Celebrating Dedication, Advocacy, and Spirit at DDRC's Annual Celebration

The DDRC community gathered for a night of gratitude and inspiration at this year’s Annual Celebration, which began with heartfelt remarks from Susan Hartley, Chair of the DDRC Board of Directors, and reflections from Rob DeHerrera, Executive Director. The highlight of the evening was the awards to individuals and organizations who have helped uplift people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and DDRC.

The Spirit Award goes to a person with disabilities who contributes to their communities, exhibits perseverance, and strives for personal achievements. Casey Shover embodies these traits and more! He is an exceptional Special Olympics athlete. Although he can take the basketball the full length of the court, he exhibits humility and focuses on teamwork and cheering his teammates. He also volunteers to coach and has attended various DDRC functions to show support. His positivity, sportsmanship, and desire to make a difference inspire everyone around him.

The Partner of the Year Award recognized Rufino Sanchez and the Credit Union of Denver, whose steadfast partnership and advocacy have strengthened DDRC’s outreach and community connections. For the past four years, the Credit Union has sponsored cornerstone DDRC events such as our golf tournament and 60th anniversary celebration. Rufino himself has been the welcoming face of that partnership—inviting DDRC to host outreach tables in the Credit Union’s lobby and championing our mission at community and Chamber events. His leadership and support embody the true meaning of partnership.

The Friend Award went to Ballmer Peak Distillery, where owners Austin Adamson and Eric Strom blend creativity with care for community, including support for DDRC’s events and awareness campaigns. They have eagerly stepped up for our annual “Spring into Awareness” events for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month—serving complimentary tasters and crafting a special “Spring Punch” for the occasion. They’ve also donated gift baskets of their wares for events. Their quick willingness to get involved truly embodies the spirit of friendship.

Pat Jurann received the Special Recognition Award for her exceptional advocacy as a parent and partner. Whether sharing her family’s story at the Legislative BBQ or collaborating with DDRC staff to help her adult children navigate workplace challenges, Pat leads with empathy, balance, and unwavering belief in self-determination—showing how families and providers can work hand in hand for meaningful lives.

Three outstanding DDRC staff received Peg Johnstone Above and Beyond Awards, each modeling the compassion and excellence at the heart of DDRC’s mission: Mick Hill-Hunt, Employment Specialist, for their unwavering advocacy and ethical leadership in employment services; Madison Neal, Direct Support Professional, for her innovation and empathy in designing meaningful opportunities for growth and inclusion, and Carlye Jensen, Residential Program Manager, for transforming residential care through person-centered practices and creativity; who shared that “This award means a great deal to me as a recognition of my passion and reflection of the people and purpose that inspire it!” Together, these awardees embody the compassion and excellence at the heart of DDRC’s mission.

The Charlie Allinson Award celebrated Lee Sylvester, whose leadership built DDRC’s benefits planning program from the ground up—helping individuals navigate complex systems to achieve fulfilling careers. Recently certified through Cornell University’s Youth Credentialing program, Lee is shaping statewide practices and empowering youth with disabilities to plan for their futures with confidence.

Each honoree reminds us that when dedication meets heart, our entire community grows stronger, more inclusive, and full of possibility.

Pizza with a Purpose: Beau Jo's Benefit for DDRC – Nov. 13

Mark your calendars for a pizza night with purpose! Join DDRC at Beau Jo’s Colorado Style Pizza in Arvada on Wednesday, November 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and help make a difference — one slice at a time.



When you dine in, order takeout, or purchase a gift card, just tell your server you’re there for the DDRC fundraiser, and 20% of your total will go directly toward supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our community. (Online orders not included.)

It’s an easy and delicious way to give back! Bring your friends and share a meal while helping brighten lives, all over a mountain of Beau Jo’s goodness.

📍 Location: Beau Jo’s Pizza, 7525 W 53rd Ave, Arvada, CO 80002

🗓️ Date: Wednesday, November 13

⏰ Time: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Explore Your Future with DDRC's Business Exploration Club – Starting January 2026

DDRC is excited to once again offer the Business Exploration Club through our Employment Services, beginning in January 2026. This engaging program is a creative way to explore the world of work and see if you’d like to take the next steps. The club meets as a series of sessions and this service falls under ”group job development.”



Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Take informational tours across a variety of industries.

• Hear from guest speakers who will share insights into their careers, companies, and the realities of their fields.

• Join job readiness workshops focused on building resumes, developing workplace skills, and understanding meaningful job matches.

The Business Exploration Club is your chance to learn, grow, and discover your interests — all with the guidance of DDRC employment specialists and the camaraderie of others on a similar journey.

For more information, club dates, or to sign up, email Sean.Webb@ddrcco.com or Mick.Hill-Hunt@ddrcco.com.

SNAP Benefits Updates

HR 1 outlines changes in government benefits and eligibility for benefits, including SNAP benefits (nutrition/food assistance). The aspects of those changes are outlined in the summary shared by Jefferson County, and can be viewed here. (Actualizaciones sobre la elegibilidad para SNAP y Medicaid)

Additionally, the Federal shutdown has resulted in a hold on SNAP benefit payments, creating impacts for 22,000 Jeffco households, according to Jefferson County. The Federal shutdown is also affecting households in other Colorado Counties and across the nation.

Readers are encouraged to visit their county government websites, county Human Service offices, and the Colorado Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) website for current information about government benefits, eligibility requirements, implementation of the requirements, and the impact of the shutdown on benefits.

Your Gift Transforms Lives This Season

As November arrives and December unfolds, the spirit of generosity fills the air — a time to give back, connect, and make a difference in our community. At DDRC, we’re embracing this season of giving with opportunities for you to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities live fuller, more meaningful lives.

Give Where You Live – Colorado Gives Day!

DDRC is proud to participate in Colorado Gives Day — a statewide movement celebrating generosity and community! You can give early at coloradogives.org/DDRC now through December 9 to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities live their best lives. Your support makes a lasting impact — thank you for giving where you live!

Double Your Impact This Season with the Mai Family Trust

Right now, your kindness can go twice as far. When you give to DDRC between now and December 31, your gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the Mai Family Trust — up to $30,000!

Your support fuels DDRC’s Therapeutic Recreation program, where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities build friendships, confidence, and unforgettable moments of joy — from cheering on teammates to celebrating new achievements.

Watch our video below to learn more about the programs your donation benefits!

Give today and help us reach the full match — because every moment of joy you create is one that lasts far beyond the season.

Case Management Week and Cooperation with Jeffco CMA

Case Managers and Early Intervention Service Coordinators play an essential role in connecting individuals and families with vital resources and supports. In recognition of their impact, Governor Jared Polis proclaimed October 12–18, 2025, as Case Management Week.

At DDRC, we deeply value the importance of case management and are gratified to have a collaborative partnership with the Jefferson County Case Management Agency (Jeffco CMA), which now provides case management for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. DDRC continues to provide Early Intervention Service Coordination.

On October 29, DDRC participated in the Jeffco CMA’s “Tips and Treats” Children’s Resource Fair at Jeffco Stadium, where we shared information about our Pediatric Behavioral Health services, Children’s Extensive Support (CES) Waiver, Unmet Needs funding, and more. We also had a wonderful time engaging with children, teens, and families. A big thank-you to Jeffco CMA, Apryl Webb, for organizing such a fun and valuable event for our community!

Connecting Through Community Events

October was a busy and rewarding month for DDRC as we joined several regional resource fairs to share information about our programs and services, including the A&I Case Management sponsored fair in Lafayette (Oct. 14), Jeffco Public Schools Transitions Fair (Oct. 22), Laradon “Harvesting Resources” Fair (Oct. 25), and the Jeffco Business and Workforce Development Disability Hiring Fair (Oct. 31).

We value every opportunity to connect with our community and highlight how DDRC supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. If your organization is hosting a community event or resource fair, we’d love to participate—please contact us to let us know!

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