DDRC October Community News
October is a month of recognition at DDRC, and this month’s newsletter is full of people worth recognizing. We’re celebrating the Early Intervention professionals who support Jefferson County’s youngest children and their families, and sharing the story of a longtime DDRC participant who found a new way to keep moving.
You’ll also find election preparation resources, a recap of our Annual Legislative BBQ, and several ways to connect with DDRC this fall.
New Wheels, New Opportunities: SDI Funding Helps Jerry Stay Active and Connected
Jerry has always looked for ways to stay engaged and independent. He receives support from DDRC Employment Services, has worked at Fox Hollow Golf Club and Pizza Hut, competes in Special Olympics sports, and was once named Male Athlete of the Year. This year he played in the DDRC Route 66 Golf Tournament alongside his Therapeutic Recreation teammates.
When foot and knee challenges made cycling harder, and after a serious bike crash, riding a traditional bicycle no longer felt safe. Jerry missed the exercise and the freedom it gave him.
That changed through DDRC’s Self-Determination Initiative (SDI), which provides funding for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in Jefferson County. After learning about e-bikes in a DDRC computer lab class, Jerry realized an electric three-wheel bike could give back the mobility he had lost. SDI funding helped him purchase the bike, along with a helmet.
Today he rides through his neighborhood, waves to neighbors, and is planning trips to a local home bakery to pick up treats for his sisters, Linda and Kathleen. “It helps me be stronger and have more fun,” Jerry says. “It makes me feel special. I have wanted an e-bike for a long time.”
SDI funding helps people access the resources, equipment, experiences, and opportunities that support greater independence and quality of life. To learn more about eligibility, contact Julia Panucza at Julia.Panucza@ddrcco.com or visit the SDI Application Form.
Celebrating Our Early Intervention Teams
October brings two opportunities to recognize the professionals who support infants, toddlers, and their families during the most critical years of development.
Driving Outcomes: Case Management Recognition Week, October 11 through 17
National Case Management Recognition Week celebrates the professionals who help individuals and families navigate services and achieve meaningful outcomes. This year’s theme, “Driving Outcomes,” highlights how case managers improve quality of care through expertise, evidence-based practices, and a person-centered approach.
At DDRC, that impact shows up every day in our Early Intervention Service Coordination team. Each month, DDRC processes more than 145 referrals and coordinates about 90 evaluations for children under age three. Once a child is found eligible DDRC’s Intake Coordinator, a dedicated Service Coordinator partners with the family to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan built around the child’s needs and the family’s priorities, then works alongside families and providers to coordinate services, monitor progress, and support transitions.
Behind every referral, evaluation, service plan, and developmental milestone is a professional helping a child reach their full potential. We proudly celebrate our Early Intervention Intake and Ongoing Service Coordinators this week.
Celebrating Early Intervention Physical Therapists
October is also Physical Therapy Month, and we recognize the vital role Early Intervention Physical Therapists play in helping infants and toddlers build the skills they need to explore their world and take part in everyday routines.
EI Physical Therapists support children with a wide range of developmental needs by promoting movement, strength, balance, coordination, and physical development. Through coaching and collaboration, they partner with families to identify meaningful goals and weave strategies into everyday activities like playtime, mealtime, bath time, and community outings.
Their work goes beyond motor development. They help families understand their child’s unique strengths, adapt environments and routines, recommend equipment when appropriate, and build family confidence. This Physical Therapy Month, we thank them for the lasting difference they make.
Also in This Month’s Newsletter
With the November 3 General Election approaching, the newsletter includes a reminder to check your voter registration, since election mail and ballots cannot be forwarded by the post office, along with key dates from the Jefferson County Elections Department. You’ll also find a recap of our Annual Legislative BBQ, where more than 25 elected officials and candidates joined community members on September 10 for conversation about the issues facing Jefferson County.
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and this year’s theme is “Celebrating Value and Talent.” Read about how DDRC’s Employment Services team supports more than 130 people in building skills, exploring career paths, and finding meaningful work. There’s also a look back at how we celebrated our Direct Support Professionals during DSP Week, including a thank-you video from Board Chair Susan Hartley.
Two Dates Coming Up
Resource Fair, Tuesday, October 13. A&I Avenues is hosting a provider fair with more than 50 providers and community agencies from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at 1665 Coal Creek Drive in Lafayette. Free to attend, no RSVP needed, and DDRC will have a table.
Beau Jo’s Arvada Fundraiser, Thursday, November 12. Enjoy lunch, dinner, or takeout at Beau Jo’s Arvada, and Beau Jo’s will donate 20 percent of your pre-tax purchase to DDRC. Bring the flyer from the newsletter and let your server know you’re there for DDRC.
Read the Full Newsletter
There’s much more in the full edition, including voter registration links, the Beau Jo’s flyer, and the resource fair details. We hope you’ll take a few minutes to read it.
Want to connect with DDRC? Contact us to reach our team, or see what’s coming up on our events calendar.