DENVER (Feb. 12, 2025) — Colorado is the best state in the nation for people with disabilities, according to a recent study conducted by the AAA State of Play. This recognition highlights our state’s commitment to inclusivity, accessibility and support for all people with disabilities. The study evaluated states across multiple factors, including access to healthcare, employment opportunities, educational support and community resources.
“This recognition reflects Colorado’s dedication to creating an environment where people with disabilities can thrive,” said Michelle Barnes, executive director of the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). “CDHS’s people-first approach empowers all the people we serve to do just that, as well as contribute meaningfully to their communities.”
CDHS is proud to have many innovative programs that support these goals. The state’s three Regional Centers provide homes of learning, life and support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These homes offer behavioral services, physical, occupational and speech/language therapy and more. Additionally, nearly a dozen residents statewide participate in supported employment, which is when CDHS staff accompany individuals to work locations and help them with anything they may need. Specifically, the Pueblo West Metro swimming pool, Black Rock Coffee, and ChristLife Ministries provide employment opportunities to individuals at the Pueblo Regional Center.
CDHS is also celebrating the following key initiatives to support people with disabilities:
- MINDSOURCE Brain Injury Network connects people with brain injury and their caregivers to services and community resources, and funds education and research activities through the Colorado Brain Injury Trust Fund. MINDSOURCE also identifies gaps in services and supports and collaborates across private and public partners to meet the needs of individuals with brain injury and their family members through the Colorado Advisory Council on Brain Injuries.
- The Colorado Commission for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind operates nine programs that provide free telecommunications equipment for Coloradans who qualify; sign language interpreting and Communication Access Realtime Translation services for all the Colorado State Courts and state administrative proceedings; support services that allow DeafBlind Coloradans to live in and navigate their environments independently; early hearing detection and intervention support for children aged birth to three and their families; and outreach, presentations and trainings provided free of charge.
- People 5 years of age and older with a disability can get cash assistance to pay a home care provider, thanks to the Home Care Allowance (HCA) program. Coloradans can use these funds to pay for services that help them remain in their homes, such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation and shopping.
“Everyone deserves the opportunity to live a full and independent life,” said Erin Wester, director of the Office of Adult, Aging and Disability Services at CDHS. “We’re proud to lead the way in ensuring that Colorado is a place for all and where everyone belongs.”
This achievement underscores CDHS’s commitment to serving all Coloradans, ensuring that Colorado is a state where everyone can thrive, no matter their disability status.
CDHS supports people and families by connecting them with assistance, resources and support at every stage of their lives. We serve Coloradans through bold and innovative health and human services. And together, we empower Coloradans to thrive.
Media contact:
AnneMarie Harper, Director of Communications
601.566.9271
annemarie.harper@state.co.us