IN THIS ISSUE...
  • 60 Voices That Shine - #12
  • In My Shoes - Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month - Karaoke Night Mar 25!
  • 2021 IDD Awareness Day Events
  • Honor A Friend Or Family Member With A Gift To The Arc
  • Colorado COVID-19 Updates
  • Pandemic Studies And Surveys
  • Free Online Music Education From MusiQuest
Kenny Plooster - Voice #12

This week’s Voice That Shines, Kenny Plooster, is someone who everyone loves to be around. Fortunately for us, he participates in many of The Arc’s activities, and we all look forward to his upbeat and easy-going presence, brilliant smile, and contagious laugh.

Kenny is a member of People First, regularly attends Coffee House gatherings, comes to our LifeAbility Talks, and was even a facilitator for our Teen LifeAbility pilot series. One year ago, his shining voice was recorded for our Developmental Disability Awareness Month radio spot that aired on 101.5 and 107.1.

Another outstanding aspect of Kenny, is that he's a master at fixing bikes. Having worked in a bicycle shop, he has repaired a lot of bikes for others – it is work that he loves. He has even built one from scratch on his own!
 
If you get the chance to talk to Kenny, don’t pass it up because his is a voice that truly shines – and he may even have a bicycle maintenance tip or two for you.

To see all of the “60 Voices That Shine” featured thus far or for more information about our 60th Anniversary, CLICK HERE. We've updated our slideshow with all new photos!
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

As Developmental Disabilities (DD) Awareness Month marches on, we hope that you will join us for some special events coming up!

DD Awareness Month Coffee House
Thursday, March 18 from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
It's a time to socialize and have fun, and everyone is welcome! Please email [email protected] if you’d like to join us.

DON’T MISS Karaoke Night!
Thursday, March 25, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
All are welcome to join us for music and fun.
You can sign up to sing or just watch.
Please email [email protected] if you’d like to come.
CLICK HERE for more information on all of our DD Awareness Month activities.




Jennifer Pietranczyk would like you to know what it is like to be in her shoes. 

“Because of my disability, it takes longer for people to know who I really am. It’s frustrating. But, it’s so nice when someone takes the time to get to know me and they see who I truly am.”

2021 IDD Awareness Day Events
Virtual presentations and luncheon

Not only is it Developmental Disability Awareness month, March 25 is IDD Awareness Day at the Capitol! This year you can participate virtually in an IDD policy webinar and join in on a virtual luncheon. Speakers for this year’s event include Colorado House member and Majority Leader Daneya Esgar as well as self-advocate Julian Wang and parent Ashley Steinbach.
 
Here is the schedule for this year’s event:​
  • 10:00 AM: IDD Policy Webinar by your IDD Awareness Day Hosts: Alliance, The Arc of Colorado, and JFK Partners
  • 12:30 PM: IDD Awareness Day Speakers and Luncheon (bring your own lunch)
  • 12:45 PM: 2021 Direct Support Professional of the Year Award
 
You need to register by March 23. CLICK HERE for more information and to register.
Honor A Friend Or Family Member With A Gift To The Arc

Take part in Developmental Disabilities Awareness month by making a special gift to The Arc as a tribute to someone you love! In addition to bringing a smile to your honoree’s face, your gift will help ensure that The Arc continues to help individuals with I/DD, and their families, build better lives.
 
Make your gift online, CLICK HERE, or by mailing a check. Be sure to include your honoree’s name and mailing address, so we can send a notecard (omitting the amount of your donation) to let them know they’ve inspired your gift.
Colorado COVID-19 Updates
News From Governor Polis’s Community Engagement Team

While COVID numbers are down in the state and more and more citizens have been able to get vaccinated, the governor’s office wants us all to know that it is critical that we continue to take safety precautions including, wearing face masks, maintaining 6 feet distance between you and others, and the liberal use of handwashing and hand sanitizers.
 
The vaccination availability continues to broaden in Colorado. In fact, as of this Friday, March 19, the state enters its last limited eligibility group with the opening of group 1B.4. This group includes anyone 50 years or older, people ages 16 to 49 with one high-risk condition (as defined by the state), various frontline essential worker groups including restaurant workers, transportation workers, direct care providers, and many higher education employees.
 
Of course, previously eligible groups including, 1A, 1B.1, 1B.2, and 1B.3 are still eligible to get a vaccine if they have not done so yet. CLICK HERE to see detailed eligibility information. By mid-April the state anticipates that there will be no more restrictions and access to the COVID vaccine will open up to everyone, given they are over the age of 16.
 
As of March 11, the state saw its lowest 7-day average positivity since September 20, 2020. Let’s keep being patient, doing the right things, and win the battle over COVID!
Use for eUpdate articles about studies and or surveys
Pandemic Studies and Surveys

There are two COVID-related studies/surveys available to the I/DD community that might be of interest to you.
 
Impact of the Pandemic on Behavioral Health of People with I/DD
This study is looking at how the COVID crisis has affected individuals with I/DD with regards to morbidity, mental health, and decreased overall wellness. Care providers and care organizations are encouraged to participate in this study. The survey will take about 10 minutes and will be available through April. CLICK HERE to access the study survey. If you would like more information you can email [email protected].
 
COVID-19 and Vaccine Survey for Adults with Disabilities
The second available survey is from The American Association on Health and Disability concerning the impact of COVID on persons with disabilities and the issues around vaccine hesitancy and access. They are hoping to better understand the reasons adults with disabilities will or will not take the vaccine. The survey will take about 8 minutes and is available until March 26, CLICK HERE. If you would like more information, email [email protected]
Free Online Music Education From MusiQuest

The ancient Greek philosopher, Plato, said, “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.”

Now, 100 Colorado families with children with special needs have the opportunity to bring more music into their lives with a free account with MusiQuest. MusiQuest is a creative, online music education program started right here in Denver. This program provides guided, hands-on lessons that teach children how to make their own songs and understand how music works.
 
Thanks to a philanthropic donation from Take Note Colorado, 100 free accounts are available to learners with disabilities. The program can run on any computer, laptop, or iPad. To view a 1-minute video on the program, CLICK HERE. If you are interested in receiving a free year of access to MusiQuest, CLICK HERE to complete an application. If you have any questions, email [email protected]
The Arc IS OPEN - OUR OFFICE IS CLOSED (UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)

In an effort to protect our clients, staff, board, volunteers and community members, The Arc – Jefferson, Clear Creek & Gilpin Counties physical offices will be closed effective immediately (Friday, March 13) until further notice due to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns. Please note that services will continue to be provided, as staff will be working remotely and communicating via phone, text and email. All in-person meetings, events and scheduled trainings will be canceled or postponed. When our physical offices reopen, our website and social media platforms will provide such information. CLICK HERE for more information.