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They say that with the new year you have a chance to turn over a new leaf. Well, participants of DDRC’s Therapeutic Learning Connections (TLC) Recreation went one step further - they planted new leaves!
It was part of a terrarium building experience in January where participants learned about all the tender care and environment a terrarium needs – drainage, soil nutrients, moisture and room to grow. After layering the elements and then carefully placing the new plants, they were also able to choose a terrarium “companion” of their liking-small artificial animals-to tuck among the leaves.
Caring for the terrarium brings a few moments of focused calm to the day, along with a smile and a sense of responsibility to keep the green alive and growing. And one of the participants was excited for her creation which she was giving to her boss as a wedding present, complete with two polar bears to signify the couple!
Learn more about opportunities through DDRC TLC/Rec at 720-544-8150.
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Family Support Services Program Funds Available | |
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The Family Support Services Program (FSSP) provides services and supports that are related to the person’s disability and are above and beyond typical child rearing or daily living expenses. Families are eligible for funds if they have a family member with a developmental delay or disability living in the family home. To be considered, please submit your Most-In-Need Assessment and Service Request forms available through our web site. The deadline to apply is May 31, 2023. Don’t wait. Submitting your assessment and request forms early helps to ensure you have funds approved for reimbursement of expenses that are already incurred, as well as any anticipated expenses for the remainder of the fiscal year.
FSSP funds may be used for such things as respite care, assistive technology, home modifications, transportation/mileage to access disability services, counseling, therapies and more. Funds provide payments up to your authorized limit for disability related services provided on or after 7/1/2022 through 6/30/2023. For more information about FSSP and what funds can be used for, please refer to "Service Limits and Exclusions.” (En Español )
Find information and the application forms here. To have the forms and guide sent to you please contact your Service or Resource Coordinator, or Christina Smith
at 303-462-6576, christina.smith@ddrcco.com
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SEAC Resource Fair is Back - Feb. 28 | |
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The Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC), a committee of Jefferson County Schools, will be hosting a Resource Fair on Tuesday, February 28 from 5:00-7:30 PM. After a three-year hiatus, this is a “don’t miss” opportunity for families with children with special needs to connect with resources, providers, and experts.
The fair is relevant for children grades 1-12, and to students preparing to move into the adult world. Jeffco Special Education administration, staff and SEAC parent volunteers will also be on hand to talk with families and answer questions about SEAC and Jeffco Schools programs.
Mark your calendars to attend. The event will be held in the 5th floor Board Room of the Jefferson Education Center, 1829 Denver West Dr. Golden, CO 80401. For more information or accommodations, contact Holly Dolfi 303-982-6710 holly.dolfi@jeffco.k12.co.us and visit https://www.jeffcopublicschools.org/
SEAC Flyer English
SEAC Flyer Spanish
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Blitz Build is Underway Through Home Builders Foundation | |
The Home Builders Foundation (HBF) is out in full swing to “do good!” They’re swinging hammers, driving nails, measuring rise, and seeing how they can help people in need of wheelchair ramps through their “Blitz Build“ initiative. Mobilizing hundreds of volunteers, including building trades volunteers, the HBF has constructed more than 200 wheelchair ramps since 2011, improving the access and lives of those who have benefitted
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Previously only a summer program, HBF is now inviting people who have wheelchair ramp needs to apply anytime for Blitz Build assistance. The construction of the accepted requests will be done during a monthly “Mini Blitz” between May and October. Requests need to be made using the HBF online application, which are reviewed monthly. Projects need to meet certain qualifications.
For the flyer click here. To apply, visit www.HBFDenver.org.
Thank you, HBF, for coordinating and undertaking this wonderful work!
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The Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) continues to undertake a major initiative related to Case Management Redesign (CMRD) that refers to several initiatives including a single Case Management Agency (CMA) for Jefferson and Clear Creek Counties. In December, HCPF released a request for proposal to secure case management services, which is due in February. | |
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DDRC and Jefferson County Human Services (JCHS) have been partnering and working on local solutions for several months. JCHS will be taking the lead to become the CMA for Jefferson and Clear Creek counties. If they are successfully awarded the request for proposal, the new CMA would be responsible for Resource Coordination, Quality Assurance and Family Support functions as part of the CMA at the county.
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.
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Medicaid Renewals and CAAS Help | |
Notice for people who receive Medicaid /Child Health Plan+ | |
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During the COVID 19 Public Health Emergency (PHE), members stayed enrolled in Health First Colorado (Medicaid) and CHP+ even if they had household or income changes.
The PHE is expected to end this spring and members will need to complete their financial redetermination paperwork to stay enrolled. Members who fail to fill out necessary information may lose their benefits.
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Starting in March, and throughout the next 14 months, members of Health First Colorado and CHP+ will receive information to renew their coverage at their annual renewal date. Members will need to complete the necessary paperwork in order to see if they still qualify for Medicaid health coverage.
Certified Application Assistance Sites (CAAS) are available to help members with redetermination, new Medicaid enrollment, updates to your contact information and to answer questions. Find a CASS site here.
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It is important to make sure you have correct contact information on file with the county, including a current address, phone and email, if applicable. There are several ways to make these updates:
- Visit CO.gov/PEAK to update.
- Use the Health First Colorado phone app (Google Play or Apple App).
- CHP+ members can call 800-359-1991 (State Relay: 711).
- Contact county department of human services, or your DDRC Resource or Service Coordinator.
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Free Training- Increase Mutual Understanding and Cooperation March 29 | |
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“Amazing teacher who used multitudes of different mediums to reach the audience.” That’s what a past participant said about DDRC’s Behavioral Health Team Manager, Zachary Maple, and the training he leads. He is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed Professional Counselor.
Zach is leading a free training to help parents, providers, and others learn ways to achieve more satisfying, cooperative and positive interactions with someone they care for and support. The training is applicable to different ages and settings, and uses real life examples to make the concepts more understandable and meaningful to participants.
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This free class will be held in-person on Wednesday, March 29th from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m., at the DDRC offices at 11177 W. 8th Ave., Lakewood 80215.
Advance registration is required by emailing your name and phone number to Zachary.Maple@ddrcco.com. Register by March 24th.
Download Flyer
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Child Care Subsidy Available - Apply by Feb. 15 | |
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Are you newly employed, or enrolled in school or job training, and in need of help paying for childcare? There is a new program to help qualifying families of young children ages birth to 8 years old who live in Clear Creek or Gilpin Counties.
The Triad Early Childhood Council is excited to announce the availability of funds made possible by the Colorado Dept. of Early Childhood Community Innovation and Resilience for Care and Learning Equity (CIRCLE) grant program.
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Apply by February 15.
For more information see: www.triadecc.org
or contact brenda.hobgood@rrcc.edubrenda.hobgood@rrcc.edu or call 303-895-0633.
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Golf Tournament - August 14 | |
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Mark your calendars for Monday, August 14 for the DDRC/DDF annual benefit golf tournament at the Hiwan Golf Club in Evergreen. Golfers, volunteers, and sponsors: step up for a wonderful day at a fabulous course, for an important cause!
Call 303-462-6574 to get involved and watch for further information to come.
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Set Your Email Preferences for Emails from DDRC
People served by DDRC and their families:
If you have already indicated that you wish to only receive official notifications, we ask for your patience as we work to coordinate and update those preferences in the database over the coming months. Thank you!
DDRC sends important information via this “Constant Contact" email platform, including information about DDRC services and supports, announcements of emergencies, etc. Please do not unsubscribe from Constant Contact emails since our communications will be restricted to U.S. mail and will take longer to get to you. If you prefer not to receive e-newsletters, invitations or donor opportunities please use our “Online Form” to indicate that you do not want to receive such emails. Official notifications about services and supports may then still be sent via Constant Contact, unless you contact us to indicate otherwise. Thank You.
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