Casino Night for UPP!

Faith Collins and her family for years and was somewhat aware of her activities with a group called "UPP!" but had never gotten to see it in action until this night.

Faith is the Director of a non-profit organization called Uniquely Perfect People, or UPP!, which is an advocacy group for special needs individuals in and around the Mountain View area. They currently have about 30 members of all ages from toddlers to elderly.

UPP! is in their ninth year of operation and usually hosts 5 events per year. COVID-19 made things difficult for a few years but the group is back on track, beginning the year with their Spring Fling. This year’s theme was "Casino Night." Members and volunteers dressed in their formal wear and entered the Mountain View Community Center to find it transformed into a flashy, glamorous casino! They had a full snack bar, décor, photo booth, and lots of dancing. The joy on the faces of the members was truly heart-warming. They didn't hesitate to hit the dance floor and dance to their favorite songs. They even crowned their King and Queen for the night. Throughout the year, UPP! also hosts a BBQ/Park Day, an end of summer pool day, Fall Festival, and a Christmas party.

Members also try to get involved in community activities when possible. "This helps our members be involved in the community and allows the community to interact with our group. This also gives us a chance to give back to the community that helps support our events," said Collins. The group has amazing local sponsors who help with financial needs as well as volunteer needs for the group. 2023 sponsors for Uniquely Perfect People include Smith's Flooring, Abel Insurance, Mountain View Oil and Propane, Signal, Mountain View Lumber Company, Simmons Bank, West Plains Bank – Liberty Branch, Bank of Alton – Birch Tree Branch, Brown's Lawn and Garden, Cutting Edge Salon, as well as some private donations. Faith Collins is appreciative of all donors and volunteers and is always ready for more! You can contact her about sponsorship or membership at 417-247-0140.