Isabelle's Kids

Isabelle’s Kids is a national initiative of United Cerebral Palsy that endeavors to empower children and youth with disabilities to live without limits. Named in honor of UCP co-founder Isabelle Goldenson, Isabelle’s Kids addresses the countless challenges faced by children and youth with disabilities, including school, friends, play and growing up with self-confidence. United Cerebral Palsy, through its national network of affiliates, encourages, supports and mentors a new generation of leaders with disabilities to contribute to their communities and achieve their dreams.

United Cerebral Palsy and Children’s Rights  published a report in 2006 revealing that at least one-third of the more than 500,000 children and youth in American foster care systems had disabilities. The report, titled Forgotten Children: A Case for Action for Children and Youth with Disabilities in Foster Care, also asserts that state foster care systems have largely failed to address the unique needs of children with disabilities and the families who care for them.

The report is a summary and analysis of a range of data and research literature, and is a first-of-its-kind review of how foster care systems serve children and youth with disabilities.