Navigating Colorado’s Disability Resources: Where to Start and Who to Call

Finding the right disability resources can feel overwhelming for families — especially when you’re trying to understand agencies, acronyms, eligibility requirements, and what programs actually help your loved one thrive.

The truth is: Colorado has a strong network of organizations ready to support you. The challenge is simply knowing where to start.

This guide breaks down the key places to call, the programs you’ll want to know, and the first steps every family should take.

Step 1: Contact Your Local Community Centered Board (CCB)

Your Community Centered Board (CCB) is the primary entry point for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Colorado. CCBs help determine eligibility, guide families through Medicaid waivers, and connect you with programs like day services, respite, and supported employment.

In Colorado Springs, the CCB is The Resource Exchange (TRE). Every region has its own.

How your CCB can help:

• Determine eligibility for developmental disability services
• Assist with Medicaid waiver applications
• Provide case management
• Connect families with local programs and providers

Find your CCB here:
👉 Colorado HCPF CMA & CCB Agency Directory

Step 2: Apply for Medicaid (Health First Colorado)

Many disability-related services — including therapies, residential support, equipment, or day programs — are funded through Medicaid.

How to apply:
Apply or check eligibility through the PEAK website:
👉 colorado.gov/PEAK

If your household income is too high, Colorado also offers the Medicaid Buy-In Program, allowing families to pay a monthly premium to maintain coverage.

Step 3: Contact the Colorado Department of Human Services

When families look for statewide information on disability services, they usually know the agency as the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS).

Within CDHS, there is a division that oversees services and policies for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities — but for most families, starting with the Department of Human Services is the clearest and most familiar path.

Why families contact CDHS:

• To learn about statewide disability programs and long-term services
• To understand policy or funding changes that might affect supports
• To get referrals to local agencies and advocacy organizations

You can then be directed to the appropriate division, including those focused on intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Step 4: Explore Family and Caregiver Support Networks

Connecting with other families who have navigated similar challenges can make a world of difference. Colorado has several organizations offering advocacy, parent mentorship, and peer-to-peer support.

Helpful organizations include:

• The Arc of Colorado – Advocacy, training, and disability rights support
  🌐 thearcofco.org
• Parent to Parent of Colorado – Peer mentorship and caregiver community
  🌐 p2p-co.org
• Family Voices Colorado – Guidance on navigating healthcare and benefits
  🌐 familyvoicesco.org
  

These groups help families feel less alone, while also offering direct pathways to additional services.

Step 5: Look Into Education and Transition Services

If your child is still in school, your local district’s Special Education team can help connect you with transition programs, community partnerships, and post-secondary supports.

Ask about:

• Vocational or work-based learning opportunities
• School-to-work transition services
• Parent resource centers
• Community job training programs

These supports can help bridge the gap between school and adult life.

Step 6: Learn About Adult Services and Employment Options

When your loved one enters adulthood, new programs become available. These may include day programs, residential options, supported community connections, and employment services.

Providers like RiseUP support adults through:

• Structured day programs
• Life-skills development
• Community integration
• Supported Employment Services
• Residential supports (where applicable)

Each adult’s plan can be tailored to their strengths, goals, and independence level.

Step 7: Stay Engaged and Keep Asking Questions

Systems change. Policies shift. Needs evolve. Staying connected with your CCB, local providers, and advocacy organizations ensures you always have up-to-date information.

• Attend community info nights.
• Sign up for provider newsletters.
• Stay active in parent networks.

Most importantly — remember that you’re not navigating this alone.

At RiseUP, we’re here to guide you through each step and help your family access the services, clarity, and confidence you deserve.

Rising Together. Thriving Forever.

About RiseUP

RiseUP is at the forefront of advancing inclusion for neurodivergent individuals in Colorado. With a dedicated K–12 school, adult day and residential programs, and supported employment services, RiseUP provides comprehensive support from childhood through adulthood. RiseUP’s mission is to promote dignity and self-worth by building transformational communities where people of all abilities thrive side by side.  Together, we RiseUP for inclusion.