Networking
The Arc of Arapahoe & Douglas believes that cultural changes happen at the "grassroots" level, and that the only way to meet our goals for a more inclusive society is through community organizing. To that end, we support:
Neighborhood Cluster groups so that parents who have children with disabilities and/or chronic health care needs can connect with other parents in their communities for mutual support, community building and constructive group action. Clusters are groups, gatherings, or any other means by which families of individuals with special needs connect with each other. Each is self-defined and organized around participants' needs such as the age of the individual or type of disability; most, however, are neighborhood based. If you would like to join a Cluster group or start a Cluster group in your community, please contact Bobbi Gardner at 303-220-9228 ext. 3 or bobbi@arcarapahoedouglas.org.
People First of Arapahoe and Douglas is a group of teenagers and adults with disabilities gather to influence systems and participate in social activities. People First means that people with developmental disabilities are people first and have a disability second. The organization was started because people with developmental disabilities were isolated, segregated and their own voices were not being heard. The goal of this organization is that all people with developmental disabilities will be recognized as individuals and will be accepted and included in their communities. People First has monthly meetings, social gatherings, and organizes community service projects. Their goals are to:
- Establish networks of mutual support
- Increase community awareness about the abilities of people with developmental disabilities
- Be involved in political issues concerning the rights of people with developmental disabilities
- Help self-advocates work together for a common goal
- Provide training and information
For more information about People First, please call 303-797-0893.
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