Regional Centers Community Partners

The Regional Centers’ goal is to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in gaining skills and abilities to reintegrate safely and stably back into the community of their choice. This requires effort and openness from the community to be successful. Community partners are encouraged to join IDD advisory boards and open employment opportunities at local businesses, companies or organizations to individuals with IDD.   

Collaborative support for individuals

The Regional Centers work closely with the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) and case management agencies to support individuals with IDD.

• Members of the Community Services Team serve on the Emergency Response in Communities (ERIC) Committee, Complex Services Solutions Council and partner with multiple hospital and legal teams.
• Partnerships with Program Approved Service Agencies (PASA) provide residential, supported community connections, supported employment and behavior services for individuals in the Home and Community Based Services Developmental Disabilities Waiver (HCBS DD-Waiver).

How to get involved: Employment First

"Employment First" is a policy approach and philosophy that prioritizes and promotes the idea that individuals with disabilities should have opportunities for integrated, competitive employment. It emphasizes the importance of inclusion, equal opportunities and providing the necessary support and accommodations for individuals with disabilities to succeed in the workforce. This approach aims to break down barriers and create a more inclusive society where people with disabilities can fully participate in the workforce alongside their non-disabled peers.

DRC is determined to translate the principle and concept of Employment First into reality in the three Regional Centers and is actively working in-house with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation to make this happen. The Regional Centers have a large number of job seekers with a variety of backgrounds and skills all eager to work; the Regional Centers are here to collaborate/partner with businesses and organizations across all industry types to meet the specific needs and goals of that business or organization.

Employment First partnerships have included: King Soopers Reclamation Center; Hotsy car washing crew Emporium pet supplies; Randi’s Pizza; HOA lawn services; Federal Center Station; Coorstek; Pueblo West Metro pool; and Christ Life Ministries.