The Arc - Jefferson, Clear Creek & Gilpin Counties

The Arc - Jefferson, Clear Creek & Gilpin Counties promotes inclusion for people with developmental disabilities through advocacy, education, resources, community-building, policy change and family support. It began in 1960 when local parents met to raise their children at home instead of in institutions and to win them a place in public schools, and it received 501(c)(3) status in 1961. Today the Lakewood chapter serves individuals of all ages in Jefferson, Clear Creek and Gilpin Counties.

Individual and Family Advocacy is always free. Advocates provide information and referral, or active support such as speaking with professionals, reviewing documents and attending meetings, for children and families (ages 0 to 13), teens and young adults (14 to 34) and adults (35 and up). They help with education, health care, residential options, employment, legal concerns and systems navigation, from Health First Colorado and home and community based waivers to IEPs, guardianship alternatives, Social Security, future planning and Colorado ABLE accounts. Advocates are not attorneys, and requests are submitted through an online form with a response in two to three business days.

Self-advocates can join Coffee House, a monthly gathering at Panera Bread in Belmar on the third Thursday, People First of Jefferson County on the first Wednesday, Peer Power consulting events and LifeAbility Talks. The chapter also hosts an annual meeting, a summer picnic at Clement Park, the Summit of Hope and a holiday open house, and pushes for policy change through legislative and systems advocacy.

Call (303) 232-1338 or email info@arcjc.org; the office is by appointment.