The Arc Arapahoe, Douglas & Elbert Counties

The Arc Arapahoe, Douglas & Elbert Counties uses advocacy and education to include all children and adults with disabilities in their communities. The chapter opened its doors in 1955 and supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families in Arapahoe, Douglas and Elbert Counties, from its office in Centennial.

Adult advocates help people with IDD and their families understand their rights and responsibilities in government-funded systems of care, including housing, employment, Health First Colorado (Medicaid), SSI and SSDI, and they share information on guardianship, Power of Attorney and respite. Child advocates focus on a free appropriate public education, helping parents with IEPs, Behavior Support Plans and transition plans, and on access to long-term care services.

Workshops include Step Up Into Life After High School for parents and young adults and Building Blocks for parents and caregivers of school-aged children. The Arc ADventures in Fun is a social group where self-advocates enjoy yoga, cooking competitions, open mic nights and dancing. A public policy library follows bills in the Colorado Legislature, and a resource library covers topics from assistive technology to autism. Se habla español.

Anyone can join The Arc, volunteer at events, resource fairs and administrative tasks, serve on the board, sign up for the Weekly Update or donate online.