We at Aspire are driven by the core belief that children and adults with developmental disabilities have the right to realize their full potential and live as independently as possible. Aspire compassionately and relentlessly works toward facilitating this end.

Since 1947, we have served individuals with cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, epilepsy, autism and other neurological impairments. We also provide services and support to persons who are challenged physically and cognitively as a result of traumatic brain injuries, strokes, hearing and visual impairments, as well as other disabling conditions.

Our total commitment to the development of innovative, individualized programs, continual integration of the developmentally disabled within the community and to providing full-service solutions to the populations it serves, makes Aspire the leading agency of its kind and a true asset to the Western New York community.

Mission

Aspire’s mission is to help children and adults with developmental disabilities, cerebral palsy, and conditions with similar personal and family effects live their lives to the fullest in keeping with their informed choices.

Vision

Aspire of WNY is a preferred service provider, collaborator and employer; a driving force in the community. Aspire envisions full participation of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of community living.

Values

Respect – We treat individuals, families we serve, fellow employees and members of our community with dignity and appreciation of their uniqueness, rights and beliefs.

Accountability – We meet our responsibilities to the individuals we serve with a focus on individual success, safety, security, confidentiality and communications. We regularly report to the community and agency stakeholders.

Integrity – We operate in a manner that demonstrates honesty, embraces truthfulness and is based on ethical principles.

People – We commit to person-centered supports and embrace informed choice for the individuals we serve. We believe our employees are our greatest asset, and we support personal and career growth as well as quality leadership. We are advocates of full inclusion of people with disabilities in their communities.

Collaboration – We encourage and support collaboration with other providers, which helps to advance the field of services to people with disabilities.

Teamwork – We embrace cooperative relationships that strive to multiply the talents of our employees and promote problem solving.

Excellence – We perform our work efficiently and effectively, and encourage the pursuit of high quality performance through innovation, best practices and continuous improvement.

Change – We accept and embrace change.

Quality Assurance

Aspire's Quality Assurance/Quality Improvement (QA/QI) Plan is an ever evolving process striving to ensure excellent quality services for all the people we serve. Click here to learn more.

History

In 1947, Aspire of Western New York (formerly UCP of WNY) was formed by a small group of parents in order to secure support and services for their children with cerebral palsy.

Over the decades, the agency’s scope expanded dramatically and people with any and all developmental disabilities came to take advantage of the innovative and comprehensive programs and services. By 2003, less than 35 percent of those served had cerebral palsy. The remaining individuals included those with mental retardation, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury and other neurological conditions.

In light of this, the agency felt a new name that more fully represented the spirit of the organization should be developed. On March 14, 2003, the agency became known as Aspire of Western New York.

Read more about the agency’s history: Firm Foundations Laid in First Decade.