What We Do

The Arc of the Central Mountains provides advocacy, outreach, public policy information, and education for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), their families, and communities across Eagle, Garfield, Lake, and Pitkin counties.

Each area of work is focused on protecting rights, increasing access to information and support, strengthening community connections, and helping people with I/DD have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives.

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Advocacy

At The Arc of the Central Mountains, we believe meaningful advocacy begins with listening. Every person, family, and situation is unique, and we take the time to understand individual experiences, concerns, and goals before exploring a path forward.

Our approach is rooted in collaboration, respect, and thoughtful problem-solving. We work alongside people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to help them understand their rights, explore their options, address barriers, and connect with resources and support. Throughout this process, we respect each person's voice, choices, and right to make decisions about their own life.

We also recognize that the communities we serve are as diverse as the people who call them home. By building meaningful relationships with individuals, families, organizations, and community partners, we gain a better understanding of local needs and work together to find solutions that strengthen inclusion and opportunity throughout the Central Mountains.

Our advocacy may include support with education and IEPs, employment, Medicaid, service providers, and other disability-related systems and services. Whether someone is facing a specific challenge or simply looking to better understand their options, our goal is to provide the information, guidance, and support needed to move forward with confidence.

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Outreach

Outreach connects people with disabilities, families, organizations, and the broader community. The Arc uses these connections to increase understanding of disability, reduce barriers, improve access to support, and create more opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in their communities.

The Arc’s outreach efforts include:

Education and Awareness:
Workshops, training sessions, and educational resources provide information, increase disability awareness, address misconceptions, and encourage more inclusive practices.

Community Support:
Events, gatherings, support opportunities, and community connections help individuals with disabilities and their families build relationships, find resources, and connect with others.

Accessibility:
The Arc encourages businesses, public spaces, organizations, and institutions to consider accessibility and inclusive design so more people can access and participate in their communities.

Through outreach, The Arc works to create communities where people with disabilities can communicate their needs, access support, build connections, and be recognized for their contributions.

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Public Policy

Public policy plays an important role in the rights, services, and supports available to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The Arc of the Central Mountains helps individuals and families better understand disability-related policy and how changes in laws and legislation may affect their lives.

The Arc also encourages people with I/DD and their families to stay informed, understand their rights, and have a voice in decisions that affect the disability community.

For additional information about national policy issues, current advocacy priorities, and ways to get involved, visit The Arc of the United States.

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Education

The Arc provides education and information to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families through different stages of life. Support may include information and resources related to public education, transitioning into employment or higher education, community-based living, long-term supports, and supported decision-making.

Supported decision-making is an important part of this work. The Arc encourages people with I/DD to be active participants in decisions about their lives and helps individuals and families better understand available options and resources.

Educational opportunities also extend into the broader community through workshops, training, and resources designed to increase knowledge and understanding of disability.

Individuals and families can contact The Arc with questions, learn more about available programs and services, or connect with support based on their needs.

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