News You Can Use
July - September 2023
News You Can Use is The Arc of Aurora's quarterly e-newsletter covering what’s new in public policy, events, resources, and happenings at The Arc of Aurora. To get daily updates on resources, disability policy information, and community happenings, find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
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A Note from Us to You
It's Membership Season!
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The Arc of Aurora is a dynamic and dedicated nonprofit that has been championing the rights of individuals with Developmental Disabilities for 48 years. Our mission is simple: to provide advocacy, and empowerment to those in need. And now, we invite you to join us on this incredible journey as a MEMBER for 2023/2024!
By becoming a member of The Arc of Aurora, you become an integral part of a community committed to transforming lives. We offer a range of membership levels tailored to fit every budget, ensuring that everyone can participate, including a complimentary membership option. Yes, you heard that right – we have a membership level that won't cost you a dime!
Learn more about the benefits of becoming a member from our Advocates!
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Here are some frequently asked questions:
Why should I complete an Organization Agreement?
By completing an annual Organization Agreement, you inform The Arc of Aurora about the type of membership and relationship you desire with the organization.
Does the Organization Agreement expire?
Yes, the Organization Agreement expires every year at the end of July.
Why should I become a Member?
Becoming a member not only grants you great benefits and establishes a partnership with The Arc of Aurora, but it also adds your voice to the collective support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) at the local, state, and national levels.
My loved one or I receive Individual Advocacy from an advocate. Do I need to complete an Organization Agreement?
Your advocate may have already contacted you regarding your Organization Agreement and to update your annual advocacy goals. If you have any questions or haven't heard from your advocate yet, please reach out to your advocate directly.
Do I need to be a Contributing or Basic Member to receive Advocacy services?
No, our Advocacy services are completely FREE but we do need an updated Organization Agreement to be sure what you need and want from us!
Still on the fence? Your membership doesn't just benefit you, it also keeps our doors open! By supporting The Arc of Aurora, you enable us to continue providing vital services, advocacy, and support to those who need it most.
So, what are you waiting for? Seize this opportunity to join an organization that is making a real difference in the lives of individuals with IDD. Whether you're already involved in advocacy, donate to us, volunteer, or simply believe in our cause, membership is the next step on your journey toward creating a more inclusive community!
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Upcoming Events & Announcements |
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Discounted Tickets to Elitch Gardens
Have fun while giving back!
We thank you for your support and hope you have a super fun time!
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Thank you for coming to our Member Event!
We had such a great time with our members, staff, and board at our Member Event last month!
We attended The City of Aurora Library and Cultural Arts Division Summer Jam with guest performers, the Kalama dancers and singers! It's always such a treat to get to spend time with our community.
Thanks to all who came out! It was great to see you!!
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Hang out with us on our social sites everyday! |
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THINK+change
Training and education
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Summer is heating up, and so are NO-COST products from The Arc of Aurora’s social enterprise, THINK+change! Check out our newest TALKS, TRAININGS, and TOOLS:
Story-telling TALKS Series:
THINK+change Academy TRAININGS Course:
Vodcast/Podcast TRAININGS Series:
TOOLS:
and for staying curious!
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Policy Profile
2023 Colorado State Legislative Session Wrap Up
Submitted by Hanni Raley, Executive Director
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The Arc of Aurora is proud to share some remarkable news with you that brings joy and hope to the hearts of individuals with disabilities in Colorado.
The recent legislative session that ended in May, included significant victories and measures that empower and support the rights and well-being of people with disabilities throughout the state. Join us in celebrating these achievements and recognizing the tireless efforts of advocates, lawmakers, and the entire community that made these victories possible.
Take a peek at the major wins in this quarter's Policy Profile below!
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How You Can Help
Help us spread the word!
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For the past three years, The Arc of Aurora has won a Top-Rated Nonprofit Award because our community was so helpful in spreading the word about our services!
By writing a review, we are able to attract donors and boost our online presence! That way more of our community knows that we are a resource available for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families!
Will you help us get the word out about The Arc of Aurora?
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Spotlight On
Our Newest Team Members:
Individual Advocates, Rachael Kelly and Jeff Kingston!
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Rachael Kelly has worked in special education for the past 6 years both in public and charter schools throughout Colorado. Rachael holds a Master's of Education from Loyola University and her Colorado Teaching License with an endorsement in Special Education as well as an AMI (3-6) Montessori Diploma. Rachael is eager to learn, grow, and collaborate with her colleagues and The Arc of Aurora community. She has lived in Denver, Colorado since 2015 and enjoys the many things Colorado has to offer including concerts at Red Rocks, hiking, farmers markets, gardening, and the plethora of sunshine! In her free time, Rachael enjoys cooking, reading, crafting, and playing with her dog Larry.
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Jeff Kingston is originally from Pittsburgh, PA and moved to Denver in 2012. He has been working with the IDD population since 2005 where he began working in an apartment program for adults with IDD. He has worked within several organizations with specialties including residential, employment and day services. Most recently, Jeff was the Executive Director of a PASA (Program Approved Service Agency) in Denver and is excited to bring his knowledge and skills to assist the individuals served by The Arc of Aurora.
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Community Mention Corner
All-Stars Club
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Meet Mitchell McCarty, one of the Program Directors for All-Stars Club, a Denver, Colorado non-profit that offers a place of belonging for friends with developmental disabilities... all while giving their parents and caregivers so much needed time off to rest.
Click the video thumbnail below to watch or visit:
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Fast Fact of the Month
Talevski Supreme Court Decision
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A recent Supreme Court decision affirmed the rights of nursing home residents to be able to sue to uphold their civil rights under the Federal Nursing Home Reform Act (FNHRA)!
“This decision is a crucial victory for the civil rights of nursing home residents, people with disabilities, and everyone protected under Titles VI and IX of the Civil Rights Act,” said Susan Mizner, director of the ACLU’s Disability Rights Program.
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You can donate to The Arc of Aurora anytime by clicking here! We appreciate your donation to help support individuals with IDDs.
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Thanks to our fans, we won a Top-Rated Award three years in a row! Read stories about us and add your own here!
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There is a community resource list on our website if you need help, to locate testing, vaccine info, and more.
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Have questions about anything in this newsletter? Contact Krystal Dawson.
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