The Arc of Adams County

The Arc of Adams County is an independent advocacy organization for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), including Down syndrome, autism and cerebral palsy, and their families and caregivers throughout Adams County. A chapter of The Arc of Colorado and The Arc of the United States, it has worked for more than six decades to advance the rights, dignity and inclusion of people with IDD at every stage of life.

Individual advocacy is the heart of the work. Non-attorney advocates help families with special education and the IEP process, disability services and benefits, community referrals, communication support and conflict resolution, and coach people to speak up for themselves. At the systems level, the team testifies at the Capitol, joins state stakeholder meetings and offers Beyond the Bills, a guide to how laws are made and how to contact legislators. Trainings such as Self-Advocacy, Autism 101, Conflict Resolution and Community, Victim Advocate and First Responder Training reach self-advocates, families, direct care staff and professionals.

Community comes through Speaking For Ourselves, a self-led group of adults with IDD, and Familias Guiando a Superhéroes con Amor, a Spanish-speaking support group for families. Annual events include the free Summer Celebration, the Disability Resource Fair and Community Honors, which recognizes people, programs and businesses making Adams County more inclusive.

To request support, fill out the Child & Family or Adult request form and an intake specialist will follow up, or call (303) 428-0310. Volunteers 18 and older help with events, programs and office projects.