6 Ways The Arc Supports People with I/DD and Their Families
February 26, 2026
Learn how The Arc’s local chapters, AdvocacyDenver and the Arc of Adams County, offer free advocacy, education, and community connection for children and adults in Adams and Denver Counties.
When people hear The Arc, they often think of donation sites, thrift stores, or big-picture advocacy. But local chapters of The Arc do much more, offering free, direct support for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), along with guidance, education, and resources for their families.
In both Adams and Denver Counties, organizations like The Arc of Adams County and AdvocacyDenver offer personalized advocacy and community-based services at no cost, helping individuals with I/DD better understand their rights, access supports, and feel more connected. Here’s a closer look at some of the ways they can help.
1. Community Events Including an Upcoming Resource Fair This April
Local Arc chapters host inclusive community events that bring together people both with and without disabilities. These events range from resource fairs to social events like trunk-or-treats or bingo.
With a goal of fostering both community and inclusion, the wide variety of events that Arc chapters host are great ways to connect with others, learn about resources, and have fun.
One of the easiest ways to learn about available supports is to see them all in one place, which is exactly the goal of this year’s upcoming resource fair hosted by The Arc of Adams County.
Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Resource Fair
When: Thursday, April 2 | 3:00–5:30 PM
Where: Adams 12 Educational Service Center
1500 E. 128th Ave, Thornton, CO 80241
The event will include:
- Opportunities to connect with local service providers and advocates
- Breakout sessions on topics like SSI, guardianship, Medicaid waivers, special education, and estate planning
- A chance to learn more about community organizations, including RMHS
This is a great event for individuals with I/DD and their families, caregivers, and professionals alike. RMHS will be in attendance – please stop by our table to say hello!
2. Free Advocacy for Children and Families
Raising a child with an I/DD often means navigating school systems, health care, and disability services all at once.
The Arc provides one-on-one advocacy to help families understand their options, prepare for meetings, and feel confident speaking up for their child. Support is tailored to each family’s goals and can happen in person, virtually, or both.
Families often receive support with:
- Special education supports like IEPs and 504 plans
- School discipline concerns
- Disability systems and benefits
- Finding resources and services that align with family goals
Arc advocates can also attend school alongside families if they want extra support ensuring that accommodations truly meet their child’s needs.
Request child & family advocacy:
3. Advocacy and Support for Adults with I/DD
Adults with I/DD can access free, ongoing advocacy services focused on independence, informed choice, and full participation in the community through The Arc.
Support starts with a conversation about what matters most to the individual and continues for as long as they find it helpful.
Common areas of support include:
- Navigating disability services and benefits
- Building self-advocacy skills
- Representation at meetings with service providers
- Employment-related accommodation or discrimination concerns
- Advocacy related to court or justice system involvement
Request adult advocacy:
4. Support with Understanding Your Rights
Disability systems and policies can feel overwhelming and full of jargon. The Arc helps break things down in plain, practical language so individuals and families can understand their rights and make informed decisions, even as policies evolve and change.
Local chapters regularly share guidance and education around topic like:
- Disability rights
- Special education
- Medicaid and public benefits
- Guardianship and supported decision-making
You don’t need to know exactly what to ask – staff can help you figure that out, too.
AdvocacyDenver also offers additional legal support through its Center for Special Education Law, which provides legal representation to Colorado parents and their children with disabilities when needed.
5. A Simple Way to Ask Questions (Even When You’re Not Sure What You Need)
Not sure where to start? You’re not alone.
Both The Arc of Adams County and AdvocacyDenver make it easy to ask questions and get pointed in the right direction, without pressure or commitment. Staff help identify next steps and connect people with relevant resources in their area.
- Adams County: Submit an online request through The Arc of Adams County’s website or call their main line at 303-428-0310
- Denver County: Call AdvocacyDenver at 303-974-2530
6. Support Groups and Community Connection
The Arc also creates opportunities for people to connect with others who share similar experiences and goals.
The Arc of Adams County currently offers support groups, such as:
- Speaking for Ourselves – A monthly self-advocacy group for adults with I/DD
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- To learn more or join, contact Angi Harding at aharding@arcadams.org
- Familias Guiando a Superhéroes Con Amor – A monthly Spanish-speaking group for parents and caregivers of children with I/DD.
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- To learn more or join, contact Genesis Varela at gvarela@arcadams.org
A young adult support group is also in development. Check the Arc of Adams County for more information later this year.
These groups focus on connection, confidence-building, and shared learning.
Supporting People Where They Are
For people with I/DD and their families in Denver and Adams Counties, The Arc’s local chapters offer something powerful: free, knowledgeable advocacy and support rooted in rights, respect, and inclusion.
If you’re looking for advocacy, information, or connection, The Arc is a great place to start.
RMHS is also proud to partner with local organizations like The Arc to support people with disabilities in our community. Learn more about available services or connect with us at an upcoming event such as the Arc of Adams County Resource Fair on April 2.
