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The Calabrese Life Opportunities Fund

The Arc of Colorado is a support and advocacy organization for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. The Arc believes in self-determination by empowering people to make informed choices. We believe that children with I/DD should have the supports and services they need to live in their family homes, to succeed in school and to partake in all of the experiences of childhood. Adults with I/DD should have the opportunity to lead lives of their own choosing, to be free from poverty, to be employed, to reside in the community, and to live independently with ready access to whatever services and supports they need. The Arc is known as a responsive nonprofit organization, constantly evolving to meet the changing needs and circumstances of people with I/DD and their families. Based on the values of The Arc and the need to be responsive to the needs of our community The Arc of Colorado has created The Calabrese Life Opportunities Fund. The fund is named in honor of Elizabeth Calabrese – a longtime Colorado advocate and supporter of people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.

The Calabrese Life Opportunities fund is designed to help people with developmental disabilities of all ages in a variety of areas - including, but not limited to:  

∙ Self-determination – The Arc strives to empower people to get involved in their community, become more independent, and experience authority over their own lives. This fund will assist self-advocates to purchase items to live more independent lives, such as assistive technology devices, accessibility equipment, as well as, attendance at conferences and other educational programs intended to enhance independent living.
·  Family Preservation – families are being stretched beyond their capabilities caring for family members. The fund will provide resources to keep families together and well cared for. Examples include extra behavioral supports, counseling for parents and siblings, conferences, educational opportunities, and respite.
·  Emergency – funding for unexpected situations not covered by publicly funded programs such as anesthesiology for dental care – or the cost of emergency housing when a self-advocate becomes homeless.

Any individual with an intellectual and/or developmental disabilities in The State of Colorado is eligible to apply for assistance through a grant application to the Calabrese Life Opportunities Fund.

We invite you to share in creating this legacy for our community contributing to the fund and partnering. Your contribution to The Arc of Colorado will be designated for the Life Opportunities Fund and is full tax-deductible. We invite you to partner with us by sharing this invitation with your friends and family. 

We thank you for your consideration,

The Arc of Colorado Board of Directors

The Calabrese Life Opportunities -Emily

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