Classes began for 16 school-age children with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a Jefferson County greenhouse and church basement. The program was led by two Jefferson County Public School teachers, as other public schools were not an option.

The state of Colorado passed HB121, establishing the Community Center Board (CCB) system to create a statewide network that would provide community training and employment for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Parents formally incorporated a nonprofit CCB that later became known as DDRC. Dr. Robert Weiland was elected Board President. The center officially opened with 60 enrollees.

Two temporary buildings were installed behind George Hook School, used for Home Economics and Pre-Vocational Training. Additionally, a home on Morrison Road was purchased, renovated, and opened to house eight residents.

Led by Board President Dick Markley, parents on the JCCC Board of Directors successfully petitioned the Jefferson County School District to issue a capital construction bond for two permanent buildings.

Robert Weiland School and Margaret Walters School were constructed.

JCCC’s Case Management Department separated from Direct Service programs, and Medicaid funding was introduced to pay for services.

President George H. W. Bush recognized JCCC as the first organization in Colorado to receive the “National Point of Light” award. Additionally, the “25th Hour Fund” was launched to assist individuals and families with emergency, unmet, or immediate needs.

The first of many JCCC benefit golf tournaments was held.

The organization adopted its current name: Developmental Disabilities Resource Center (DDRC).

DDRC purchased the building at 11177 W 8^th Avenue and celebrated with an open house the following year.

DDRC and partners launched the first “Meet the Candidates Legislative BBQ” in Maple Grove Park. Twenty candidates and officials participated alongside families and staff. Additionally, DDRC’s iconic red antique firetruck became a fixture in community parades and festivals throughout the 2000s, bringing awareness to DDRC’s mission.

DDRC led a successful voter referendum campaign, “Campaign to Help,” to raise property taxes by a half mill, securing vital funding for services. That same year, DDRC hosted its first “Walk and Roll-a-Thon” benefit event and debuted theatrical productions with a performance of “Cinderella,” followed by plays like “The Wizard of Oz”, “Peter Pan”, and many others in the years that followed.

The Bruno Vocational Center and Gray Street Facility were closed, with operations relocated to the Walters and Weiland Centers.

Beverly Winters, MSW, became Executive Director, succeeding Art Hogling, PhD, who retired after 38 years of service. That year, DDRC’s Unified Softball Team, the “Land Cruisers,” won gold at the Special Olympics USA Games in New Jersey.

DDRC’s Adult Vocational Services (AVS) program earned an excellent rating from the prestigious Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitative Facilities (CARF).

DDRC organized its first “Navigating the World of IDD” forum to educate constituents about available services and how to access them.

DDRC joined efforts to “End the Wait” for individuals needing comprehensive services, including residential living opportunities. In addition, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Denver West Federal Center opened on the old Bruno site, unveiling a plaque dedicated to DDRC and establishing a partnership. DDRC also co-hosted the “Rocking the Runway” fashion show, celebrating inclusion with individuals with disabilities and community models.

The global COVID-19 pandemic brought significant challenges, including closures, isolation, and strict health protocols. DDRC adapted through telehealth services, remote work, staff reassignments, and other measures.

Rob DeHerrera, CPA, CGMA, became DDRC’s Executive Director upon Beverly Winters’ retirement. DDRC partnered with The Arc, STRIDE Community Health, and Jefferson County Public Health to host a COVID-19 vaccine clinic for individuals with IDD, a population especially vulnerable to the virus.

DDRC Board President David Pemberton stepped down after 18 years of service, transitioning leadership to Susan Hartley while continuing to serve on the board.

DDRC began Phase 3 of the statewide Case Management redesign on March 1st, working to comply with federal and state laws, with completion set for July 1, 2024. This year also saw two DDRC staff members honored at the statewide IDD Awareness Day celebration: Mamadou Ouattara, awarded 2024 Direct Support Professional of the Year and Michelle Loose, nominated for Case Manager of the Year, . These achievements underscore the dedication of DDRC’s staff and their collective impact.

DDRC rebranded to a more modern and inclusive design with a new sleek, informative, and easy-to-navigate website.