IDD Awareness Day 2026 at the Colorado State Capitol

March 3 is Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Awareness Day, hosted by Alliance Colorado in partnership with The Arc of Colorado and JFK Partners, to celebrate progress and promote inclusion for people with IDD.

Morning events at the Colorado State Capitol will include the Pledge of Alliance led by a person with IDD and an IDD Awareness Day Tribute. During the sold-out luncheon, awards will be presented for Direct Support Professional of the Year, Case Manager of the Year, and Advocate of the Year.

Celebrating DDRC's Outstanding Direct Support Professionals: Rick Lovato and Ryan Monroe

DDRC proudly recognizes two outstanding team members whose dedication has transformed the lives of the people they support.

Rick Lovato (pictured on the right) of Therapeutic Recreation is a finalist for the 2026 IDD Awareness Day Direct Support Professional (DSP) of the Year Award. For more than 35 years, Rick has supported individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), shaping lives and advancing the community’s understanding of inclusion. Through inclusive athletic programs he brings together people with and without disabilities, ensuring every participant experiences success and pride. His person-centered approach builds confidence, independence, and meaningful connections. A natural mentor, Rick inspires colleagues, partners with families, and sees potential in everyone he supports. DDRC is honored by his compassion, initiative, and decades of commitment.

Ryan Monroe (pictured on the left) of Adult Vocational Services was also nominated for DSP of the Year. In just 1.5 years, he has made a remarkable impact through creative, community-based experiences—from boat outings at Cherry Creek Lake and visits to Cherokee Castle and Ranch to pickleball and scenic hikes that promote health and wellness. Recently promoted to Program Manager, Ryan is a trusted leader and a favorite among peers and participants.

The 2026 DSP of the Year will be announced on March 3 during the IDD Awareness Day luncheon (watch it virtually). DDRC congratulates Rick and Ryan for the meaningful difference they make every day.

A Lifetime of Loyalty to Our Athletes

The world-wide Winter Olympics wrapped up in February, but did you know DDRC’s Therapeutic Recreation also participates in skiing? Special DDRC friends have helped make that easier.

In 1973, Greg began teaching in Jeffco schools, working with students with developmental disabilities. When several students wanted to try snow skiing, Greg simply said yes — launching a decades-long connection to the Colorado Special Olympics State Ski Program, where DDRC’s Therapeutic Recreation athletes compete today.

What stands out most to Greg isn’t the races, but the athletes. “I remember how dedicated they were,” Greg says. “They were happy and easy to work with.” Days on the slopes turned shared effort into lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.

Though Greg no longer lives in Colorado, his bond with the program remains strong. “I made a lot of friends over the years,” he shares. “I still feel a deep sense of loyalty to the athletes.”

That loyalty recently led him to help cover lodging costs for DDRC athletes attending the Special Olympics Winter Games at Copper Mountain, February 27–March 1. Knowing how costly travel can be — and how meaningful the experience is — stepping in felt natural.

“I think it’s a small part that I play,” Greg says humbly, “but it’s a big part in athletes’ experience.”

Lodging is more than a place to sleep — it’s rest before competition, team bonding, and the full joy of the Winter Games.

Greg’s generosity is strengthened by a broader community. The Colorado Volunteer Team remains committed to athlete participation, and partners like RK Mechanical of Denver give each year to ensure athletes can compete, connect, and thrive.

Greg may see his role as small, but for athletes, it makes all the difference. Each of us can play a part — by volunteering, donating, or showing support. When a community shows up, our athletes rise! Learn more about our Therapeutic Recreation program below.

Jeffco CMA Hosts Family Support Services Gathering on March 14

Families connected to the Family Support Services Program (FSSP) are invited to a community event designed to inform, connect, and support participants and their loved ones.

The gathering will be held Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds, Green Mountain Conference Rooms A&B, 15200 W. 6th Ave., Golden, CO 80401.

Current and former FSSP members, their families, and community partners are encouraged to attend. Guests can meet case managers, connect with other families navigating similar journeys, and build stronger support networks. Organizers will share details about FSSP services and guide families through the enrollment process to expand awareness and access to family-centered supports.

Families are reminded that the deadline to submit FSSP requests is May 15, 2026. Additional program information is available on the organization’s website. Lunch will be provided. This event is organized by the Jefferson County Case Management Agency.

Spring Into Awareness: An Evening of Inclusion & Community

On Thursday, March 19, from 5:00–7:00 p.m., DDRC will co-host our annual Spring Into Awareness celebration with Fairfield Inn & Suites Denver West and the West Metro Chamber. Launched by DDRC several years ago, this special event honors Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Awareness Month, celebrated each March.

We look forward to welcoming local businesses, organizations, and community members for an evening of connection and conversation about the importance of inclusion. Together, we’ll highlight how Fairfield Inn & Suites Denver West, the West Metro Chamber, DDRC, and others are building a stronger, more inclusive community.

Safety First – Every Mile of the Journey

At DDRC, safety isn’t just a policy — it’s a promise. And recently, that promise was put to the test.

Therapeutic Recreation (TR) team members Jack and Jordan were transporting participants to Copper Mountain for a DDRC Ski Training trip when the van experienced a flat tire on I-70. In a moment that could have quickly become overwhelming, their focus never wavered: keep everyone safe.

Jack and Jordan worked seamlessly to move the van to a safe location and immediately reassured participants, keeping them calm and confident that everything would be okay. At the same time, they proactively communicated with families and providers to let them know there would be a delay — and, most importantly, that everyone was safe.

Without hesitation, Dave, with DDRC's fleet maintenance, dropped what he was doing and headed up I-70 to provide backup support, ensuring all participants returned safely to the Administration Building.

What could have been a stressful and potentially dangerous situation became a powerful example of teamwork in action. Through quick thinking, steady leadership, and clear communication, this team turned a roadside emergency into a safe and successful outcome. Their professionalism under pressure reminds us that at DDRC, safety always comes first — and teamwork makes all the difference.

With Gratitude for Jean Armour's Board Service

After more than 20 years of dedicated service, Jean Armour has stepped down from the DDRC Board of Directors. Since 2002, she has brought insight, compassion, and leadership to numerous roles, including Board Secretary, Chair of the Community Services and EI/Resource Coordination Committees, liaison to the Human Rights Committee, and as a member of the Governance, Finance/HR, and Executive Committees. 

Jean’s thoughtful guidance, deep understanding of DDRC’s work, and countless volunteer hours strengthened our mission, supported families across the community, and helped guide DDRC through growth and change. We are deeply grateful for her lasting contributions and proud to recognize her service. 

Open House March 26 for DPS Transitions Students

Are you a Denver Public Schools student (or family member) participating in the special education Transitions Program? If so, mark your calendar for an open house for Transitions students on Thursday, March 26, from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at North High School, 2960 Speer Blvd, Denver, CO 80211.  

DDRC will be there. Be sure to visit our DDRC table and staff to see the many programs and services we offer to help you lead your best life as you or your loved one ventures into the adult world!  

Need Respite? We're Here to Help

A big thank-you to all the families who joined us at our recent respite Open House! It was wonderful connecting and showing off our new Friday Night Respite Program, held from 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. at our Weiland Center (near Kipling & Hampden).

Missed the Open House? No worries! We still have a few openings for families with children ages 4–17 on the CES Waiver, looking for a well-deserved break. To learn more or request an application, email Eric.Koch@ddrcco.com.

Connecting with the Community

In February, DDRC participated in several outreach events to share how we support individuals and families in living their best lives. We joined the Lakewood Rise PossAbilities Expo, hosted by the City’s Recreation Department, and served as a featured speaker at the West Metro Chamber Women in Business meeting.

If your group is hosting a resource fair or offers an opportunity to highlight DDRC’s impact, please contact Michele.Majeune@ddrcco.com to connect.

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