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In This Issue:
- Next Week: Documentary Screening with The Arc & RRCC
- Advocating for Families Through the Children's Disability Advisory Committee
- April Is Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month
- Self-Advocates & Family Members: Apply for JFK Partners Traineeships
- In the News: Adaptive Running Shoe from Adidas
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Next Week: Documentary Screening with The Arc & RRCC
This Autism Acceptance Month, learn more about the experiences of the autism community by joining us for a screening of In a Different Key! On April 7th, we’re partnering with Red Rocks Community College (RRCC) to screen this award-winning documentary for our local community.
Caren Zucker and John Donvan’s In a Different Key follows the story of the first man to be diagnosed with autism, spotlighting the autism community and the fight for inclusion. Immediately after the screening, our team will facilitate a post-viewing discussion about the film. Refreshments will be provided.
Anyone is welcome to attend this free community event!
When: Tuesday, April 7th, 3:00pm-5:30pm
Where: Red Rocks Community College Lakewood Campus: 13300 W 6th Ave, Lakewood, CO 80228 – The Den (inside the lower West Entrance)
If you would like to attend, please email info@arcjc.org, noting the number of people in your party and any needs for accommodations.
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Advocating for Families Through the Children's Disability Advisory Committee
Did you know? As part of The Arc-JCC&GC’s work to protect and promote the rights of people with IDD, our advocates serve on various boards and committees, uplifting the interests of the IDD community. Participating in committees at the county, state, and national level, we are determined to ensure the needs of those with IDD are at the forefront of discussions about education, employment, housing, and more.
We’d like to keep you in the know about this important work! Through our weekly eUpdate, we’ll be sharing more about many of the committees on which our advocates serve. Keep an eye on our newsletter for stories about this crucial way in which we advocate for our community.
Today, we’re highlighting the Children’s Disability Advisory Committee (CDAC). Click the button below to read more about all the committee does, and how you can get involved.
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April Is Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month
Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month raises awareness of the prevalence of sexual violence and educates communities on how to prevent sexual violence.
Tragically, studies have shown that people with IDD face a heightened risk of experiencing sexual assault. It is crucial for individuals with IDD to have access to information that can help them stay safe.
There are resources to help you if you have experienced sexual assault. There are also resources to help you learn how to have safe relationships.
If you have experienced sexual assault, the following organizations can help you.
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PorchLight: A Family Justice Center: Provides comprehensive legal, emotional and critical supportive services for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, abuse of at-risk individuals, elder abuse, and human trafficking. The center is centrally located in Jefferson County. It is a safe, caring environment that provides one-stop services and support.
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The Initiative: A Colorado-based nonprofit organization specializing in providing services, support, and resources to people with disabilities who are experiencing domestic violence, abuse, neglect, sexual assault, or other violent crime. While The Initiative specializes in serving people with disabilities, they will work with all survivors, regardless of disability status, documentation, immigration status, sexual orientation, or identity.
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Jefferson Center for Mental Health: A nonprofit, community-focused mental health care and substance use services provider. They offer hope and support to individuals and families who are struggling with mental health issues.
If you would like to learn about healthy relationships, please visit our website. On our Healthy Relationships page, you will find easy-to-understand resources that explain boundaries, consent, and other important topics.
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Self-Advocates & Family Members: Apply for JFK Partners Traineeships
Are you an individual with IDD or a family member who is looking to develop your skills and build a career in the disability space?
JFK Partners, a Colorado University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, is taking applications for its next cohort of trainees. The trainee program is for graduate students or emerging professionals in the disability space. More information from JFK Partners below:
JFK Partners offers training opportunities for graduate students and emerging professionals interested in specializing in working with individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Our training topics are diverse, but share the common goal of enhancing the quality of services for children, youth, and adults with disabilities and their families.
As part of the University of Colorado School of Medicine, JFK Partners’ faculty offer knowledge and experience that guides each trainee’s learning experiences. Training experiences are composed of coursework, a Scholarly Project, practicum, and/or clinical placements. Stipends from federal grants are provided to program participants as they complete their training year.
Learn more using the links below:
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In the News: Adaptive Running Shoe from Adidas
Adidas has rolled out a new shoe for runners with disabilities! The new adaptive shoe, Supernova Rise 3 Adaptive, was released on World Down Syndrome Day 2026, sparking conversations about inclusivity, accessibility, and the physical barriers that can hinder participation for athletes with disabilities.
Designed with input from individuals with disabilities, including Chris Nikic, the first person with Down syndrome to complete an Ironman, the shoe boasts several adaptive features like an easy-step-in heel, low-pressure lacing system, tactile elements, and more.
You can learn more about the Supernova Rise 3 Adaptive here.
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