Welcome to the New Chapter of Our Story

A Message from the Executive Director

We’re excited to welcome you to the newly revamped newsletter from The Arc of Northeast Colorado! While our mission to support and advocate with and for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities remains unchanged, how we share that mission with you is evolving. 

This newsletter is more than just an update—it’s a way to bring you closer to the work, the people, and the impact that defines our organization. Each issue will feature stories of advocacy, community partnerships, upcoming opportunities, and the small but powerful moments that keep us moving forward. 

Whether you’re a longtime supporter, a new ally, or simply someone curious to learn more, we’re glad you’re here. We hope this space informs, inspires, and invites you to be part of the movement toward greater inclusion and belonging for all. Thank you for walking this path with us.

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Advocacy Corner Back to School Tips

 Speak Up – Tell adults what helps you do your best.

✅ Stay Organized – Folders, backpacks & checklists = success!

✅ Know Your Supports – Your IEP, 504 Plan, and tools are there to help.

✅ Be Kind to Yourself – Feeling nervous is normal. You’ve got this! 💙

Need help? The Arc of Northeast Colorado is here for YOU and your family.

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Styles Beyond Stereotypes: A Night of Fashion, Inclusion, & Inspiration

Mark your calendars! On October 25th, The Arc of Northeast Colorado will host its highly anticipated Styles Beyond Stereotypes Fashion Show—a powerful evening that celebrates individuality, confidence, and inclusion. Models of all abilities will shine on the runway in stunning, one-of-a-kind designs created by the talented Birch Sisters—one of whom proudly lives with a disability herself.

This event is more than fashion; it’s a movement to challenge stereotypes and showcase the beauty of diversity. Tickets are going fast—get yours now before the show sells out!

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Wild West Hoedown

Our Second Annual Wild West Hoedown was a huge success, drawing over 300 attendees for an unforgettable evening of country fun and community spirit! Hosted at the beautiful Crow Creek Event Center, the night was filled with live music from Austin Wahlert, dancing, games, a mechanical bull, live animals, and plenty of great food and laughter.

This event was created especially for individuals with disabilities and their families, offering a welcoming space to celebrate inclusion while building friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. 

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all of our volunteers, sponsors, and partners—especially Monica Dominguez and the Crow Creek team—for making this incredible night possible.

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Summer Unified Basketball - 2025

This summer, The Arc of Northeast Colorado proudly hosted our largest Summer Unified Basketball League to date—bringing together over 200 participants, including athletes, volunteers, coaches, and referees! Across 10 action-packed sessions, we saw tremendous growth in so many participants, with great friendships formed and vital life skills developed that will carry over into school, work, and life beyond the court.

Thanks to our incredible coaches and volunteers, every game was filled with energy, encouragement, and moments of true sportsmanship. Our referees not only kept the games running smoothly but also served as positive role models for all athletes.

This league is more than just basketball—it’s about building confidence, creating connections, and celebrating what’s possible when inclusion leads the way.

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News from the Northeast Corner 

Mental and Behavioral Health at the Forefront in Northeast Colorado

In northeast Colorado, a growing movement is underway to address the critical mental and behavioral health needs of rural and frontier communities through collaboration, advocacy, and systems change. The Arc of Northeast Colorado, represented by Community Outreach Advocate, Kandice Kramer, is actively engaged in these efforts across the six county region. Kandice’s recent participation in community discussions—such as the NECO S.T.I.R. gathering in Julesburg and the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration’s Community Conversation in Sterling—reflects a broader philosophical approach: breaking down silos, building relationships, and ensuring that the unique needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are not overlooked in behavioral health planning. These gatherings bring together voices from every level—government, providers, families, and advocates—to confront challenges, strengthen referral pathways, and foster a more inclusive and accessible behavioral health system. Through these efforts, The Arc is helping shift the conversation from isolated services to integrated, community-rooted solutions that prioritize dignity, access, and equity for all.