Striking a Chord: Anne's Journey with DDRC

“I play piano,” Anne says with a smile, perfectly demonstrating the point that we should focus on people’s abilities first, not their challenges.

Anne has been receiving services from DDRC since 2003, and when asked what she loves most about DDRC, her answer is simple: “The people!”

Over the past 22 years, Anne has truly thrived with the support she’s received—living an empowered, self-determined, and fulfilling life.

She resides with her long-time host home provider and enjoys traveling, crocheting, spending time with loved ones, going to the theatre, reading magazines, trying new recipes, and, of course, playing piano.

DDRC is honored to be part of Anne’s journey and to celebrate her many interests and talents. If you or someone you know would like to learn more about becoming a host home provider and/or what a host home offers and to see the other residential service options we provide, visit our website or click the in-article links.

Interested in making a meaningful difference? Consider becoming a host home provider— an important and impactful job that furthers opportunities and independence every day. To learn more, contact Charlie.Brocious@ddrcco.com or call 720-544-8154 for a brief chat. Please review or complete our host home application to see if this rewarding opportunity might be right for you.

New Group Respite Opportunity!

Do you have a child receiving services through the Children’s Extensive Services (CES) Waiver and need respite? DDRC is excited to announce a new group respite option beginning in early 2026. We understand how essential respite is for families—giving caregivers time to recharge. 

This group respite will be available for children ages 3–17 on the CES Waiver and will take place at the Weiland Center, located off South Kipling and Hampden (Hwy 285) in Lakewood. The center features a sensory room, a large indoor gym, a full kitchen, multiple activity rooms, spacious outdoor areas, and ample parking. 

To discuss your child’s needs, express interest, or leave your contact information, please reach out to Eric Koch at Eric.Koch@ddrcco.com or 303-233-3363. Enrollment will be limited, so don’t wait!

The CES Waiver supports children under 18 with developmental disabilities living at home by providing additional services to meet extensive functional needs, including short-term respite in a variety of settings.

Cheers to Giving: Celebrate the Season with 6 and 40 Brewery & DDRC

On Saturday, Dec. 13, 6 and 40 Brewery and DDRC are teaming up for a day filled with festive fun and giving back.

Enjoy craft beer and hearty chili knowing that a portion of every sale of these smooth sips and delicious bites supports DDRC’s mission to help people with developmental disabilities live their best lives. Bring the kiddos to sit by Mrs. Claus as she reads from holiday classics to entertain the young ones and bring a smile to you, too!

🗓️Saturday, Dec. 13 from 2 pm-6 pm

✨Mrs. Claus readings at 2:00, 3:00 & 4:00

📍883 Parfet St, Unit J, Lakewood

Come sip, savor, and spread the joy!

Chili: $5/cup available while it lasts!

RSVP by Tuesday, December 11

DDRC's IT Director Earns National Recognition for Innovation and Impact

We’re excited to share that DDRC’s IT Director, Lambert Hubel, has been selected as a 2025 IT Transformation Award Winner by Info-Tech Research Group, a national and international industry leader. Professionals from across the U.S. and around the world were chosen for this honor—and we are incredibly proud that Lambert is among them and part of our team!

Lambert and his team earned this recognition for successfully implementing strategic IT initiatives that align with organizational goals and deliver measurable results. Their efforts have focused on strengthening security, improving effectiveness, and—importantly—boosting efficiencies with a strong emphasis on cost savings. At DDRC, we are committed to using all resources responsibly, whether donations or other funds, and the achievements of our IT team exemplify that commitment.

Give Where You Live – Colorado Gives Day!

DDRC is grateful to participate in Colorado Gives Day — a statewide celebration of generosity and community. You can give early at coloradogives.org/DDRC now through December 9 to help DDRC provide opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live their best lives.

Nonprofits taking part in this special fundraiser are also eligible to receive “incentive funds,” awarded in part based on the dollars they raise. Your contribution truly makes a difference. Thank you for helping create a lasting impact throughout the year — and thank you for giving where you live!

Jefferson County Schools and Partners Reconvene to Build Stronger Pathways for Transitions to Adulthood

The Sequencing of Service (SOS) Committee, led by Jefferson County Public Schools, reconvened in November. The committee’s purpose is to bring together community agencies to build a coordinated, comprehensive system that ensures every student and young adult with exceptional needs is connected to the services they need for a successful transition into adult life.

DDRC participated in the group’s efforts during 2023–24 and is pleased to rejoin the initiative as it gains new momentum. Dezirae Gurule, DDRC’s new Employment Services Manager, now serves as DDRC’s primary representative on the committee.

During the meeting, participants discussed the committee’s vision—that youth with exceptional needs should have the opportunity to build an individualized plan that supports their chosen goals and allows them to participate fully in their communities.

The committee plans to form several working subcommittees, potentially focusing on:

• Student Support and Skill Development
• Job Site Development and Expansion
• Communication and Outreach
• Data Collection and Outcome Measurement

Looking ahead, the group identified several priority areas:

• Increasing Case Management Agency involvement and encouraging earlier connections to waivers
• Strengthening collaboration among agencies
• Streamlining complex paperwork and clarifying timelines
• Improving seamless employment support for young adults

With renewed energy and participation—including DDRC’s active involvement—the SOS Committee is working to improve the pathway from school to adult life for Jefferson County youth with exceptional needs.

Double Your Impact This Season

Annual Appeal

Help open doors to opportunities, connections, and confidence!

Right now, your generosity can make twice the impact. Between now and December 31, every gift you make to DDRC will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the Mai Family Trust — up to $30,000!

Your contribution strengthens DDRC’s Therapeutic Recreation program, where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities build friendships, grow their confidence, and experience joyful moments — from cheering on teammates to celebrating personal milestones. Give today during our Annual Appeal and help us unlock the full match. Every moment of joy you spark will carry well beyond the season.

RTD Access-on-Demand: 2026 Re-enrollment Action Required

RTD’s Access-on-Demand—a subsidized curb-to-curb service using Uber, Lyft, zTrip, and Metro Taxi—will change on January 1, 2026. All customers with Access-a-Ride certification must re-enroll now to prevent service interruption.

How to Re-Enroll or Help Someone Re-Enroll:

• Visit the program page for details and reenrollment here.
• Scroll to "Re-enroll for Access On-Demand here"
• Enter name, Access-a-Ride ID, and birthdate of enrollee, then submit, then approve, then send the confirmation email to RTD as noted on the webpage.
• For paper forms, call 303-299-2530 or email accessondemand@rtd-denver.com.

Key Changes Effective 01/01/2026:

• Fare: $4.50 per trip
• Subsidy: Reduced from $25 to $20
• Service Hours: ADA paratransit hours; no service 1:30–3:30 a.m.
• Stops: Up to two stops allowed on eligible providers

What Stays the Same:

• 60 trips per month
• Trips must remain within the RTD service boundary
• Riders under 18 may use Metro Taxi or zTrip; Uber/Lyft requires booking under an adult’s profile.

Additionally, individuals are encouraged to consider applying for the LiVE Program, which provides a 50% discount on fares throughout the RTD service area. Apply for LiVE through Colorado Peak, the place to apply for and manage medical, food, cash, or other State of Colorado benefits, human services, and social programs online.

In the Community for DDRC

DDRC participated in the South Jeffco Business Alliance (SJBA) Meeting, where we had the opportunity to speak to the audience about our work. The Jefferson County fire management team also gave an informative talk and reminded everyone to sign up for emergency alerts.

Our Beau Jo’s Pizza Fundraiser night was a wonderful and delicious way to support DDRC. Thank you to all who joined us, and thank you to Beau Jo’s Arvada for hosting the event!

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