Resources: 📝
The Colorado Procedural Safeguards document is a valuable resource for families navigating the special education process. It outlines the rights of students with disabilities and their families under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This document is a great place for families to find clear, accessible information about evaluations, IEPs, dispute resolution options, and more. It empowers parents and guardians to be informed advocates for their children and ensures that everyone at the table understands their rights and responsibilities.
The Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) is a powerful resource for families and professionals working to protect the legal and civil rights of students with disabilities. Through training, advocacy, and community support, COPAA equips parents, attorneys, and advocates with the tools and knowledge needed to ensure every child receives a free and appropriate public education. The organization’s website offers valuable information, connections, and ongoing updates to help families be strong, informed partners in the special education process.
Wrightslaw is a trusted resource for families and educators seeking accurate, up-to-date information about special education law and advocacy. The site offers clear explanations of complex legal topics, practical tips for navigating the IEP process, and tools to help families and professionals work together to support students with disabilities. Whether you are just starting your journey or looking to deepen your understanding, Wrightslaw provides the guidance and knowledge needed to advocate effectively.
Understood.org is a supportive and informative resource designed to help families of children with learning and thinking differences. The site offers easy-to-understand articles, expert advice, and practical tools that empower families to better support their children at home and in school. With resources for both parents and educators, Understood.org helps create a more inclusive, informed, and empathetic approach to learning and development.
A Day in Our Shoes is a relatable and informative resource for parents navigating special education and IEPs.Created by a special education advocate and parent, the site offers practical tips, printable tools, and real-life advice to help families understand their rights and advocate effectively for their children. It’s a great place for parents to find support, gain confidence, and feel less alone on their special education journey.
PEAK Parent Center is a leading resource in Colorado for families of children with disabilities, offering guidance, training, and advocacy to promote inclusive education and meaningful family engagement. Their programs empower parents to become strong advocates for their children by providing practical tools, workshops, and support grounded in the belief that all children can learn and participate fully in school and community life. PEAK helps families build partnerships with schools and navigate the special education system with confidence.
Family Voices Colorado is a trusted resource dedicated to supporting families of children and youth with special health care needs and disabilities. They provide one-on-one assistance, workshops, and reliable information to help families navigate health care, education, and community services. With a strong focus on family-centered care and empowerment, Family Voices Colorado ensures that families feel heard, supported, and equipped to make informed decisions.
Parent to Parent of Colorado (P2P-CO), a program of Ability Connection Colorado, is a vital resource for families of individuals with disabilities or special healthcare needs. P2P-CO offers a range of services, including one-to-one trained support parent matching, private online discussion groups, virtual support groups, and public policy advocacy opportunities. Their mission is to ignite hope and empower caregivers by fostering peer supports through an inclusive, parent-led community, enhancing the quality of life for themselves and their loved ones.
The Arc is a nationally recognized organization that advocates for the rights and inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With a network of chapters across the country, including local support, The Arc provides resources, advocacy, and programs that empower individuals and their families to lead full, self-determined lives. The organization is a vital source of information, community connection, and policy leadership for those navigating disability-related systems and supports.
The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is a leading human rights organization dedicated to advocating for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Founded in 1979, NDSS works to empower individuals through policy change, providing comprehensive resources, and fostering community engagement. Their initiatives include the Buddy Walk® program, educational resources, and advocacy efforts to influence public perception and ensure equal rights for people with Down syndrome. NDSS collaborates with over 250 local organizations nationwide, offering support from birth through adulthood.
The Northern Colorado Down Syndrome Association is a welcoming and empowering resource for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. The organization provides connection, education, and community events that celebrate abilities, promote inclusion, and support individuals across the lifespan. Through advocacy, outreach, and family support, NoCo Down Syndrome Association helps create a more inclusive and informed Northern Colorado community.
The Rocky Mountain Down Syndrome Association (RMDSA) is a trusted organization that provides resources, advocacy, and community for individuals with Down syndrome and their families across Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region. RMDSA offers support from birth through adulthood, including educational programs, social events, and access to critical information. Their mission is to empower families, promote inclusion, and celebrate the unique contributions of people with Down syndrome.
Colorado Hands & Voices is a parent-driven, nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families with children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Without bias around communication modes or methodology, they provide families with the resources, networks, and information needed to improve communication access and educational outcomes for their children. Through outreach activities, parent/professional collaboration, and advocacy efforts, Colorado Hands & Voices enables Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing children to reach their highest potential.
Disability Scoop is a trusted and reliable news source dedicated to providing timely and accurate information about disability-related topics. It covers the latest research, policy changes, and personal stories affecting people with disabilities and their families. With clear, accessible reporting, Disability Scoop helps families, educators, and advocates stay informed about developments in autism, Down syndrome, education, healthcare, and more. It is an excellent resource for anyone seeking current news and insights to better understand and support the disability community.
The Autism Society of Colorado (ASC) is a trusted resource dedicated to supporting individuals with autism and their families across Colorado. ASC offers a wide range of programs and services, including online peer support groups, social gatherings, and autism 101 training sessions, all designed to foster connection and empowerment within the autism community. Their comprehensive resource guide provides valuable information tailored to different age groups, from children to adults, ensuring that individuals at every stage of life have access to the support they need. Additionally, ASC's commitment to advocacy and inclusion is evident through their efforts to create a world where everyone in the autism community is connected to the support they need when they need it.