Following local advocacy organizations on social media is a great way to stay informed of the latest updates on policy issues. We encourage you to follow Developmental Pathways and this handful of trusted Colorado advocacy organizations to help you monitor relevant issues and advocate for the I/DD community. Keep in mind, Colorado has so many great organizations that we will continue to spotlight in the coming months.
1. Alliance
303-832-1618
Alliance is dedicated to strengthening community services and supports for people with I/DD by collaboratively advancing innovative policies and practices. The organization specifically assists service providers in protecting and advancing services for people with I/DD.
2. The Arc of Colorado
303-864-9334
The Arc of Colorado believes we all hold value and have the right to choose how we want to live. The organization promotes and protects the human rights of people with I/DD. The Arc of Colorado also works to influence public policy to support full inclusion and participation of people with I/DD and increase public awareness throughout their lifetimes. There are local chapters of this organization, such as The Arc of Arapahoe and Douglas and The Arc of Aurora.
3. Atlantis Community
303-733-9324
atlantiscommunity.org/programs-services/advocacy/
Atlantis Community, Inc. seeks to advocate for all people with disabilities to be a meaningful part of an integrated community of their choice. The organization has multiple experienced and knowledgeable advocates on staff, who can help with applying, appealing, and/or re-certifying for programs. Their main goal is to advocate at the individual and systems levels to promote positive change for the disability community.
4. Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition
303-839-1775
Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition (CCDC) seeks to advocate for social justice for people with all types of disabilities. By working across the board with individuals, service providers, businesses, and government agencies, CCDC strives to ensure that people with a range of disabilities have equal rights and equal access. Cross-Disability means working together regardless of each person’s disabilities.
5. Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council
720-941-0176
Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council strives to advocate for change in systems by promoting meaningful person-centered participation, self-determination, and inclusion for all individuals with developmental disabilities.
6. Disability Law Colorado
303-722-0300
Disability Law Colorado protects and promotes the rights of people with disabilities and older people in Colorado through direct legal representation, advocacy, education, and legislative analysis. They have helped more than 25,000 people with disabilities through direct legal representation.
7. El Grupo Vida – Spanish Speaking Resource
303-335-9875
El Grupo Vida aims to empower people with disabilities and their families with information and training to help them become their best advocates. El Grupo Vida offers opportunities, education, and valuable social spaces for the whole family throughout during the year.
8. Parent to Parent
877-472-7201
Parent to Parent is made up of families who support each other on the journey of parenting sons and daughters with special health care needs or disabilities. They strive to make sure families are integral valued members of society with a voice in shaping their chosen communities.
9. PEAK Parent Center
719-531-9400
PEAK Parent Center believes that all children, including children with disabilities, can learn and participate in their neighborhood schools. PEAK teaches parents, students, educators, and professionals the skills they need to successfully educate students with all types of disabilities and abilities.
10. THRIVE Center – Spanish Speaking Resource
303-632-6840
303-923-3532 (Español)
The THRIVE Center exists to provide parents with information and training about disabilities, parent and children’s rights under the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and other relevant laws, and resources in the Denver Metro area.