Case Management Redesign refers to several initiatives that will help make accessing long-term services and supports easier by changing case management agencies to serve all HCBS waivers so people have one place to go, making sure there is the right number of case management agencies in Colorado, and increasing the quality of case management services.
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- Town Hall Video Link Re Case Management Transition
- Town Halls May 2 and 14 about CM Transition
- HCPF Statement on Case Management Challenges March 2024
- Case Management Agency Director Named
- Case Management Redesign Update OCT 2023
- Case Management Redesign Update Sept 1 2023
- Case Management Redesign Update July 17 2023
- Case Management Redesign Update June 2023
- Case Management Redesign UPDATE May 2023
- Case Management Redesign
- Foundation Board Member Commitment Plays in Many Acts
- Masons Make a Difference
Town Hall Video Link Re Case Management TransitionPublished: May 28, 2024
See the Town Halls Video
Did you miss attending or listening to the May Town Halls on case management transitions? Now you can see the video of the presentation by clicking here. In this video, Rob DeHerrera, Executive Director, DDRC and Tim Young, Division Director, Case Management Agency (Jefferson and Clear Creek) give an overview of the transition.Brief Background: DDRC
and the new Case Management Agency serving Jefferson and Clear Creek Counties
held Town Halls to inform people of the transition of case management services for
people currently receiving case management and resource coordination from DDRC
for all Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities HCBS Waivers, State
Supported Living Services and Family Support Services. The transition
will be effective as of July 1, 2024.
Get ongoing information from the CMA monthly newsletters by clicking here:
Questions: Do you have questions about the impending case
management transition? See the CMA website list of Frequently Asked Questions” and answers here. As
additional questions arise the FAQ page will be updated.
Town Halls May 2 and 14 about CM TransitionPublished: April 18, 2024
Case Management Transition Town Halls May 2 and May 14, 2024
Attention families, guardians and individuals in Jefferson and Clear Creek Counties currently receiving case management and resource coordination from DDRC for all Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities HCBS Waivers, State Supported Living Services and Family Support Services. Mark your calendars to join a town hall discussion on the future of case management for Home and Community-Based Services hosted by the new Case Management Agency, Jefferson County Human Services, along with DDRC. Please come prepared to share questions or concerns you may have, as your feedback is important to us and we want to make sure we address your needs.
Ø Registration is required for the virtual
(Zoom/webinar) option. The link will be sent to you.
Ø Registration is not required for in-person
but is encouraged to assist us in planning.
Ø If you plan to
attend in-person but later decide to do the virtual Zoom option, you will need
to register to get the link.
Ø If you need to request any special accommodations, please do so in advance, and request that in your registration, or contact us.
Tuesday, May 14 from 4:30
to 5:30 p.m. at DDRC, 11177 W. 8th Ave, Lakewood 80215
REGISTER: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RQDRTTK
NOTE: For individuals and families in Summit and Gilpin Counties, DDRC will be providing additional information about case management transitions later this spring.
HCPF Statement on Case Management Challenges March 2024Published: March 8, 2024
The Department of Health
Care Policy & Financing (HCPF) is the state agency that oversees Health
First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid program). HCPF acknowledges the current
challenges that may be impacting both you, as a member receiving Long-Term
Services and Supports (LTSS), as well as the community of providers that
support you. We are concerned about reported delays in accessing case
management and direct services and are acting with urgency to address them.
Case Management Agencies are
a critical partner to HCPF. They are the lynchpin for supporting people with
disabilities to navigate, enroll, and manage services to live and thrive in
their communities. Unfortunately, there are three different challenges
impacting all of our valued case management agency partners at the same time
and their related services to you. These include: increased county partner
workloads due to both a record number of Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program (SNAP) requests as well as the impact of the end of the
federal public health emergency; the implementation of a new IT system used by
all case management agencies; and a case management program redesign. In the
coming months, the related innovations and modernizations will create a better
system for members, providers and case management agencies. But the impact of
all three occurring at once - which was not intended - is causing short term
challenges to member program eligibility, provider reimbursement, case
management agency processing and member service response time.
Case management agencies are
not to blame for these challenges. The dedication and resilience demonstrated
by case management agencies, counties and providers in navigating these complex
changes has been commendable. We are very appreciative of their shared efforts to
serve our members and to solve transition-related issues with us during this
time.
We want to assure you that HCPF is aware of and addressing these
issues on multiple levels and with a sense of urgency, in support of our
members, providers, counties and case management agencies. We remain dedicated
to collaboration with case management agencies, providers and members to
navigate the current challenges to ensure you and your families are supported.
Sincerely,
Bonnie Silva
Director
Office of Community Living
Department of Health Care Policy and
Financing
ESPANOL
Estimados miembros de servicio y
apoyo a largo plazo:
El
Departamento de Políticas y Financiamiento de Atención Médica (Department of
Health Care Policy & Financing, HCPF) es la agencia estatal que supervisa
Health First Colorado (programa Medicaid de Colorado). HCPF reconoce los
desafíos actuales que pueden estar afectando tanto a usted, como miembro que
recibe servicios y apoyo a largo plazo (Long-Term Services and Supports, LTSS),
así como a la comunidad de proveedores que lo apoyan. Nos preocupan los
retrasos que se han informado respecto al acceso a la gestión de casos y los
servicios directos, y estamos actuando con urgencia para solucionarlos.
Las
agencias de gestión de casos son socios fundamentales para HCPF. Son el eje
central para ayudar a las personas con discapacidades a navegar, inscribirse y
gestionar los servicios para vivir y desarrollarse en sus comunidades.
Desafortunadamente, existen tres desafíos diferentes que afectan al mismo
tiempo a todos nuestros valiosos socios de agencias de gestión de casos y a los
servicios que le prestan. Estos incluyen: el aumento de la carga de trabajo de
los socios del condado debido tanto a un número récord de solicitudes de
Medicaid y del Programa de Asistencia Nutricional Suplementaria (Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP), como al impacto del fin de la emergencia
federal de salud pública, la aplicación de un nuevo sistema de TI utilizado por
todas las agencias de gestión de casos, y un rediseño del programa de gestión
de casos. En los próximos meses, las innovaciones y modernizaciones
correspondientes crearán un mejor sistema para los miembros, los proveedores y
las agencias de gestión de casos. Sin embargo, el hecho de que las tres cosas
ocurran a la vez, algo que no estaba previsto, está causando desafíos a corto
plazo en la elegibilidad de los miembros para los programas, el reembolso a los
proveedores, el procesamiento de las agencias de gestión de casos y el tiempo
de respuesta de los servicios a los miembros.
Las
agencias de gestión de casos no tienen la culpa de estos desafíos. Ha sido
admirable la dedicación y la resiliencia demostradas por las agencias de
gestión de casos, los condados y los proveedores a la hora de afrontar estos
cambios complejos. Estamos muy agradecidos por sus esfuerzos compartidos para
servir a nuestros miembros y resolver con nosotros los problemas relacionados
con la transición durante este tiempo.
Queremos asegurarle que el HCPF es
consciente de estos problemas y los aborda en múltiples niveles y con carácter
de urgencia, en apoyo de nuestros miembros, proveedores, condados y agencias de
gestión de casos. Seguimos dedicados a colaborar con las agencias de gestión de
casos, los proveedores y los miembros para superar los desafíos actuales y
garantizar que usted y sus familias reciban apoyo.
Atentamente,
Bonnie
Silva
Directora
Oficina
de Vida Comunitaria
Departamento
de Políticas y Financiamiento de Atención Médica
Case Management Agency Director NamedPublished: February 20, 2024
Case Management Agency
Director Named
Welcome Tim Young
DDRC looks forward to working with Tim and JCHS to help ensure a smooth transition for individuals, families and staff during this change. Read more about the new CMS on the JCHS website Get
background information and updates on Case Management Redesign from Health Care Policy and Financing |
Case Management Redesign Update OCT 2023Published: October 19, 2023
CASE MANAGEMENT FOR LONG TERM SERVICES
& SUPPORTS IS CHANGING IN COLORADO
The
Current Landscape
Important changes are coming to
case management for Home and Community Based Services (HCBS), the Family
Support Services Program, State Supported Living Service (SLS) and Quality Assurance offered by
Health First Colorado, Colorado’s Medicaid program through the Department of
Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF).
The changes specify that case
management for all HCBS waivers, the Family Support Services Program, State SLS,
and Quality Assurance functions will soon be provided by a designated Case
Management Agency (CMA) in each defined service area of the state.
Jefferson County Human Services
(JCHS) is currently the Single-Entry Point (SEP) for Jefferson County and
provides case management for various HCBS waivers, not including waiver
services for intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). JCHS has been
designated as the new CMA for Jefferson and Clear Creek County.
Developmental Disability
Resource Center (DDRC) is the Community Center Board (CCB) for Jefferson, Clear
Creek, Gilpin and Summit Counties and provides case management for various HCBS
waivers and State funded services for those with Intellectual and Developmental
Disabilities (IDD).
The change will transition
case management from DDRC to JCHS, as the new CMA for all IDD HCBS waivers,
Family Support Services Program, State SLS and Quality Assurance in Jefferson
and Clear Creek Counties. Similarly, this change will also transition case
management from DDRC to Garfield County for all IDD HCBS waivers, Family
Support Services Program, State SLS, and Quality Assurance in Summit County.
Lastly, these same services currently provided by DDRC in Gilpin County will
transition to Adult Care Management, Inc.
The transitions will occur
between March and July 2024. You do not
need to take any action. DDRC will work with the new CMA to transition your
case management services.
|
County |
New CMA |
|
Jefferson
and Clear Creek Counties |
Jefferson County Human Services |
|
Gilpin County |
Adult Care Management, Inc. (ACMI) |
|
Summit County |
Garfield County |
Why is
this changing?
Since 2014, the Colorado Department of
Health Care Policy and Financing has worked to come into compliance with a
federal law that requires case management be provided by an agency that is
separate from the agency that provides direct service care, called conflict
free case management (CFCM). This separation will preclude any possible
conflict of interest of an agency that provided both case management and direct
service.
The state of Colorado passed legislation
to come into compliance with the federal law by implementing case management redesign (CMRD). This means that DDRC cannot
provide both case management and direct services. The state is required to come
into compliance with CMRD by July 2024.
DDRC &
Jefferson County Working Together
Jefferson County and DDRC have
been working together on CMRD for nearly 3 years with the mutual goal of
minimizing any impact these changes may have on the individuals and families we
serve, our staff and our community. Individuals and families who receive their
case management and resource coordination from DDRC for all IDD HCBS Waivers,
State Supported Living Services (SLS) and Family Support Services will be the
most impacted by this change. Most individuals and families who currently
receive case management from Jefferson County Human Services should experience
little change.
Jefferson County is working
with DDRC leadership to ensure a smooth transition and anticipates most DDRC
staff impacted by this change will be hired as part of the new Jeffco CMA.
DDRC has provided both case
management and Home and Community Based Services for nearly 60 years. As a
result of these changes DDRC will no longer be providing case management
services but will continue to provide their direct services (HCBS Waiver Services,
Early Intervention, Behavioral Health, Recreation, etc.). DDRC is here to
continue to serve you without interruption through the year and into the
future. We will continue to communicate regularly throughout this process.
Members, (people receiving Health
First Colorado Medicaid waiver benefits), currently receiving case management,
FSSP, State SLS or quality assurance through DDRC will have the option to
continue through July 2024 Members currently served by JCHS will not be
impacted.
If you have questions about
your assigned case management agency, please reach out to DDRC or your DDRC
case Manager.
Upcoming Communications &
Updates
You will be receiving updates from DDRC and
JCHS. DDRC and JCHS are committed to doing all that we can to
help make a smooth transition for the
individuals and families we serve and DDRC staff impacted by these changes.
Please watch for updates
through email, websites and postal notices. We also anticipate holding open
houses and town halls so that the community can help play a part in a smooth
transition of services.
Case Management Redesign Update Sept 1 2023Published: September 8, 2023
Case Management Redesign and
New Case Management Agencies
Update
Case Management Redesign (CMRD), a required statewide initiative, will create one place to go in each catchment area for case management services for all Health First Colorado Members accessing Long Term Support and Services (LTSS), including all Medicaid waivers. These places, called Case Management Agencies (CMA), aim to simplify access so individuals and families will be able to more easily find the right programs and services that work for them.
These changes will impact anyone who receives case management services from DDRC, including long term supports and services for all Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, including Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities waivers, State Supported Living Services, Family Support Services. and Quality Assurance.
As a Community Centered Board, DDRC’s case management, quality assurance, and family support services will transition between March – July,1 2024 to these following new CMAs:
o CMA for Jefferson and Clear Creek Counties: Jefferson County Dept. of Human Services
o CMA for Gilpin County: Adult Care Management, Inc. (ACMI)
o CMA for Summit County: Garfield County
HCPF, the current agencies (i.e., DDRC) and new CMAs will be sending additional information to members impacted by these changes. Members will remain with their current agencies until the functions transition to the new CMA.
Our commitment:
DDRC is committed to doing all that we can to work closely with the three new CMA agencies that will be taking over case management functions from DDRC to help make a smooth transition for the individuals and families we serve and our DDRC staff impacted by these changes.
Case Management Redesign Update July 17 2023Published: July 17, 2023
CASE MANAGEMENT FOR LONG TERM SERVICES & SUPPORTS IS CHANGING IN COLORADO
The Current Landscape
Health First Colorado is Colorado’s Medicaid
program. Health First Colorado offers a benefit
called home and community-based services (HCBS) and the case management for these services.
Individuals and families who receive or wish to receive these important services
should know about important changes that are coming to
the case management system.
These HCBS services are typically called Medicaid Waivers. In the current system in Colorado, entities called Single Entry Points (SEPs) - of which there are 26 that cover the state - provide case management for the following Medicaid waivers: Brain Injury waiver; Community Mental Health Supports waiver; Elderly, Blind and Disabled waiver; Spinal Cord Injury waiver; Children’s Home and Community Services waiver; and Children with Life Limiting Illness waiver. Jefferson County currently serves as the Single Entry Point (SEP) agency for Jefferson County.
There are 20 entities
across the state called Community
Centered Boards (CCBs).
Generally, CCBs provide both
case management and direct services for another set of Medicaid waivers:
Developmental Disabilities waiver;
Supported Living Services
waiver; Children’s Extensive Support waiver; and Children’s Habilitation Residential Program waiver. Developmental Disabilities Resource
Center (DDRC) currently serves as the CCB for Jefferson, Clear
Creek, Gilpin and Summit Counties.
The information contained within this communication is specific to the changes in Jefferson and Clear Creek counties. Additional information related to the changes in Summit and Gilpin counties is forthcoming.
What is Changing and Why?
In 2014, the federal
agency that oversees
Medicaid issued a rule that addressed what was recognized as a potential conflict: that
an entity providing case management services for any of these waivers that also
provided services, had a conflict. This has come to be known as ‘conflict-free
case management.’
To come into compliance with the requirement to be conflict
free for the delivery of case
management and waiver services to families, the state of Colorado passed legislation to implement
case management redesign (CMRD).
The legislation provides that, no later than July 2024,
a newly created
single Case Management Agency (CMA) must be selected for each state
catchment area so that individuals in need of long-
term supports and services can access case management services
in one place without a conflict,
essentially combining the case management of all waivers
from Single Entry
Points and Community Centered Boards into one Case Management Agency.
This means that agencies such as DDRC cannot provide both case management services and direct services for Health First Colorado (Medicaid) waiver members. DDRC has provided both case management and Home and Community Based Services for nearly 60 years. DDRC will no longer be providing case management services but will continue to provide their direct services (HCBS Waiver Services, Early Intervention, Behavioral Health, Recreation, etc.). Jefferson County’s SEP only provides case management so historically has experienced no conflict.
DDRC & Jefferson County
Working Together
Jefferson County Human Services (JCHS) and DDRC began working together about 2 ½ years ago, knowing that both entities, the individuals and
families we serve, our staff and community would be impacted by this change.
Working together, the leadership of both organizations analyzed all options, and ultimately decided
that Jefferson County
should apply, in partnership with DDRC, to be
the new CMA for Jefferson and Clear Creek
counties. After a lengthy process
and many hours
of planning, Jefferson County was notified by the State Department of
Health Care Policy & Financing (the Medicaid state agency) on June 12 of a
Notice of Intent to Award (NOIA) the contract to Jefferson County.
The Jefferson County
Board of Commissioners formally approved JCHS to accept the NOIA on July 11.
Who This Impacts
Individuals and families who receive their case management and resource coordination from DDRC for all Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities HCBS Waivers, State Supported Living Services and Family Support Services will be the most impacted
by this change.
Case management for these
services will move to Jefferson County. Additionally,
DDRC will be transferring the functions of Quality Assurance and Family
Support.
Most individuals and families currently served by Jefferson County’s Single Entry Point should experience little change.
Jefferson
County intends to work with the DDRC staff impacted, holding hiring events and
other activities. The new CMA anticipates most DDRC staff impacted by this change will be hired as part of the new Jeffco CMA.
When Will These Changes Take Place?
The state
is required to come into compliance with Conflict Free Case Management by July 1, 2024,
so all new CMAs must also be functioning by July 1, 2024. The state has identified a 3-tiered timing
of transition for the 20 catchment areas; Jefferson County and DDRC are
requesting transition of all case management functions in the third tier which
would give the County and DDRC the most time with an effective date of July 1,
2024.
What's Next?
Jefferson County Human Services
anticipates retaining its existing 38 employees of the Single Entry
Point (who will become part of the CMA) and will seek to hire as many as 75 additional employees to support the case management agency
and provide case management services
to persons currently being served by DDRC. The new CMA is a state contract with the county,
no county dollars
will be expended; the contract
is funded from state and federal dollars.
JCHS and DDRC leadership will continue working closely and in partnership throughout the process. Please watch for updates through email, websites and postal notices. We also anticipate holding open houses and town halls so that the community can help play a part in a smooth transition of services.
Case Management Redesign Update June 2023Published: June 5, 2023
|
CMRD Update June 2023
Recently, the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) announced that the results of the request for proposal (RFP) selection will be moved back from late May to mid-June 2023. Jefferson County Human Services, with support from DDRC, submitted a RFP to HCPF to become the CMA for Jefferson and Clear Creek Counties, the new catchment area. The transition to these new CMAs will include DDRC’s Resource Coordination, Quality Assurance and Family Support functions. HCPF has defined three separate CMA transition phases, however DDRC has not yet been advised as to which phase we will be assigned. The three phases are: Phase 1:
beginning August 2023 and concluding by November 2023; Phase 2:
beginning November 2023 and concluding by March 2024; Phase 3:
beginning March 2024 and concluding by July 2024. Colorado is required to be in compliance with CMRD by July 1, 2024.
IMPORTANT: Individuals and families in our services impacted by these changes should watch for a dedicated communication with updates on these changes from DDRC as additional information becomes available in late June/early July. DDRC remains committed to the continuity of services and to minimizing disruption during this transition. To stay up to date on CMRD and related matters see: Case Management Redesign | Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing |
Case Management Redesign UPDATE May 2023Published: May 2, 2023
Jefferson County Human Services (JCHS), with support from DDRC, submitted a request for proposal (RFP) to become the CMA for Jefferson and Clear Creek Counties, the new catchment area. The results of the RFP will be released by HCPF in late May or early June of this year. The transition of case management functions is planned to occur between November 2023 and June 2024, and includes DDRC’s Resource Coordination, Quality Assurance and Family Support functions. The State is required to be in compliance with CMRD by July 1, 2024.
Health First Colorado members accessing long term supports and services, including Medicaid waivers, will receive case management services in the future from the CMA in their catchment area. To stay up to date on HCPF rule changes that may impact these services , as well as other aspects of the future of case management, please visit HCPF's CMRD website and follow CMRD Rules Revision, Case Management Redesign | Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing.
Please watch for updates and communications through this newsletter, emails to individuals / families, and updates on our website www.ddrcco.com. including information on the transition as soon as that is available. DDRC remains committed to the continuity of services for individuals and families and minimizing any potential disruption for individuals and families, staff and our community.
There are still many unanswered questions, and we are working diligently to shape and resolve future outcomes and will provide updates as soon as available.
MORE INFORMATION
HCPF has developed an FAQ anticipating questions that people may have about CMRD and how it may impact them.
Find their FAQ through this link:
Case Management Redesign | Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing.
Case Management Redesign Published: March 31, 2023
Case Management Redesign Update March 31, 2023
The Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) continues to undertake a major required statewide initiative related to Case Management Redesign (CMRD).
Jefferson County Human Services (JCHS), with support from DDRC, submitted a Request for Proposal at the end of February to become the Case Management Agency (CMA) for Jefferson and Clear Creek counties. The results of the RFP are scheduled to be released at the end of May or beginning of June 2023.
If JCHS is successfully awarded the RFP to become the new CMA, they would be responsible for Resource Coordination (Case Management), Quality Assurance and the Family Support functions as part of the CMA at the county. The transition of these functions is planned to occur between November 2023 and June 2024. DDRC and JCHS have been partnering and working on local solutions for several months.
There are still many unanswered questions, and we are working diligently to shape and resolve future outcomes. DDRC is grateful to be alongside such a fine partner as Jefferson County Human Services throughout this process.
Click here for information on CMRD on the HCPF website, and stay tuned for additional information on CMRD to be posted in the ensuing months.
Foundation Board Member Commitment Plays in Many ActsPublished: July 1, 2022
“I’ve been on the Developmental Disabilities Foundation (DDF) board for 10 years, and I really like being part of it and seeing what’s going on with DDRC,” said Barb Moritzky.
“I love going to the tournament, meeting people, and volunteering on the course. You can also win some cool things from the auction and feel gratified knowing it’s for a good cause. One year I won a beautiful quilt from the Quilt Museum,” she says, "and I have donated African fabric bags to the auction from a Ugandan ministries group I have worked with for years.” The auction is virtual so anyone can register to bid. Biding opens August 1 and will close on August 15.
Barb’s connection to the intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) world stems from her personal experience of having a sister with disabilities, who, after growing up in Fort Collins, has been served by DDRC for many years.
While at Colorado State University, Barb got involved in a program that paired college students with people with disabilities. Armed with a degree in Social Work, Barb worked for an IDD focused organization in Nebraska teaching independent living skills, becoming the area manager, and helping move people from state institutions and nursing homes into neighborhood group homes. Later, she was the Rehabilitation Manager at Laradon Hall.
In 1984 Barb and her husband joined the Peace Corps, went to Tunisia, and worked in a center for people with IDD. Inclusion of people with IDD was not accepted, but Barb gained success in using sports for integration, as soccer was universally loved. “I am especially grateful to have been invited to advise on the starting of the first Tunisian Special Olympics. When the first games were held, even though they didn’t have fancy new uniforms, the pride everyone had, and the joy in playing, still brings tears to my eyes.”
Currently, Barb is the Development Director for the Lakewood Symphony Orchestra. She loves music, singing and theatre, and along with her sister Julie, is involved with the DDRC Players, a theatre troupe that is now the Special Needs Acting Program (SNAP) of Colorado Acts. "I love how the theatre allows people to see themselves in a new light through the characters they play," she says.
“Services and supports like those offered through DDRC have made an important difference for my sister Julie, helping her to become more independent and social,” Barb says.
Years back, Julie worked at the Bruno Center in group employment, and now participates in opportunities offered through DDRC's Weiland Center. Julie shines in Weiland’s Zoom sessions playing Hangman, using her Dynovox, discovering she is a really good player, getting answers correct and delighting herself and others. She expresses her artistry there, too.
Barb says that knowing that her sister is engaged in things she wants to do gives Barb the important opportunity to work in varied areas.
When Barb reflects on the passage of time, she says, “We are definitely light years ahead of where we once were with disability inclusion, even though we have a long way to go.” DDF is lucky to have Barb’s experience and passion, along with the other DD Foundation members, to help move us forward in that journey!
Learn more about the August 15, 2022 DDF/DDCR Golf Tournament, "Groovy on the Green"
Masons Make a DifferencePublished: May 5, 2022
When the same group steps forward many times to give their time and physical effort to help make things better, you know their values go deeper than words. We are blessed and grateful that the Masons’ friendship includes DDRC and helping to improve the lives of people with developmental disabilities.
In late April, Masons from the Marquis de Lafayette Lodge #41 and Denver Lodge #5 spent two entire Saturdays cleaning and sprucing up the yard of the DDRC “Lamar” residential group home in Lakewood. The property is home to about 8 people served by DDRC’s Quality Living Options program. Given that April is volunteer month, their timing was perfect.
The Masons efforts were transformational! Wielding
rakes, trimmers, clippers and paint brushes they got to work. They gave tall
deck pillars a fresh coat of protective paint. They cut and cleared away debris
from many overgrown and dead bushes. They raked up remnants of winter leaves
and fallen twigs to reveal emerging spring grass, and they trimmed-up tree
limbs to provide a space underneath to enjoy a spot of shade. Moving all that
debris was no easy task as the yard is on a steep slope, so it was a lot of
climbing up and down the hill. The final stack of branches stood more than 7
feet high and was at least twice as wide.
Steve Jimenez, DDRC’s Facilities Director was there to help and provide tools and direction for the project. Upon its completion he said, “This was incredible and such a huge help!” “It was our pleasure,” the Masons responded, demonstrating their gracious and humble character.
Our sincere thanks to Mason Grant Sanders, who spearheaded the effort, along with his fellow Masons Bill Busby, Bryan Kemper, Lawrence Laurent, Johann Ortner, and Justin Washnieksi, all of the Marquis de Lafayette Lodge #41, Conner Gould of Denver Lodge #5, and Jon Vande Riet, general volunteer and Grant's son-in law.
Spring into Awareness - IDD Awareness Month wrap up Published: April 4, 2022
Fairfield-Denver West /Federal Center, the West Metro Chamber and DDRC, were pleased to partner to host Spring into Awareness, a gathering to wrap up IDD Awareness Month in March and to celebrate diversity and inclusion for people of all abilities, including through employment.
A brief video of Fairfield, their team, and their commitment to diversity in employment, along with DDRC, showcased inclusive employment. An art show by artists served by DDRC beautifully illustrated themes of self-advocacy and the aspirations of the artists. The three host organizations spoke about their work to create a vibrant community. Local Jeffco businesses Flights Wine Café, Wahoo’s, Ballmer Peak Distillery, Crimson Cat Studios, and Shaklee (Susan Firmin) generously supported the event with donations of drink, food and door prizes. It was a fun and meaningful evening, and pictures from the night are shared below. See the video: Inclusive Employment Works -Fairfield and DDRC.
Proud of Dezirae Gurule - Our DSP NomineePublished: March 23, 2022
We are incredibly proud of Dezirae Gurule, our DDRC DSP nominee for the 2022 Colorado DSP of the Year. She is a winner in our eyes! As an Employment Specialist on the DDRC Employment Services team, Dezirae has contributed to the evolution of our service delivery culture, built strong relationships with her team, and has a meaningful impact on the career journeys of the people she supports.
Career Seeker Impact: Dezirae explores creative strategies to offer effective job coaching that supports independence. An example of her person-centered approach is when she began working with a career seeker who loves superheroes. The career seeker experiences anxiety, especially when trying to connect with new managers or co-workers. While some members of her support network felt the career seeker’s love of superheroes might be a hindrance to her success at work, Dezirae embraced what was important to this career seeker and explored how it could actually assist her at work and reduce anxiety. Dezirae helps this person build relationships with her team by being present with her for new introductions and encouraging conversation about superheroes. This employee now connects with new team members and mitigates her anxiety by talking about superheroes as an ice breaker. Instead of hiding her personal interests from her co-workers, it has become her superpower!
For example, Dezirae provided supports for an employee who was pursuing his next steps toward greater independence at work. DDRC had been providing line of sight (LOS) supervision duties for this employee during his shifts. He demonstrated through his work performance and positive choices that it was time to discuss if his LOS supports could be reduced or eliminated altogether, as he desired. While it wasn’t typical that the Employment Specialist would be involved in advocating for a transition away from line-of-sight supervision, Dezirae recognized his readiness to transition and helped him advocate for himself, including being present as a support during meetings that were not typically billable in Desirae’s role. However, this advocacy and her support promoted positive employment outcomes for this person. Our subject matter expert at HCPF applauded our advocacy and indicated that our inquiry regarding the matter of billable activities would serve as a best practice case study as HCPF evolves their fee schedule over the coming months. Dezirae’s initiative shows she puts service culture first and seeks to make that the norm.
Employer Relationships: Dezirae has a
natural talent for connecting with local employers and building relationships
with leaders in our local workforce to help open more doors for people we serve.
She builds a network of employer contacts which leverages in her own job
development efforts and shares her connections with her teammates so
that the career seekers we support find the right job match for their
employment goals.
Employers look to Dezirae as a resource for recruiting qualified candidates that are the right job match for their business needs and as a source of education around diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. For example, Dezirae has developed a close relationship with the Golden Hotel and Restaurant management team. Because of her time spent getting to understand this employer’s needs, they have been an incredible partner in promoting inclusive employment within their own hiring practices. They have approached Dezirae about educating their staff on how to support co-workers with disabilities in an inclusive and equitable way. When hiring opportunities become available, they reach out to Dezirae because they know that she will connect them with qualified candidates and be a meaningful resource and support for new employees. Similarly, Dezirae has also built strong working relationships with Burlington and the managers there have reached out to Dezirae to help with their hiring efforts in other parts of the state.
Dezirae’s contributions as an Employment Specialist at DDRC truly impacts every aspect of our work. From growing our team, to educating employers, to serving career seekers, Dezirae exemplifies Employment First and advancing our vision for people with disabilities to pursue their employment goals and participate fully in the workforce.
And today, more than ever, positive outcomes for
employees and employers, and workforce participation, are of importance for so many!
Gifts Make a Touching ImpactPublished: January 24, 2022
Holiday lights have mostly faded, but the impact of holiday giving shines on. In December several community groups and people, moved by their generous hearts and “can-do” spirits, organized holiday fundraising, gift card and gift donation drives. These efforts made a positive impact on the 200+ gift recipients: people served by DDRC, their families and their caregivers, whose need was identified by DDRC staff. Gift items and many gift cards to King Soopers, Walmart and Target were distributed, bringing smiles of appreciation and touching recipients in meaningful ways.
The family of
a young man with developmental disabilities had been in dire straits due
to the mother having MS and having difficulty covering health care costs. The
gift cards were used to purchase items of necessity. This mom cried with
gratitude when she was told they would receive the gift cards.
Another family with
an adult child with disabilities living at home also has other family
members at home with severe health problems. The Target card allowed them to
get some things they could not afford before the holidays, and they were
delighted. Another person served by DDRC who is often financially
strapped, was so thankful and relieved to receive a gift card and he even
purchased items for his dog, a very selfless act on his behalf.
All this came through
the efforts of many volunteers and donors. The Holiday Open House
Drive-By event, organized by DDRC Board member Mary Ann Tillman along
with Becky Shreck, and fellow volunteers
Jill Polito, Amanda DiVito Parle, and Layne Mielke, generated over
$11,000 including online donations, cash, and checks, in addition to the gift
card contributions.
The Masons, a fraternal order, also collected money
for gift cards, through the dedicated efforts of Mason Grant Sanders, raising
$3,825 in donations from the Marquis de Lafayette Lodge #41, the Paul Revere
Lodge #130, and other individuals associated with the Masons, including Lincoln
and Sherry Soul and Dee O’Kelly.
But that’s not all! DDF Board member Paula Emeson facilitated a $250 donation from the Arvada-Jefferson Kiwanis Club. Volunteer Lynn Fiederowitcz also hosted a gift drive, and her friends and guests donated gift cards, along with movies, board games, and puzzles to provide indoor entertainment. Volunteer Ruth Probasco donated “care bags,” of clothing, activity books and more.
DDRC staff from Resource Coordination (RC), Early Intervention (EI), Children and Family Services (CFS), A Better Choice (ABC) and Quality Living Options (QLO) identified people in need and served as "Santa's Helpers" to make sure gift cards and items were distributed, particularly DDRC staff Christina Smith (CFS/El); Anna Allen (RC); Bruce Fritz (ABC); Julie Wenning (QLO) and Jennifer Dawson (Main Office Receptionist). And importantly, DDRC’s Volunteer Services Coordinator April Richey was instrumental in coordinating all these efforts with DDRC staff and volunteers.
A huge thank you to all these volunteers and contributors,
and hat’s off to all the staff who went the extra mile!
A Spirt to Admire - A Special Staff PersonPublished: December 22, 2021
We are so grateful to have wonderful employees !
Joana grew up in Ghana, Africa. When she was barely a teen,
her younger sister contracted a disease that left her deaf. Classmates teased
or bullied her sister, and early on Joana was struck by this insensitivity and
saw the importance of sticking up for people and helping them be accepted and
fit in.
Joana’s family was unable to afford her dream of an
education to be a nurse after high school, but she parlayed a gift of a sewing
machine to sew thigs to make money, and even helped other graduates learn the
trade too. Eventually, Joana immigrated to America, taking her hardworking and
kind spirit with her.
“I want people to be comfortable, to be ready to go out in
the community, be met with smiles, and not be left out,” Joana says, explaining
that helping people meet the world with dignity is important. She also helps
them find joy in daily living by doing activities like lunch at a park, going
grocery shopping, going to a movie or doing some hobby or art at home. “I love
to cook and try new recipes too, so residents can discover what they enjoy” she
says.
Joana lovingly accepts that each person has their own
interests, abilities and challenges. She has developed close relationships to
the people she supports and to their family members too, which is comforting
for family that does not live close by. Recently, Joana and Donna, a woman
residing in an apartment and receiving supports, enjoyed putting up a holiday
tree and decorations sent by Donna’s sister.
Joana has saved and paid to build a house in Ghana where one
day she will semi-retire and help her elderly mother. She envisions starting a
small business there, employing people to make water bags for homes in a
community where the water supply isn’t reliable.
“Family is everything,” Joana is often heard to say, and she
brings that outlook to her role at the DDRC apartment residences. She also
brings that outlook to her interactions and warm encouragement to the newer
DDRC IRSS staff who she describes in glowing terms. No doubt she serves as a
positive example: “This job is not just because you need money. This is a job
where you enjoy helping people. You need to have heart,” she says. We are so
fortunate that we have people like Joana Appiah whose amazing heart helps us
achieve our mission!
Disability Employment Awareness Month and Preston Story Published: October 1, 2021
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). It’s a time to celebrate successes in integrated employment and what people of all abilities have to offer in the workforce. Over the years, people have been working to change systems, change laws and change attitudes. We are proud that DDRC and our Employment Services have been a part of this movement.
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| Preston at work at Advance Auto Parts |
Preston’s Employment
Journey
Pursuing one’s passion
and finding job fulfillment is not some faraway dream, not when you show
openness and have support. It worked out for Preston, thanks to his interest and
willingness to explore change and the support he received from DDRC’s
Employment Services and Employment Specialist Andera Samuelson.
Preston worked for six years on a DDRC janitorial crew comprised of people with developmental disabilities. At the time, Preston considered this the maximum contribution he would make to the workforce. When COVID emerged, the segregated crew that Preston worked on was temporarily halted, but that disruption became a catalyst for change. Rather than reopening the crew when the situation was more manageable, it was clear that the right course of action was to work with each employee to understand their unique work goals and path forward. It was a time to put integrated employment into full practice.
Preston began working with Andrea to explore his interests and the strengths he brings to the workforce. As part of that discovery and job development process, it became apparent that Preston has a passion for automobiles. When Andrea took Preston to Advance Auto Parts, he lit up immediately and started educating her about all the auto parts! This was the spark she was looking for, the clue that this could be a career that Preston loves. With Andrea's support, Preston pursued a Parts Salesperson position and accepted a job offer with Advance Auto Parts.
If you’re looking to hire a qualified candidate or are a person with a developmental disability wondering about career opportunities that are right for you, reach out to DDRC’s Employment Services at 720.544.8114, or call DDRC’s Case Management at 303.233.3363 for suggestions to get started.
Masonic Brothers Make an Impact for the BetterPublished: September 1, 2021
Masons from Marquis de Lafayette Lodge #41 and Denver Lodge #5
The Masons’ tagline and guidepost is the value of “making good men better,” and striving to help make better communities too. On a late summer weekend, they came together to do just that while cultivating camaraderie among their members.
They worked shoulder to
shoulder to cut, trim, pull, dig out and stack all kinds of overgrown plants
and weeds of the DDRC Belmar apartments in Lakewood, currently serving 8 adults
with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
They
painted a long stretch of privacy fence, trimmed trees, and cut bushes to
create wider, easier walkways for residents. They spread new mulch to create a
fresh look and pulled many dying bushes from the streetside to give the
property a prouder, neat look. It was two days of work, creating heaping piles
of debris and filling a big dumpster, and when they were done, they made the
yard better - a lot better. In fact, they transformed the property!
Apartment residents and the Masons got together
briefly in the yard to meet each other while sharing refreshments. ”Wow!”
exclaimed Eric, one of the residents, “This looks so different and bigger! Now
we can walk all the way around the pavilion. Thank you.” The other residents
nodded in agreement, saying it looked so nice, and expressing thanks. Voni
McDonald, DDRC Lead Counselor at Belmar said, “We are so grateful we can get
back out here and enjoy the space more, especially with COVID, when other
options have been limited. Thank you, Masons!” The get-together gave the
Mason’s a firsthand idea of the people benefiting from their efforts and the
impact they were making.
This would not have been
possible were it not for the values of the Masons, and especially due to Grant
Sanders, Mason, who helped to spearhead the initiative. Grant invited
participants from his lodge, the Marquis de Lafayette Lodge #41, who came as a
large contingent, as well as Masons from Denver Lodge #5. They all worked hard,
were so congenial, and seemed truly gratified to see the impact of their
efforts.
Shoutout to Our Golf SponsorsPublished: August 15, 2021
Masks and COVID Tests Required in Group Homes as of August 2021 Published: August 5, 2021
NOTICE
OF REINSTATED MASK REQUIREMENT
AT RESIDENTIAL/ GROUP HOMES
And COVID-Testing Requirement
This notice involves DDRC
Residential Group homes
To: Residential care facilities (Nursing Homes, Assisted Living Facilities, Group Homes, and Intermediate Care Facilities)
From: CDPHE Residential Care Strike Team and Infection Prevention and Control Unit
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) released updated guidance modifying masking requirements. The changes come after the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended increased mask use indoors for vaccinated individuals on July 27.
Changes include:
· Added updates requiring universal mask use for staff, visitors, and residents regardless of vaccination status. The guidance allows for exceptions for vaccinated residents at particular times during activities and communal dining.
In addition to the mask requirement changes, CDPHE continues to
implement rapid testing for all unvaccinated staff and residents
that leave the facility for longer than 24 hours.
A Great Job Fits Brings Out the Best, As it Did For StevePublished: July 25, 2021
Over time, Steve worked in several departments, and he reports that he never missed a day of work. He prepared product for the kilns, drove a forklift, packed various product, and was called upon to show new team members how to do parts of the job. “I think I was a good teacher and some of the guys told me that too,” he shared.
At his retirement send-off, Steve’s
colleagues wrote him warm wishes and signed a framed Coors Tek beadwork piece
that was Steve’s own creation. The beadwork was one of a hundred pieces that he
has created, framed, and sold, many with a sports theme.
Steve enjoys learning. He participates in DDRC’s Discovery Technology Lab, exploring various apps, and challenging himself with vocabulary and word programs, with support from Erlen Marsh, Discovery technology Lab Instructor/Supervisor (pictured here with Steve).
Steve finds satisfaction living independently with his wife and son, while receiving support from DDRC’s A Better Choice supported living services.
When asked what he thought about retirement, Steve didn’t seem ready to slow down too much, saying he will continue his tech learning, beadwork, woodworking, and few other things too!
DDRC Self Determination InitiativePublished: June 15, 2021
DDRC Self
Determination Initiative (SDI)
Self Determination is a concept
central to everything DDRC does to support individuals and their families as
they choose how to lead their lives. So, it’s harmonious that DDRC also has the Self
Determination Initiative (SDI), an initiative that provides support to help
make aspirations a reality for people we serve.
DDRC’s new SDI Coordinator, Julia Panucza, who has worked in the IDD field and with DDRC’s Adult Vocational Services says, “I bring my dedication, experience and leadership to advocate for people with disabilities and help them achieve their goals."
A variety of services, materials and supports arising from
person-centered needs and goals may be considered for funding, such as:
· acquiring devices so people can stay connected, access email and have a tool for budgeting.
· bicycles and other equipment,
· classes /support to lead to entrepreneurship, employment, greater independence and personal growth.
· access to Employment Gateway, a web portal created as the brainchild of DDRC’s SDI, in coordination with others, to help job seekers. Each person creates a video resume and profile of their interests, skills and experience. It’s a powerful way for the individual to show who they are and what they can bring to a job.
Julia is excited to have more individuals apply and participate, and says, "I have a passion for what I do - to make goals and dreams a reality.” If you or someone you know would like to explore SDI funding, email Julia.Panucza@ddrcco.com or call 303.462.6528.
Marti Gets Meaning from DDRC Therapeutic Learning ConnectionsPublished: June 14, 2021
Marti has always enjoyed sports. She was
active in DDRC’s Therapeutic Learning Connections/ Recreation (TLC/Rec) program
playing Bocce ball and this spring she’s been part of a group of 13 individuals
on DDRC’s team training for Special Olympics Track and Field competitions, involving
distance racing, softball throw and long jump.
During a Saturday morning practice, Marti
explained that she had won 1st place in her race walking event at the
regional competition, saying, “It was hard not to cry when I won because I
wasn’t sure I could do it, but I did! I was proud and happy!”
For the race walking, Marti has her eyes
fixed on the finish line and is pumping hard. By the fourth time she is winded
at the finish line, but she beams as she says. “I love my DDRC Special Olympics
people.” And while usually it’s the coaches who give out the kudos, Marti
adds, “Rick and Kristina are doing a good job and I’m proud of them,” showing
that the supportive culture has rubbed off on everyone!
The team also participated in the state meet in June and everyone came away glad to have been a part of it.
Teammate Bret is shown in the tie-dye shirt.
Recreation Specialists Kristina and Rick are shown above with Marti.
If you or someone you know would like to participate in DDRC’s TLC/Rec programs, which include sports and other activities responsive to participants’ interests, please contact Kristina.Cripe@ddrcco.com or call 720.544.8115.
You can also talk
with your Resource Coordinator to explore many other programs too.
COVID Guidelines in Group Residential Homes - UpdatePublished: May 3, 2021
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Giving to DDRC - ReFUNDPublished: April 12, 2021
Consider donating a portion of your Colorado Tax Refund to DDRC. Just
enter our registration # 2002 300 3423 in the “Donate to a
Colorado Nonprofit” field of your filing form or look up Developmental Disabilities
Resource Center.
Read here to see our resilience in 2020 and the work you are fostering with your donation.
See our full report here: https://ddrcco.com/downloads/reports/DDRC_2020_Annual_Report.pdf
Learn more about Refund What Matters Colorado at https://refundwhatmatters.org/