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 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: I have been blessed to work with an amazing team here at UCP since 2009. I am honored to learn so much from so many people while being trusted to assist those that choose us to support them. In my earlier years, I started as a Supports Coordinator before moving over to home and community-based services. Eventually transitioning into supporting those that choose the participant directed model, Agency with Choice. I am grateful to be part of the UCP family.
When I am not working: I enjoy spending time with my family including our fur baby, Bo. We started a new adventure, so we are enjoying the outdoors and all the wildlife that comes along with living in the mountains. I love being outside in the fresh air. My personal focus continues to be helping my children be as successful as possible in college. We have enjoyed seeing them grow and be pushed out of their comfort zones by working through challenges that are new to them.
You would be surprised to know: I practice minimalism both personally and professionally. I prefer experiences over items, needs over wants and being grateful. With this, I am able to focus on the positive accomplishments that may seem small to some but in reality, are great strides to most.
Elizabeth Hershey
Manager, LititzFavorite quote: You’re off to Great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting So……Get on your way! Dr Seuss
Brief background: I was born and raised in Lebanon, PA. I am blessed to have a great family who is very supportive of my wild and crazy ideas. My husband of 22 years and I have two handsome boys and a dog named Chase.
I started my human service journey in 1992 and had no clue I would still be on that journey 30 years later. I started out in residential homes, worked with families in their home and community and in a CPS 2380 / 2390 facility. I have experienced many things throughout the years and know that I learn something new every day. Coming to UCP was not something I was expecting to do, but when the opportunity arose, I took a leap of faith this journey was where I needed to be.
When I’m not working: When I am not working you can find me volunteering my time as the president of the LHS Athletic Boosters. Most of the time I am at the concession stand, but never miss a game or match my boys are involved in. Depending on the seasons I am at the football field, or a wrestling match. I normally am yelling hit somebody, you got to move or take him down. I am my boys #1 fan! I am also active in my church’s Christian Education Program, where I coordinate the Sunday School year.
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. I started my career out of high school in the healthcare field hoping to become a nurse. After having children, I moved into the childcare field where I worked until 2013. I began working with UCP in the Agency with Choice program as a Part time Assistant Manager and then moved to the Manager role, I am in my 11th year with UCP. I enjoy coming to work helping individuals and their families. I am grateful to be part of an amazing organization. I am married and my husband and I reside in the town of Selinsgrove. We have 4 children, 1 daughter in law, 2 dogs and 1 cat.
When I am not working… I enjoy going to dirt track races, relaxing outside on our patio, remodeling projects in our home, or making memories with friends and family.
You would be surprised to know… that I enjoy playing the piano.
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.
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, SelinsgroveFavorite quote: “You miss 100% of the chances you don’t take!”
Brief 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 an 11-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 an 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 12 years with the company, and I am not going anywhere, until RETIREMENT that is! 😊
When I am not working… We spend most of our days attending/coaching my son’s many sports (basketball, football, and baseball). We live a very fast lifestyle, but I wouldn’t change it for the world! When we aren’t tending to sports, etc. you will ALWAYS catch us with family. Family is of utmost importance to our entire family, and you can NEVER have too many memories with them. 😉 We spend as much time as possible together.
You would be surprised to know… I have two sets of identical twin nieces, 15 years apart and another set of twins(fraternal), who recently made their appearance into the world in July.
Another fact that most find interesting—My husband, his father, his brother (who is 6 months older than him), my son and his oldest son, are ALL named Ricardo (different middle names like mentioned above). My brother in law’s youngest son has Ricardo as his middle name. My brother-in-law came to stay with us temporarily until he found a home to purchase, and you would think that when you yell “Ricky”, you would get multiple responses…NOPE, no one answers and they’re excuse is: “I thought you were talking to Tio/Dad/Cousin!” But if I yell “FOOD”, they ALL come! 😊
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.
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 13 years. We have two children. We have an 11-year old son named Raylan and a 9 year old daughter named Rylee. We also have a blue heeler puppy named Luna. I have worked in the healthcare field for 12 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, watching football, going to yard sales, playing bingo, and planning/going on vacation.
You would be surprised to know : I love the red 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 from 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 recently got married and we moved to Millville. We had been together for about 9 years before getting married in September. We have one very energetic yellow lab named Joy. I recently 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.
Heather Johnson
Specialist, LititzFavorite quote: Practice Kindness
Brief background: I was born in Denver PA but now live in Ephrata with my husband Jim. We have been married for 7 years. We have a cat, Chloey that we just enjoy taking care of. I graduated from Penn State with a Bachelor’s Degree. I have been in the field for 23 years.
When I’m not working: I enjoy spending time with my husband, friends, and family. I like to travel, try new restaurants, shopping, and mowing my grass. I love to be outside. I enjoy volunteering with the Denver Fair and Nite to Shine.
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 10 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 elsewhere! I manage and bartend on the weekends and sometimes volunteer during the summer at a local music venue. 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 11-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 a Frenchie named Pepper. 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 myself and my 2 siblings 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.
Mekdes Woldu
Specialist, LititzFavorite place: Beaches nearby mountains
Brief background: I was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where I spent a memorable childhood for seven years then moved to the US in 2007 with my family. While studying at Millersville University, I interned at the Lancaster Recreation Center and worked as a Direct Support Professional. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Communications with an option in public relations and served clients as a habilitation technician. In my experiences as a marketing intern and in human services, it has brought me great joy to assist the clients and individuals I worked with, making a positive difference in each of their lives. I’m most grateful for my parents, my older brother and families on both sides, as we have gotten closer over the years. They are my blessing, and it brings me great joy to spend time with them as much as possible.
When I am not working: I enjoy spending quality time with my friends and family. Travelling is very freeing to me, as it opens me up to the great world that we live in. I love to explore and experience different cultures, foods, and marvel at architectural beauty and natural landscapes. Singing worship songs, cooking, painting, working out, and being in nature bring me peace of mind as well.
You would be surprised to know: My name Mekdes means temple of God in Amharic, which is an Ethiopian language.
Seblework Workagegnehu
Specialist, LititzFavorite quote: Those who are waiting for the Lors 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.
Laura Haines
Hiring Coordinator, LititzFavorite quote: Good and Bad….Everything happens for a reason!
Brief Background: I was born & raised in Lititz Pa. I married my husband in December 2012, after being together for over 10 years. We now reside in East Petersburg, PA. We have one beautiful, amazing son, and two crazy beagle puppies. I graduated from Warwick High in 2003. I then went to cosmetology school, where I worked in the industry for about 6 years. After that I was offered a job in dentistry, as a greeter and continued to progress my career to be an Insurance coordinator over the next 15 years. I enjoyed my time in dentistry, but needed more in my life, I came upon the hiring coordinator for Agency with Choice, and it has been a great decision. I am so happy to be here and get to be the first face you meet at this wonderful organization!
When I’m not working: My family and I enjoy spending our weekends in Shunk,PA at our cabin in the mountains. I spend most of my free time with my son, going to Karate, wrestling, or just playing outside. I have two very energetic puppies that love and need a nice long walk at least twice a day. I love to shop & spend any quality time I can get with my family and close friends.
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.
Vicki Oxenrider
Hiring Coordinator, SelinsgroveFavorite book: I love all kinds of books especially biographies and non-fiction. I think it is important to understand experiences of others.
Favorite quote: All advocacy is, at its core, an exercise in empathy. Samantha Power
Brief background: I started out my career in banking for many years. I held several positions in banking, and I also demonstrated the “Brand New” technology of the ATM in the lobby of the bank in 1981! I was awarded “Banker of Year in 1996”. In 1996, I was offered a position in Development at Susquehanna University working with naming opportunities for high level donors. I met so many fascinating and wonderful people of my 20 years at SU. After enjoying a few years early of retirement, I was thrilled to join UCP in 2017! I love helping people obtain the services they need to make their lives more enjoyable and sustainable.
I have a wonderful husband, 2 grown children, 5 grandchildren, and 2 French Bulldogs.
When I am not working… I spend time in my small silversmith studio making sterling silver jewelry. I love spending time with my family and attending their sports events.
You would be surprised to know… I am a HUGE NY Met’s Baseball fan and love going to games at NY’s Citi Field. (Covid has kept us away for the last few years)
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.
What do you enjoying doing when you are not working? When I am not at work 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 (Chuck) and I will be celebrating 30 years of marriage this fall. We have 3 grown children: Adam, a Penn Tech graduate (2016), Andrew, a Penn State Law school graduate (May 2022) and a daughter, Caroline who will be starting Penn State University in the fall.
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 will soon be starting a new phase of life as “empty nesters”. Although it will be 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 my job and truly appreciate working for such a great company.
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.