The Arc of Southwest Colorado

The Arc of Southwest Colorado supports children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families, across the Four Corners region. Its office in Durango serves La Plata, Archuleta, Montezuma, Dolores and San Juan Counties, including Bayfield, Pagosa Springs, Cortez, Dove Creek and Silverton.

Families who need help with school can connect with an education advocate to understand early intervention and special education rights, request evaluations, prepare for IEP and 504 Plan meetings, and work through concerns with the district. Adult advocates help people with disabilities and their families understand government-funded systems of care, including supported decision-making, transitions and resolving problems with services. After an intake form is submitted, an advocate follows up within 48 business hours.

The PIE (Parent Information Exchange) Support Group gives parents and caregivers a place to share experiences, with fall sessions in Durango and Cortez. Defying Gravity is a self-advocacy group where adults build friendships, practice speaking up and give back through service, including a fall walkathon series on Durango river trails. Each June, Camp Peak Energy brings a week of day camp at River Bend Ranch to people ages 6 to 21 with disabilities, along with their siblings.

The Arc also hosts workshops, Game Day socials and a community events calendar, and publishes a Guidebook for Navigating Disability. Start with the intake form or call 970-903-2957.