Mai Family's Ongoing Impact on
Wellness and Opportunity | | |
On October 3, DDRC celebrated the grand opening, naming, and ribbon-cutting of the Mai Family Wellness Center, a new space designed to support the health, well-being, and independence of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities served in our Therapeutic Recreation Program. The event also honored the extraordinary legacy of Howard Mai, whose decades of service, leadership, and generosity helped make the center possible. We were delighted to have Kevin and Kathy Mabry, members of the extended Mai family, join us for the event.
Named in recognition of Mr. Mai's steadfast commitment to DDRC and the people we serve, the wellness center reflects his belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life with dignity, respect, and support. Alongside his wife, Charlotte, and through the Mai Family Trust, he helped strengthen our community and create opportunities that will benefit generations to come.
| |
The center features adaptive exercise and recreation equipment designed to meet a wide range of abilities and goals. Among its highlights are specialized exercise bikes that can be adjusted to accommodate wheelchair users, allowing individuals to receive arm and leg workouts based on their needs. The center also includes exercise mats, therapy balls, adaptive weights, wall-mounted resistance bands, and other equipment that supports strength, mobility, fitness, and recreation.
Glass multi-fold doors flood the room with light and create a seamless connection to the outdoors. A large hand-painted mural graces one wall, created by the late Laura Shreck, whose creativity and generosity in sharing her talents continue to inspire all who enter. Through every brushstroke, her artistic gift serves as a lasting tribute and will brighten the center for years to come.
| The Mai Wellness Center is more than a beautiful space inside our Walters building. It is a place of wellness, opportunity, and community that will help individuals thrive while honoring a legacy of compassion, generosity, and belief in every person's potential. | | Fall Into Love at DDRC's
IDD Speed Dating Event | | |
Looking to meet new people, make connections, and have some fun? Join us for DDRC's Fall Into Love IDD Speed Dating Event on Saturday, November 7, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Jack's Bar and Grill in Arvada. The event is designed for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) and offers a relaxed, welcoming opportunity to meet others and build meaningful connections.
Please register in advance. A $15 per person fee for food and one drink is payable at the door. However, participation is not dependent on purchasing food or a beverage.
While organized by DDRC, everyone in the IDD and disability community is welcome to join us. We are proud to provide an LGBTQ+ friendly environment where everyone is valued, respected, and included.
If you'd like to attend, please register soon so we can plan accordingly and create the best possible experience for all participants. We look forward to seeing you there!
Ready to join us? Sign up here or by using the QR code on the event flyer below.
| |
Make a Difference Through DDRC Starting November 1 | |
Beginning November 1, you can kick off the season of gratitude by supporting DDRC through Colorado Gives Day and the start of early giving. Thanks to donors like you, nearly 6,000 individuals and their families receive opportunities, services, and support through DDRC that help them thrive.
Every gift made now through December 8 is boosted by a $1 million+ Incentive Fund. Plus, the first $100 of any new monthly gift will be matched through a statewide $250,000 matching pool.
| |
Just 10 Days Away:
Enjoy Beau Jo's and Support DDRC | |
There's still time to plan a delicious meal for a great cause! Join DDRC on Thursday, November 12, at Beau Jo's Arvada, 7525 W. 53rd Ave., and help support our mission while enjoying one of Colorado's favorite places for pizza and more.
Whether you stop by for lunch, dinner, takeout, or purchase gift cards, Beau Jo's will donate 20% of your pre-tax purchase to DDRC. Just bring the event flyer and tell your server or the hostess you're there for DDRC to ensure your purchase is included.
While Beau Jo's is famous for its Colorado-style mountain pies, you'll also find appetizers, salads, calzones, pasta, and plenty of other crowd-pleasing options.
Gather your family, invite some friends, or take a night off from cooking and make your meal count for DDRC!
| | Celebrating Lauryn's Spirit Award | | |
Some journeys are defined not by obstacles, but by the courage to keep moving forward. This year, at DDRC's Annual Celebration, we were proud to recognize Lauryn Laursen with the Spirit Award, honoring individuals who are mastering the day-to-day challenges of living with a disability through perseverance, positivity, and personal achievement.
Lauryn's story is one of remarkable resilience and growth. As a teen and young adult, she faced significant anxiety, housing instability, and unsuccessful placements. Yet through every challenge, she remained determined to build a brighter future. With the support of her family, caring Host Home providers, and services through DDRC's Day Program, Lauryn found the stability and encouragement she needed to thrive.
Today, Lauryn is a confident self-advocate who speaks up for her needs and choices, nurtures meaningful relationships, and continues to grow in independence. Known for being insightful, compassionate, and willing to help others, she inspires those around her with her positive outlook and perseverance.
Lauryn shares: "Living with a disability and debilitating anxiety can make everyday life hard. I try my best to keep moving forward and never give up. I'm blessed with an amazing family, wonderful people in my program, and the best Host Home providers. God gives me strength to overcome challenges. My disability does not define who I am or how far I can go."
Our congratulations to Lauryn on this well-deserved recognition. Her spirit certainly shines!
| | Honoring the Lasting Legacy of
C. David Pemberton, II | | |
Some contributions leave an impact that lasts for generations, and David Pemberton's legacy is among them. We were proud to recognize him with the Legacy Award at our Annual Celebration. This award honors individuals whose dedication, leadership, generosity, and vision have created a lasting impact on DDRC and the people we serve.
For decades, David has provided steady leadership, thoughtful guidance, and unwavering advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. His service began with the Family Support Council, helping oversee support and funding for families. In 1996, he joined the DDRC Board of Directors and went on to serve as Board President from 2004 to 2022. Following his presidency, he continued his commitment to the organization as Immediate Past Chair. He also served for many years as the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners' appointee to the DDRC Board.
He helped guide DDRC through periods of growth, important decisions, and challenging times that required wisdom, patience, and a steadfast commitment to our mission, always bringing a calm presence and thoughtful leadership while keeping the people we serve at the center of every decision.
Because of David's generosity of time, experience, and energy, DDRC is stronger today and better positioned for the future. His legacy will continue to inspire and serve as a reminder of the difference one dedicated individual can make.
Our congratulations to Mr. Pemberton on this absolutely well-deserved honor! Thank you for the lasting legacy you have created for DDRC and the community we serve.
| | Partner of the Year Award: Developmental Disabilities Foundation Board | |
With deep and sincere gratitude, DDRC presented its Partner of the Year Award to the outgoing members of the Developmental Disabilities Foundation (DDF) Board: Josh Stransky, President; Michelle Resendez, Vice President; Barb Moritzky, Treasurer; Paula Emeson, Secretary; Renee Newton and Mandy Williams.
Founded to generate financial resources for DDRC and the people we serve, the Foundation provided years of thoughtful leadership, meaningful support, and steadfast belief in our mission. As DDF and DDRC unite to strengthen development and fundraising efforts, we celebrate and thank these dedicated volunteer board members, whose commitment has expanded opportunities and enhanced the quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Thank you for helping create a brighter future for the people and families we serve!
| Years Dedicated to Belonging: Mary Santangelo Receives the Charlie Allinson Award | | |
For 45 years, Mary Santangelo has helped create opportunities for joy, connection, and belonging. At our Annual Celebration, DDRC was proud to honor Mary with the Charlie Allinson Award in recognition of her dedication to the people we serve and DDRC's mission. The award is named for a longtime, respected state director of developmental disabilities.
Through her work in Therapeutic Recreation, Mary creates inclusive experiences that encourage participation and success. She ensures individuals receive the accommodations, encouragement, and support needed to fully engage in programs and experiences. Families trust her, colleagues seek her guidance, and countless individuals have benefited from her compassion, creativity, and commitment to inclusion.
A valued mentor and leader, Mary generously shares her expertise, strengthening both her department and DDRC. Her ability to transform ordinary activities into memorable celebrations has touched countless lives and created opportunities for community and connection.
Congratulations, Mary, and thank you for your remarkable service and unwavering commitment to the DDRC community.
| | Celebrating Three Peg Johnstone Above and Beyond Award Recipients | | At our Annual Celebration, DDRC was proud to present three Peg Johnstone Above and Beyond Awards to outstanding Direct Support Professionals. The award is named for Peg Johnstone, DDRC's first Executive Director, whose vision helped establish DDRC and many other organizations serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These awards honor her legacy of always going above and beyond for others. | |
From Direct Support Professional to Program Manager, Donna Fuentes has consistently championed inclusion, respect, and self-determination. She thoughtfully researches and creates accessible, meaningful opportunities that reflect individual interests and goals while ensuring those she supports have a voice in decisions that affect their lives. Whether advocating for fairness in the community or encouraging self-advocacy, Donna leads by example. Through her compassion, leadership, and person-centered approach, she empowers individuals to build confidence, independence, and a stronger voice in their own lives.
| |
Ryan Monroe began his DDRC career as a Direct Support Professional and now serves as a Program Manager. Through creative recreational, educational, and wellness opportunities, he encourages personal growth, independence, and community engagement. From boat rides and historical tours to pickleball, hiking, and visits with local first responders, Ryan creates experiences that are meaningful, fun and consistent with the interests of participants. He also leads Participant Council meetings, ensuring individuals have a platform to share their ideas and goals. His creativity, compassion, and leadership help people feel heard, valued, and empowered.
| |
As Lead Counselor at DDRC's Americana Apartments, Marshall Sears exemplifies person-centered support, leadership, and advocacy. He promotes choice, dignity, and independence while tailoring support to each person's unique goals and needs. Marshall has helped individuals gain greater control over their finances and strengthen important relationships with family and friends. As a respected mentor and team leader, he fosters a culture of compassion, accountability, and respect. His steady leadership and commitment to empowering others have made a lasting difference for both the people he supports and his colleagues.
| Congratulations to Donna, Ryan, and Marshall on this well-deserved recognition and for consistently going above and beyond for the people we serve. | | Making Your Vote Count and a Plain Language Guide Ballot Measures | | Voting is a cornerstone of our democracy and a right available to U.S. citizens age 18 and older who are properly registered. If you have recently changed your name or address, your registration must be updated. You may update your registration, register to vote, or vote in person at a designated Voter Service and Polling Center through Election Day. | | It is too late to return your ballot by mail. Instead, place it in an official ballot drop box by 7:00 p.m. on Election Day. Drop box locations are included with your mail ballot, and Jefferson County locations can also be found online. Don’t forget to sign your ballot envelope – it’s required. | | Please see www.govotecolorado.gov for official election information and refer to FAQs here. | In addition to voting on candidates, Colorado voters are asked to decide a number of ballot measures and initiatives, many of which can be lengthy or complex. While the state's "Blue Book" outlines the pros and cons of each measure, a Plain Language Voting Guide explains each initiative in clear, straightforward language and outlines what a "yes" or "no" vote means. Developed with support from disability advocacy organizations, including The Arc of Colorado and the Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition, it can be a valuable resource for voters. Please consider sharing this guide with others who may find it helpful. | | |
DDRC offices will be closed on Thursday, November 26, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. Thank you to everyone who is giving their time, talents, and resources to make our world a better place during this season of gratitude.
As we gather with family and friends, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the individuals we serve, their families, our staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners. Thank you for being part of the DDRC community. We wish you a warm, joyful, and safe Thanksgiving.
| | |
We’re committed to meeting the highest standards for charitable operations
and giving, and are proud of the ratings we've achieved!
| | | |
Set Your Email Preferences for Emails from DDRC
DDRC sends information via this “Constant Contact" email platform, including information about DDRC services and supports, announcements of emergencies, as well as invitations to events and donor support opportunities. Please do not unsubscribe from Constant Contact. If you prefer not to receive emails for newsletters, invitations or donor opportunities or other notices, please contact us to let us know. Thank you!
| | | | |
