Catalina Rodriguez of Winters was in high school when she lost her 18-month-old son to complications from cerebral palsy. Now a sophomore at Solano College, she has won several awards for her advocacy work with UCP of Sacramento and Northern California to honor her son.

Rodriguez was named the 2011 Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy by the Association of Fundraising Professionals California Capital Chapter at the National Philanthropy Day Luncheon in November. In September, she was named a Local Hero by Bank of America, and in the same month, was a top 10 finalist for Most Influential College Student at the national Stay Classy Awards. This spring, she received the Youth Volunteer Award at Community Services Planning Council’s People Helping People Awards Luncheon and received the Youth Volunteer Spirit Award from the Volunteer Center of Sacramento.

“We are so proud of this incredible mom, whose love for her son shines through everything she does,” said Doug Bergman, president and CEO, UCP of Sacramento and Northern California, who nominated her for the awards.

Rodriguez dedicated her high school senior project to raising funds for UCP of Sacramento and Northern California, which empowers people with all developmental disabilities to live life without limits. Rodriguez’ senior project began in early 2010 when she formed a partnership with First Northern Bank in Winters. When customers made a donation, a paper heart was displayed. By the end of April 2010, the bank was covered in paper hearts. Rodriguez also held car washes, garage sales, a hike-a-thon and sold a spa to raise funds. She dedicated more than 300 hours and raised $7,800 for UCP.

Each month, UCP of Sacramento and Northern California serves 2,600 children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families in Butte, El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, Shasta, Sutter and Yolo counties. Programs include adaptive horseback riding, UCP’s Autism Center for Excellence at Sacramento State, adult day programs, independent living services, transportation and in-home respite care for families. For more information, visit www.ucpsacto.org.