Connections in Covid – Highlighting the friendships during the pandemic

For many people, the stay-at-home order imposed in response to the public health crisis has made 2020 a year of isolation. But for people with disabilities, the feeling of isolation was impacted further by the loss of direct supports and resources that they require to engage in daily activities.

As hope of vaccines look to bring the world to a brighter future in 2021, we know there is permanent change in our world. The pandemic made clear the great need for adaptive, smart technology and devices to prevent people with disabilities from becoming further disenfranchised from their communities.

With closures and restrictions, UCPLA has worked tirelessly in providing materials and training for the people we serve. We made sure they had the technology to keep the connections.

We have witnessed the growth of the people we serve each day. We are proud to be part of that and pledge to continue that effort in the year ahead.
Julianne, UCPLA is helping her use the time to develop her skills as an artist and a leader.

“I’ve learned to deal with what we have now,” Julianne Huang said. “I do art to keep myself going.”

Julianne, a 33-year-old L.A. area artist, has utilized UCPLA’s services for 15 years. During that time, her talents have grown into different mediums and artistic ideas.

From watercolor to acrylic paints, Julianne uses “all types of materials you could think of” to express herself creatively. This year is one of self-reflection. “It made me understand I’m more about art,” she said. “How it’s helped me express how I feel and life in general.”

Julianne says she is grateful for her health during this pandemic as well as the partnership that has blossomed between her and Martine, the Program Manager for the UCPLA Strathern Day Program that is currently
shuttered due to the pandemic. UCPLA had to pivot how day program supports and services were provided when all three of the day program locations shuttered in March.

Martine’s work with Julianne is one version of how the supports are administered online and in peoples’ homes. “We’ve bonded a lot over a number of things,” Julianne said. “We enjoy each other’s company.” Even in a time of social distancing, Martine Alcidas Favre finds her passion has brought her closer to the people she supports.

“I’ve realized I’m a people person more than ever,” Martine, now in her 26th year at UCPLA, said. “Julianne is my ambassador. When programs were open, anytime we had tours with our immersion programs, Julianne would help me host and bring energy to the Q&A sessions and really garner interest in joining.”

Though the introductions are virtual these days, the ability to share her passion with unfamiliar faces has been inspiring for Julianne.

“I like to meet new people,” Julianne said.

Throughout this period of quarantine, UCPLA has focused on helping the people it serves identify their unique strengths and build their skillsets. “What we’ve discovered with Julianne is she is a great host on Zoom,”
Martine said.

Julianne now co-hosts workshops on Thursdays, providing encouragement to others. She has also been successful as a partner to Martine, helping her
communicate better with other artists and people UCPLA supports.

“Understanding others’ speech patterns, she is a great translator,” Martine said. “Julianne has a great listening ear.” UCPLA programs have shifted online, inspiring the agency to find creative ways to provide meaningful content to those it serves. As a result, UCPLA has added 3D printing classes and even organizing karaoke over Zoom.

“The sky is the limit on what we can offer collaboratively as we work through this pandemic,” Martine said. “I do miss everyone. Not having everyone in the same physical space and speak to them, it is quite a
difference.” Even when life as we know it does return to “normal,” UCPLA will keep virtual elements and remote services because of the increased inclusion and access. “We see it does work,” Martine said.

Julianne is looking forward to 2021 bringing people together again. “I’d be so happy,” she said of the idea of having workshops resume in person. “Over the top happy.”

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