The Westside Urban Forum honored United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties (UCP) last month for developing the Hacienda del Mar housing complex for people with disabilities in Santa Monica.

Every year the Westside Urban Forum recognizes Community development projects, programs, policies and academic studies that demonstrate excellence in urban development and community building.

"The Hacienda del Mar housing development proves people with disabilities don't have to trade accessibility with quality living space." said Ronald S. Cohen, Executive Director of UCP of Greater Los Angeles. "We are deeply honored to accept the Westside Urban Forum award."

The oldest existing government building in Santa Monica, Hacienda del Mar was designed as a county health facility more than 80 years ago. Through a partnership with the City of Santa Monica, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the local philanthropic community, UCP remade the Hacienda del Mar into an apartment complex for people with disabilities.

The historic landmark now contains thirteen accessible apartment units with roll-in showers, tilt mirrors and infrared door opener.

The UCP Independent Living Division also provides support services for tenants.

"[Hacienda del Mar] combines the historic preservation and expansion of an existing facility in an unusual way, demonstrating that at-risk housing can be done better," said one Westside Urban Forum judge.

The 2004 Westside Urban Forum award recipients also included the Lee Group and the Santa Monica Mountains Conservatory.

For more information about United Cerebral Palsy, visit www.ucpla.org or call (818) 782-2211.

(Source: Santa Monica Mirror, Volume 6, Issue 4. July 8-14, 2004.)