Engaging the Younger Generation of Self-advocates

Julian Wang, a self-advocate in Larimer County, has developed a survey to research why youth and young adults with intellectual disabilities are not joining or becoming involved with the self-advocacy movement. This project is funded by a national Fellowship opportunity through Self-Advocates Becoming Empowered (SABE) and Self-Advocacy Resource and Technical Assistance Center (SARTAC) and is hosted by The Arc of Larimer County. 

For the purpose of this project, self-advocacy is learning how to speak up for yourself and making your own decisions about your own life. Self-advocacy is learning how to get information so that you can understand things that are of interest to you and finding out who will support you on your journey. It is also knowing your rights, responsibilities, and having good problem solving skills.

The purpose of this online survey will be to look at why young people with intellectual disabilities are not becoming involved with the self advocacy movement. Please consider taking the survey to help us reach a new generation of self-advocates.

Board of Directors is Seeking Nominees!

Are you interested in serving on The Arc’s Board of Directors for the upcoming term (July 1, 2020-June 30, 2022)? The experience is both rewarding and enjoyable. 

Service on The Arc’s Board of Directors requires a deep commitment to The Arc’s mission, as well as time and energy necessary for full participation. 

In order to qualify to be a member of the Board, a candidate must:
  • be or become a member* of The Arc in good standing and;
  • be a resident of Jefferson, Clear Creek, or Gilpin County or have a family member who is eligible to receive services in these counties (up to 20% of the Board may be exempt from the residency requirement).

(*Membership requires an annual donation to The Arc. For questions regarding membership, including your current status, please contact Jennifer Holan at (303) 232-1338 or [email protected]). 

We are particularly interested in adding the following to our Board:
Knowledge in, connections to, or experience with: 
  • Health care
  • Government/public sector work
  • Local media organizations or communications/public relations
  • Philanthropic organizations or individuals
  • Individuals who can bring the perspectives of young adults and minority groups are especially encouraged to apply.

While we have identified these as priorities, all interested individuals who have a passion for The Arc’s mission are encouraged to submit a nomination form. 

Previous non-profit or corporate board experience is desirable, but not required. The time commitment for a member of the Board of Directors is approximately 7-10 hours per month depending on committee work. Terms are two years.

Please click here to learn more and apply! 
A New Way to Support The Arc During Tax Season

If you get a state income tax refund in 2020, you will have a new opportunity to donate some or all of to support The Arc through RE-FUND[CO]. The process is easy as 1, 2, 3:
 
1. Decide how much of your refund to donate.
 
2. If you’re preparing your taxes yourself, when you get to the line on your state income tax return marked “Donate to a Colorado Nonprofit Fund”
Enter our name,  THE ARC - JEFFERSON, CLEAR CREEK & GILPIN COUNTIES
Then our registration number:  20023003706
 
Or, just give this info to your tax preparer when you share your tax documents.
 
3. Smile knowing you’ve helped a cause that matters to you!
 
For more information, visit  RefundWhatMatters.org . There’s a handy list of frequently asked questions  here .
FREE Low Sensory Mornings at the History Colorado Center

The History Colorado Center has designated four Saturdays throughout 2020 to offer a Low Sensory visit to the museum. The museum will be closed to the general public, attendance limited, and sounds in exhibits turned down. 

Low Sensory Morning dates include: April 11th, June 13th, and September 12th.

To make a reservation, contact the Reservations Coordinator with questions and to RSVP at [email protected] or 303-866-2394

The Museum is located at 1200 Broadway, Denver, CO, 80203. You can explore the museum's
website here .
Tools for easing Hearing Test for children with I/DD developed at CU-Boulder

Audiologists at CU-Boulder have developed tools to make hearing tests easier for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Researchers have developed videos and pictures that explain the hearing test process to young individuals so they understand what they will experience during the test. And, researchers also note, these tools will help many children with I/DD and developmental delays.

The diagnosis process for Autism Spectrum Disorder is often initiated due to a child's varying abilities of communications. Doctors typically start with a hearing test to understanding the child's ability to hear. Having tools to make this critical first step easier for young individuals will allow for more comfort and understanding during the diagnosis process.

To learn more about these innovations, visit CU's website here .