Developmental Disabilities

Colorado Contacts

State Agency Responsible for Providing Services to the Developmentally Disabled

For more information on the Division for Developmental Disabilities call or write:

Alliance is a nonprofit, statewide association of Community Centered Boards (CCBs) and Service Provider Organizations (SPOs). We are distinguished by our leadership and advocacy of member organizations and the individuals and families they serve. Our efforts in the areas of public policy, state legislation, developmental disability initiatives, and demonstration of best practices have positioned us as the premier resource for organizations and individuals associated with Colorado's Community Centered System of developmental disability services and supports.

This organization was founded in 1973 as the Colorado Association of Community Centered Boards (CACCB). In 2005 the name was changed to Alliance. With the new name came a renewed commitment to quality community supports for people with developmental disabilities and their families in Colorado. Over 12,000 people are served in Colorado's Community Centered System. For more information, contact:

The Division for Developmental Disabilities (DDS) is the state agency that provides leadership for the direction, funding and operation of community based services to persons with developmental disabilities within Colorado. DDS services are administered under the Office of Adult, Disability and Rehabilitation Services.

State Agency Responsible for Overseeing Employment Opportunities for the Developmentally Disabled

The Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation will also help individuals with disabilities secure and retain employment. This division is also operated under the Colorado Department of Human Services. To access vocational rehabilitation services contact the nearest office.

Sheltered Employment

Sheltered employment is offered through the private, non-profit, Community Centered Boards. Services can be funded by the state or by Medicaid. The CCB may provide services directly or may purchase services.

Competitive Employment

The Community Centered Boards also place individuals with developmental disabilities in typical community-based settings.

Health and Safety

The State Office of Risk Management provides free consulting and technical services for all state departments and offers comprehensive safety and loss control programs and resources. A detailed State Risk Management Plan helps departments comply with workplace safety requirements and build the foundation for an effective safety and loss control program.

Colorado State University offers free OSHA consultation services. Their purpose is to help private businesses meet the OSHA job regulation standards and develop an ongoing, effective safety and health program.

The health and safety of privately employed workers in Colorado are protected by the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA has two area offices in the state of Colorado. OSHA enforces workplace safety and health standards and by providing safety and health information, training and assistance to workers and employers.

Reporting Abuse and Neglect

Colorado does not have a hotline dedicated to reporting abuse and neglect of vulnerable adults. To report a suspected case of abuse or neglect, call the police or sheriff, or call the adult protection services unit of your local county department of social services and/or The Colorado Coalition of Elder Rights and Adult Protection to request an investigation.

Protection and Advocacy

The mission of the Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council is to advocate in collaboration with and on behalf of people with developmental disabilities for the establishment and implementation of public policy which will further their independence, productivity and integration.

Founded in 1976, The Legal Center offers all of the federally-mandated Protection and Advocacy Systems for People with Disabilities in Colorado, as well as the Client Assistance Program, the Long-term Care Ombudsman Program, and the Legal Assistance Developer Program for older people.