IDD Awareness Day at the State Capital | On March 19th, advocates, self-advocates, family members, and professionals gathered at the Colorado State Capitol for IDD Awareness Day, hosted by Alliance Colorado, The Arc of Colorado, and JFK Partners/CU Anschutz. The event celebrated the achievements of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) while recognizing those who support them. | | | | |
DDRC proudly honored its outstanding Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), including Lemba Amboko from Residential Services and Dezirae Gurule, an Employment Specialist, for their dedication to empowering individuals with IDD. DDRC’s 2024 DSP of the Year, Mamadou Ouattara, gave a moving speech about his journey, sharing how he learned that communication extends beyond language and how the IDD community embraced him as he embraced them.
The event also recognized Brent Belisle of The Arc of Jefferson County as the 2025 Advocate of the Year. Beyond the celebrations, the day underscored the need to sustain crucial funding and continue advocating for inclusion. The progress made is undeniable, but the work is far from over.
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  Important EI Funding Update | On March 13, 2025, the Joint Budget Committee (JBC) approved $2 million in additional funding to sustain Colorado’s Early Intervention program. While this funding helps ensure that families continue receiving services without disruption and that providers see no immediate changes to refund policies—including stipends, training payments, and travel reimbursements—the situation remains fluid. The Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) is actively working with the JBC, families, and community partners to protect these vital services and explore long-term sustainability strategies. Updates may follow as efforts to secure ongoing support continue. |  
| Several DDRC participants from the Weiland and Walters day programs took part in Meals on Wheels, a program that has supported seniors across the country for over 50 years. Through this initiative, DDRC volunteers delivered up to 100 meals per week in Arvada, Lakewood, Wheat Ridge, and surrounding areas, helping to combat food insecurity and isolation among older adults. Working in teams, they received delivery lists, picked up food, and distributed meals, with DDRC vans and Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) assisting with driving and navigation. Beyond providing nourishment, these deliveries fostered meaningful connections, reinforcing the Meals on Wheels mission to promote independence, well-being, and community support. | | |
 
Did You Know?
DDRC Has a Provider Support Funding Program
| Great news for IDD/DD service providers! DDRC’s Provider Support Funding (PSF) Program is offering funding to help providers overcome barriers, expand services, and bring innovative ideas to life. This opportunity is open to PASAs, community organizations, advocacy agencies, and schools supporting individuals with IDD or developmental delays—don’t miss out! |  
| Registration for Our Golf Tournament is Now Open | | |
Registration is officially open for DDRC’s 33rd Annual Golf Tournament, Rockin’ the Fairways! Mark your calendar for August 11th and get ready for a day of big swings, friendly competition, and rock ‘n’ roll vibes at the beautiful Hiwan Golf Club. More than just a great day on the course, this tournament helps fund DDRC’s essential programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities—so every putt makes a difference! Your registration includes 18 holes of golf, a golf cart, a delicious breakfast, fun on-the-green challenges, a post-tournament meal, and exclusive golfer gifts. Spots fill up fast, so sign up now and let’s tee up for a great cause!
| | Expanded Flexibility for Family Caregivers | | |
Since 2010, DDRC has empowered family members to receive payment for caring for their loved ones with intellectual or developmental disabilities. This service, available through various HCBS waivers (DD, SLS, CES), has provided families with flexibility and choice in their support.
As of January 1, 2025, DDRC has expanded this program even further! Family caregivers providing residential services can now contract with DDRC, offering even greater flexibility while ensuring high-quality, person-centered care. We continue to adapt to new guidelines and remain committed to supporting families in the best way possible.
Have any questions? Email ixsa.shea@ddrcco.com to learn more!
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Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day at GiGi's Playhouse
It was a joy to connect with the wonderful families and children at the World Down Syndrome Day Celebration hosted at GiGi's Playhouse in Denver. DDRC was proud to be part of this special event, where we had the chance to engage, celebrate, and introduce the range of services we provide. A big highlight of the event was our Therapeutic Recreation (TR) program team. They hosted a fun and interactive "fishing pond" game, reflecting the many fishing excursions we organize for participants. Therapeutic Recreation offers a wide variety of activities aimed at helping individuals with developmental disabilities improve their physical fitness, mobility, self-esteem, and social skills. By providing opportunities for participants to engage in enjoyable, supervised activities, TR helps them set and achieve personal goals while fostering meaningful connections with others. See how Therapeutic Recreation can support your loved ones.
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