The Arc of Pueblo

The Arc of Pueblo is the local chapter of The Arc of Colorado and The Arc of the United States, advocating for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families in Pueblo County. It began in 1957 as a group of parents and community members working for the education, day programs and jobs their children were being denied, and it continues to support people of all ages, including those with autism, Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome and other developmental disabilities.

Guardianship is one of its signature programs, caring for adults who cannot make significant decisions on their own and protecting their rights as they move through adult life. Educational advocacy pairs families with advocates who help create individualized education plans and 504 plans. Public policy work represents the rights of people with disabilities, and resource support connects caregivers and families to local services. Areas of support include K-12 and postsecondary education, employment, housing and independent living, health care connections, voting and political participation, assistive technology, and social connections and recreation.

Each spring the Golden Tortilla fundraiser fills the Pueblo Convention Center with a plated dinner, raffle, live auction and a tortilla rolling contest among Celebrity Rollers. Families can request child and family advocacy or adult advocacy through the online request forms, or call (719) 545-5845. Joining The Arc, donating and attending events all help protect the rights and services people with I/DD depend on.