DDRC's Nicole Dawson Wins Statewide EI Award

DDRC is thrilled to announce that Nicole Dawson, one of our exceptional Early Intervention Service Providers, has been selected as the 2026 Outstanding Early Intervention (EI) Service Provider—one of only two providers statewide to receive this prestigious honor by the Early Intervention Colorado Interagency Coordinating Council (CICC). The CICC received over 60 nominations for service coordinators and providers across the state. From this impressive pool, Nicole stood out, reflecting not only Nicole’s remarkable skill and dedication but also the high standard of excellence that defines DDRC’s Early Intervention team.

What makes Nicole’s selection even more meaningful is that seven different families nominated her—an extraordinary testament to the efficacy of her work and the connection and impact she builds with the children and families she serves.

The Outstanding EI Service Provider Award honors professionals who go above and beyond job expectations to ensure that services for children and families follow evidence-based practices. Awardees are selected based on key characteristics, all of which Nicole demonstrates daily:

Empowering families and supporting family self-advocacy
Creativity in finding resources and supports that meet each family’s needs
Leadership through mentoring and supporting others in the community
Excellence in communication, collaboration, and relationship-building

Nicole’s work reflects each of these qualities with focus and heart. Families describe her as someone who listens deeply, brings both expertise and encouragement to every visit, and communicates with warmth and clarity, respecting each family’s unique journey. Her dedication enriches the lives of the families she serves and exemplifies the excellence that sets DDRC apart.

We congratulate Nicole on this well-deserved award and are so proud to have her on our team! Nicole will be honored at a special presentation by EI Colorado CICC this June.

Where Interests Come Alive: DDRC's Therapeutic Recreation Program

DDRC offers a wide range of programs to support people’s needs—from employment services, behavioral health, technology support, homemaker assistance, to name only a few. But we also appreciate the importance of recreation, creativity, connection, and friendly competition. A full life has many dimensions, and this past April, like every month, our Therapeutic Recreation program gave participants the chance to explore theirs through a variety of activities.

One group joined hundreds of fans at Coors Field, cheering on the Colorado Rockies. Another tapped into their creative side during an “art and artistic crafts” session. A few participants simply wanted pure fun, so they headed to the Claw Den arcade to test their luck with the joysticks. And a dedicated group put weeks of practice to the test at a Special Olympics swim meet, proudly showing off their ribbons and the joy of achieving personal goals.

Our Therapeutic Recreation program is designed for adults 18 and older with intellectual and developmental disabilities who live in Jefferson County. To learn more or explore how to get involved, call 720-544-8150.

Rev Up For Our 34th Annual Golf Tournament

Spots are filling fast for our Route 66 Golf Tournament, and you won’t want to miss it! Join us on August 10th at the Hiwan Golf Club as we hit the fairway and cruise into a day inspired by the spirit of the open road. Whether you’re swinging the green, volunteering along the route, or stopping at the auction, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the ride. So, get ready to gas up your team, kick the tires, and drive into a day of fun, community, and impact before this road trip is fully booked!

Please reach out to us below if you know of businesses that would like to sponsor the tournament or donate to the auction.

Donor Appreciation Brunch - A Morning of Gratitude

On March 26th, we had the pleasure of hosting our annual Donor Appreciation Brunch to celebrate our incredible friends who give $250 or more each year. Set against the beautiful backdrop of a spring morning at Table Mountain Inn in Golden, the event was filled with warmth, connection, and heartfelt gratitude. With bright touches throughout the room and a cheerful spirit in the air, it was a lovely reminder that the collective generosity of our donors is what moves our mission forward.

We are deeply thankful for the dedication and support of our donors, whose commitment makes everything we do possible!

Triad Early Childhood Family Resource Fair

Triad Early Childhood Council is excited to host a Family Resource Fair, bringing together partner organizations that support families with young children—from birth through age five. It’s a great chance for families to discover helpful services, meet the people behind them, and learn how these organizations can make a difference.

DDRC will be there, offering informational materials and friendly staff available for conversation. Families can also enjoy simple activities designed for young children to do alongside their parent, caregiver, or provider staff—making the event both useful and fun.

Event Details:

🗓️ Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026

🕘 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

📍 Location: 11177 W. 8th Ave., Lakewood, CO 80215

CANOE's Splash & Play Event Saturday, June 6

Don’t miss CANOE’s “Splash & Play” event for children, teens, and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities—and their families—on Saturday, June 6 from 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. The fun takes place behind the Lakewood Police Department at 445 S Allison Pkwy, Lakewood, CO 80226, and DDRC will be there too. Splash & Play is organized by Community Aquatics n' Occupational Engagement (CANOE).

Enjoy resource tables, water slides, a slip ’n slide, a splash pool, an accessible splash pad, food for purchase, fire and police visits, music, and more. Be sure to stop by the DDRC table to explore how we can support you and your family in living your best life. CANOE asks families and individuals to please register for this event.

Connecting With The Community

During April, DDRC had the chance to take part in several resource fairs across the region, such as the Arc of Adams County fair, the Jefferson County Schools Transition Services “Spring Fling,” and the “Parents Engaging Parents Conference” held in partnership with Jefferson County Schools.

Our Early Intervention staff gave a special presentation to fifty-plus families at an event hosted by the Jefferson County Home Visitation Collaborative. The presentation focused on developmental milestones for infants and toddlers, and how to refer to DDRC when concerns arise.

We also attended the “Good News Jeffco” breakfast, where educators, nonprofits, volunteers, and community members shared the inspiring ways they’re making a positive impact in Jefferson County. It’s always an uplifting event and a nice opportunity for guests to learn more about DDRC.

If your organization is hosting a resource fair geared toward—or inclusive of—individuals with intellectual disabilities and delays, please reach out to so we can participate.

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