working… I love to spend time with my husband, children and in-laws. I also love being an active member of my church community and contributing to various local initiatives.
Genevieve Zercher
Specialist, LititzFavorite activity: Learning. I’m a very curious person and I love to learn. I most enjoy learning new arts and craft techniques. If I’m watching television it’s usually a documentary and my stack of books to be read is mostly non-fiction.
Brief background: I started in human services as Direct Support staff, have spent time working as an Intensive Case Manager, Supports Coordinator and Residential Supervisor before landing here at UCP. My favorite part about working in human services is of course the people. I’ve worked with people from so many walks of life. I love taking the time to listen. It’s so interesting hearing people’s stories and how they’ve overcome obstacles. You can learn something from anyone and everyone. I’m happy to be a part of supporting people to have full, enriching lives.
When I am not working… I am with my two kids, two cats, bunny and foster dog. You’d think they keep me busy enough with band, scouts and adoption events, but I have a passion for community involvement and spend a good deal of my time serving my community in various ways. When I need to recharge, I enjoy gardening and making art.
You would be surprised to know… I enjoy building things and built my dining room table by myself.
Marlene Kramer
Hiring Coordinator, Camp Hill and LititzFavorite book: I enjoy many different genres of movies and books, but I tend to gravitate towards Mysteries and Suspense. No Horror though.
Brief background: I am the oldest of five and grew up in a small town in upstate New York. My high school graduating class was a whopping 96 students, and I knew most of them on a personal level. I believe that it is our relationships that have the biggest impact on our lives, not our chosen professions. I have worked at several different jobs in several different industries over the years. From Insurance to healthcare to transportation to recruiting to consulting. In each of these jobs, I learned valuable life skills and made lasting relationships. I consider that a success. I came to UCP in April of 2019 and was amazed at how different this organization is from all of the others I have worked for. I am very grateful that I came to be in this position and can’t imagine working anywhere else now.
When I am not working… I like to travel whenever I can, I love to read but mostly I enjoy spending time with my granddaughter.
You would be surprised to know… I am very sentimental.
Lori Miller
Hiring Coordinator, SelinsgroveMy new favorite movie: One Battle After Another.
Brief Background: My name is Lori Miller, and I have only been working with UCP for a month. Prior to working at UCP I worked with the Administrative Entity at Lycoming Clinton Joinder. I was also a Supports Coordinator there for three years. I was a SC at CMSU for 10 years as well.
When I am not working… I love to read, to work on puzzles and to take my puppy (he is 9 years old) for walks. My husband and I do all we can to support our children (32 and 22) in their life endeavors.
You would be surprised to know… Only a few people know that I drove from my home to San Diego, stopping at numerous National Parks, and then back to the PlayStation Theatre in New York City to watch my daughter dance on Broadway. When it’s time I will retire to San Diego.
Marilyn Ramos
Hiring Coordinator, Lititz
Celeste Brown
Clerical Assistant, Camp HillBrief Background: I am an experienced professional with several years of service in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, where I developed a strong foundation in public service. My career has also included valuable work on the Marcellus Shale project with SAIC, collaborating with numerous agencies to achieve our project goals.
When I am not working… Beyond my professional life, I am a proud grandmother of ten wonderful grandchildren, ranging in age from 11 to 27, and I cherish my two great-grandbabies, a six-year-old boy and a two-year-old girl. In my leisure time, I enjoy the soulful sounds of old R&B music, traveling to new destinations, and indulging in friendly games of Bingo.
You would be surprised to know… I thrive in dynamic environments and excel at multitasking, always striving to make meaningful connections with those around me.
Glenda Ettinger
Clerical Assistant, SelinsgroveFavorite book: Harry Potter
Brief background: I was born in Honduras which is in Central America and was adopted at 2 along with my brother. I was raised by both of my parents who have been married for 48 years. I am married and have a 13-year-old daughter and a 2-month-old newborn daughter. I currently reside in Selinsgrove and plan to raise my family here until both of my girls finish high school. I am an animal lover and have a 5-year-old Husky named Thor and would adopt every animal who needed a home if I could. I have a very big family and my parents have 12 grandchildren and they love every minute of being grandparents. I love my job and the people I get to work with every day. I have never worked with a company that was more family focused before and it’s comforting knowing that they understand that family is very important.
When I am not working… I enjoy spending time with my Family and Friends. I also enjoy watching movies and reading books when I have some quiet time to myself. When the weather is nice, you can find me outside in my brothers swimming pool.
You would be surprised to know… I was adopted and I went back when I was 15 years old to meet my birth Mother. I learned that I was the youngest of 12 kids. I also learned I was very poor and that was the main reason I was given up for adoption. My birth Mother’s House was no bigger than my office that I currently work in. I remember her telling me that it took a weeks’ worth of work to be able to afford a 2 liter of soda. I am grateful to her for knowing giving me up was her best option for me and grateful to my birth parents for having the biggest hearts to take me.
Tiffany Groff
Clerical Assistant, LititzFavorite movie: Back to the Future
Brief background: I was born in New Jersey and moved to Ephrata when I was 15. I have lived in the Lancaster County area since. It took me a while to get used to the area, PA is very different from where I grew up. I have a background in culinary, office work, amongst other things. I like learning new things, even if I do not do it perfectly.
When I am not working… I enjoy the simple things in life, our pets, planting flowers, a bird singing, a good book, a funny movie. My husband and I like traveling to different states, from Maine to South Florida. My dream is to have a small farm in the mountains.
KiAndre Powley
Office Assistant, Camp HillFavorite movie: Santa Clause 3.
Brief background: I was born in 1991 in Camp Hill. I live in my own apartment in Mechanicsburg. I have 3 sisters, 1 brother and 1 brother-in-law. I started working at UCP in 2015 in fiscal and I now work in Agency with Choice. I like working here and will retire in 2056.
When I am not working… I like to watch movies and listen to music.
You would be surprised to know… I have 1 older sister and 2 younger sisters.
Melissa Zerby
Clerical Assistant, SelinsgroveBrief background: I started working at UCP in July 2011. I began working part time with the Consumer Employed Program and then eventually full time working with Agency with Choice.
I was born and raised in central PA and currently reside only 15 miles from my childhood home. My husband and I have 3 grown children: Adam, a Penn Tech graduate (2016), Andrew, a Penn State Law school graduate (May 2022) and a daughter, Caroline a student at Penn State University.
When I am not working… In the past, my time was spent with our children and their sporting activities (including football, wrestling, golf, softball). However, Chuck and I started a new phase of life as “empty nesters”. Although it’s an adjustment, we are looking forward to taking fun mini-vacations and working on some home projects. I am also working on a family recipe collection which has been in the works for several years and recently started a collection of Hall pottery and vintage Pyrex.
You would be surprised to know… I love baking and learning to decorate cookies.
Participant Direction
Participant Direction, also referred to as Self Direction, allows participants to have more control over where, when and how their services and supports are received. Participants have a greater amount of choice and control than with a traditional model of service. For example, the Managing Employer will manage the day-to-day operations in the home such as the service delivered based on the Individual Support Plan, the times and days services are delivered, and the location services are delivered (home or community).
Find a Service
UCP Agency with Choice provides services throughout Central Pennsylvania. Click or tap a county to learn more. Click here to find Administrative Office information for your county.