Provider Support Program is Opening Doors

When Amanda started working with her personal trainer, Ruth, from GYMGUYZ Denver South, she gained more than a fitness routine and nutrition coaching. She gained confidence, strength, and a new sense of accomplishment. 

Amanda is one of several people benefiting from DDRC Provider Support Program, which helps remove barriers that often prevent people who live in Jefferson County with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) from accessing services they need—like wellness programs. The program helps ensure essential services and resources are available to those who need them, helping build a stronger, more inclusive community.

"GYMGUYZ, a mobile fitness and wellness company, is especially aware of barriers and attentive to the needs of people with IDD," said Julia Panucza, who oversees DDRC's Community Funding Programs. Participants receive a fitness assessment, 12 weeks of in-home personal training, nutrition support, a gear bag, and a progress assessment. "I love that participants can work out at home with their trainer—or even at a neighborhood park," Julia added. 

For Barb, owner of GYMGUYZ Denver South and mother of a child with a disability, the work is deeply personal. "Our goal is to help people in the IDD community improve their quality of life by establishing healthy habits in fitness and nutrition," she said. Barb noted that the program emphasizes individualized goals, progress tracking, and celebrating achievements along the way. "We're grateful for the DDRC Provider Program that helps make this opportunity possible."

Amanda's results have been inspiring. "I feel stronger," she said. “I like squats, step-ups, and especially working with Ruth because she helps me be better." 

Ruth has seen Amanda's growth firsthand. "Amanda is a joy to work with. Her endurance, strength, balance, and coordination have all improved, and she's always willing to try new things." 

Amanda's father says the changes extend well beyond fitness. "Her confidence has really grown. She looks forward to every session, has more energy, and even exercises on her own now. I wouldn't trade this program for anything." 

Amanda's story is a powerful reminder that when barriers are removed, people with IDD can thrive. Sometimes the most meaningful results aren't measured in pounds lifted or repetitions completed, but in confidence, independence, and happiness. 

Jefferson County residents interested in learning more about GYMGUYZ Denver South can download their flyer (below) and contact them directly at 303-848-8491. GYMGUYZ Denver South is just one of many organizations accessing the DDRC Provider Support Program to create opportunities and address unmet needs for people with IDD throughout our community funding. For information please visit the Community Programs page on DDRC's website.

More Time to Recharge: DDRC Group Respite

Caring for a child with extensive needs is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be demanding. DDRC’s Friday night Group Respite program gives caregivers a chance to rest, recharge, and enjoy personal time, while their child spends an evening in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. 

Children ages 3 to 17 who receive services through the Children’s Extensive Support (CES) Waiver are invited to join us at the Weiland Center in Lakewood, conveniently located near South Kipling Parkway and Highway 285. The center features a large indoor gym, sensory room, music room, craft space, outdoor areas, a full kitchen, and plenty of parking.  

Each night is personalized and shaped by the interests of the children attending. Activities may include casual gym games, playing with the air hockey or mini golf sets, exploring music with the piano, drums, shakers, or guitar, getting creative with paint, markers, and assorted craft materials, experiencing the sensory room and more. Together, these activities create opportunities for children to have fun and explore in a supportive environment. 

The benefits extend beyond the children. As DDRC Program Manager Hanna Gibson shares, “It’s not uncommon to see parents arrive at pick-up with a more relaxed smile at the end of the night. One parent told us how grateful they were for the program because it gave them the chance to enjoy a Friday evening activity of their own.” 

Interested in learning more? Contact Hanna as she can answer your questions, provide enrollment materials, and help guide you through the enrollment process. Email Hanna at Hanna.Gibson@ddrcco.com. 

Help Us Open Doors to Employment Opportunities

DDRC is looking for businesses willing to host a workplace visit for the people we serve or to connect with one of our Employment Specialists. These experiences help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities explore careers, learn about different workplace environments, and envision how they can contribute while building meaningful careers. 

Do you work for a company that might be interested in hosting workplace visits and learning opportunities? Or do you have a friend, family member, or business contact who could help us make a connection? 

Please share your suggestions through our survey: DDRC Career Connections Survey. 

We’re seeking input soon, but if a connection comes to mind later, we'd still love to hear from you! Send suggestions anytime to EmploymentFirst@ddrcco.com.  

At DDRC, we’re driven by the belief that everyone who can work and wants a career deserves the opportunity and support to make those goals a reality. Together, we can create new pathways to meaningful employment and community inclusion. 

Hit the Road with Our Route 66 Online Auction!

The DDRC Longest Drive Golf Tournament Online Auction is in high gear until  August 10, and anyone can get in on the action. Bid on exciting packages, unique experiences, baskets, and more while supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our community. 

Every bid helps drive DDRC's mission forward! Click the auction link below and see the incredible items up for bid. Here are just a few of them:  

• A signed baseball bat from Rockies shortstop Ezequiel Tovar,  
• A Crested Butte Nordic Ski Package featuring two day passes and rentals,  
• The popular Black Hawk Jackpot, featuring two separate buffets and an evening at The Lodge!  

There's even more, so find your can't-miss items, place your winning bids, and drive the difference for DDRC! 

Jeffco Back-to-School Bash Returns August 8

Jeffco families, be sure to mark your calendars for an exciting event—the annual Jeffco Schools Back-to-School Bash on Saturday, August 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Jeffco Stadium (500 Kipling St., Lakewood). 

Hosted by Jefferson County Schools and the Jeffco Schools Foundation, this free, family-friendly celebration offers a fun and welcoming way to gear up for the 2026–27 school year. Representatives from Jeffco Schools, local businesses, nonprofits, and student clubs will be on hand to share helpful information and resources to support student success. Attendees can enjoy music, entertainment, games, treats, and giveaways while exploring a wide range of information booths. DDRC will be there with a booth too! 

If you’re looking to connect with your community and learn more about school programs and resources while enjoying a day of family fun, don’t miss this bash. Come connect, explore, and get ready for a great year ahead! 

DDRC Community Funding Programs Create Opportunities for Jefferson County Residents

DDRC is encouraging community organizations, service providers, and individuals and families to explore opportunities through its Community Funding Programs, which help address unmet needs and expand opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and delays in Jefferson County.

The Provider Support Program offers funding to provider, community organizations, advocacy agencies, and schools serving individuals with IDD or delays. This program ensures essential services and resources are available to those who need them, helping build a stronger, more inclusive community.

The Unmet Needs Program provides critical support for children and adults with IDD who live at home with their families in Jefferson County. The program helps cover essential expenses not funded through other sources, including Medicaid and the Family Support Services Program (FSSP), allowing individuals to remain in supportive family environments. 

DDRC also offers the Self-Determination Initiative, which provides funding to Jefferson County residents age 18 and older with IDD to pursue personal goals, develop skills, explore interests, and increase independence. 

Organizations, individuals, and families who may be eligible are encouraged to learn more. For information, visit DDRC's Community Funding Programs page.

Annual Legislative BBQ - September 10, 2026 

Join us for the Annual Legislative BBQ, a tradition that has brought community members, elected leaders, and candidates together for more than 25 years. This special event offers an opportunity to connect with local, state, and federal representatives, engage in meaningful conversations, and share perspectives on the issues that matter most. 

Enjoy an evening of tasty, complimentary BBQ, networking, and community dialogue while learning more about the challenges and opportunities facing individuals, families, and households with disabilities, mental health needs, and older adults throughout Jefferson County. Together, we can foster understanding, strengthen relationships, and help create a more inclusive and supportive community for all. 

This free community event is proudly co-hosted by DDRC, the Action Center, Family Tree, Jefferson Center, and Seniors Resource Center. We look forward to bringing our community together to connect, learn, and inspire positive change. 

Event Details: 

📅 Thursday, September 10, 2026 

🕓 4:30 – 7:00 PM 

📍 Apex Community Center - 6842 Wadsworth Blvd, Arvada 

👨🏽‍💻 Advance registration requested. 

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