DDRC May Community News: Celebrating Early Intervention Services and Spring Community Connections
May is a month full of milestones at DDRC. From a statewide award honoring one of our own to community events bringing people together across Jefferson County and beyond, there is a lot to celebrate. In this month’s community news, we’re spotlighting a remarkable recognition in early intervention services, spring highlights from our therapeutic recreation program, an upcoming golf tournament, and community events you won’t want to miss.
Nicole Dawson Recognized for Excellence in Early Intervention Services
DDRC is proud to announce that Nicole Dawson, one of our exceptional Early Intervention Service Providers, has been selected as the 2026 Outstanding Early Intervention Service Provider, one of only two providers statewide to receive this honor from the Early Intervention Colorado Interagency Coordinating Council (CICC). The CICC received over 60 nominations from across Colorado, making Nicole’s selection a truly outstanding achievement.
What makes this recognition even more meaningful is that it reflects not just the work Nicole does, but the lives she has changed. Her selection is a testament to the high standard of excellence that defines DDRC’s early intervention services team as a whole.
What the Outstanding EI Service Provider Award Recognizes
The Outstanding EI Service Provider Award honors professionals who go above and beyond job expectations to ensure that services for children and families follow evidence-based practices. Awardees are recognized for:
- Empowering families and supporting family self-advocacy
- Creativity in finding resources and supports that meet each family’s unique needs
- Leadership through mentoring and supporting others in the community
- Excellence in communication, collaboration, and relationship-building
Nicole demonstrates each of these qualities every day. Families describe her as someone who listens deeply, brings both expertise and encouragement to every visit, and communicates with warmth and clarity while respecting each family’s unique journey.
Seven Families, One Extraordinary Nominee
Perhaps the most powerful part of Nicole’s nomination story is this: seven different families independently nominated her for this award. That kind of widespread, heartfelt recognition speaks volumes about the connection and impact she builds with every child and family she serves. Nicole will be honored at a special presentation by EI Colorado CICC this June. Congratulations, Nicole, we are so proud to have you on our team!
Where Interests Come Alive: DDRC’s Therapeutic Recreation Program
At DDRC, we know that a full life has many dimensions. Beyond our core support services, we believe deeply in the value of recreation, creativity, connection, and friendly competition. Our therapeutic recreation program is designed for adults 18 and older with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in Jefferson County, and every month it opens new doors for participants to explore their interests and thrive in the community.
April Highlights from the Therapeutic Recreation Program
April was a great month for our therapeutic recreation program participants. One group joined hundreds of fans at Coors Field to cheer on the Colorado Rockies. Another tapped into their creative side during an art and artistic crafts session. A few participants headed to the Claw Den arcade for some pure, joystick-fueled fun. And a dedicated group of athletes put weeks of practice to the test at a Special Olympics swim meet, proudly taking home ribbons and the satisfaction of achieving personal goals.
To learn more about our therapeutic recreation program or explore how to get involved, call 720-544-8150.
Rev Up for DDRC’s 34th Annual Golf Tournament
Spots are filling fast for our 2026 Golf Tournament and you won’t want to miss it! Join us on August 10th at Hiwan Golf Club for a Route 66-themed day inspired by the spirit of the open road. Whether you’re swinging on the green, volunteering, or browsing the auction, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the ride and make an impact.
If you know of businesses that would like to sponsor the tournament or donate to the auction, please contact DDRC to get connected.
Donor Appreciation Brunch: A Morning of Gratitude
On March 26th, DDRC hosted our annual Donor Appreciation Brunch to celebrate friends who give $250 or more each year. Set against the backdrop of a spring morning at Table Mountain Inn in Golden, the event was filled with warmth, connection, and heartfelt gratitude. The collective generosity of our donors is what moves our mission forward every single day, and we are deeply thankful for each and every one of them.
Out in the Community: Spring Events and Resource Fairs
April was a busy month for DDRC out in the community. We participated in several resource fairs across the region, including the Arc of Adams County fair, the Jefferson County Schools Transition Services Spring Fling, and the Parents Engaging Parents Conference held in partnership with Jefferson County Schools.
Our Early Intervention staff also delivered a special presentation to more than 50 families at an event hosted by the Jefferson County Home Visitation Collaborative, focusing on developmental milestones for infants and toddlers and how to connect with DDRC when concerns arise. We also attended the Good News Jeffco breakfast, where educators, nonprofits, volunteers, and community members shared the inspiring ways they are making a difference in Jefferson County.
Looking ahead, there are two upcoming events where you can connect with DDRC and find community resources:
Triad Early Childhood Family Resource Fair
The Triad Early Childhood Council is hosting a Family Resource Fair for families with young children from birth through age five. DDRC will be on hand with informational materials, friendly staff, and simple activities for young children to enjoy alongside their parent, caregiver, or provider.
- Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
- Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
- Location: 11177 W. 8th Ave., Lakewood, CO 80215
CANOE’s Splash & Play Event
Don’t miss Community Aquatics n’ Occupational Engagement (CANOE)‘s Splash & Play event for children, teens, and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. DDRC will have a table at the event. Stop by to learn how we can support you and your family in living your best life.
- Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Location: Behind the Lakewood Police Department, 445 S Allison Pkwy, Lakewood, CO 80226
- Activities: Water slides, slip ‘n slide, splash pool, accessible splash pad, food for purchase, fire and police visits, music, and more
Families and individuals are asked to register in advance for this event. Register for CANOE’s Splash & Play 2026.
If your organization is hosting a resource fair geared toward or inclusive of individuals with intellectual disabilities and delays, please contact DDRC so we can participate.
Want to Stay Connected with DDRC? Contact Us Today
Every month brings new reasons to celebrate the people, programs, and partnerships that make inclusion possible across our community. Whether you are interested in early intervention services, recreation opportunities, upcoming events, or ways to support our mission, DDRC is here to help. We hope to see you out in the community this spring!
Contact DDRC today to learn more about how we can support you or your family.