Adult Advocacy
The needs of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) evolve over time, particularly as they enter midlife and beyond. At The Arc of Jefferson, Clear Creek & Gilpin Counties, our Adult Advocates specialize in supporting individuals ages 35 through end of life, while recognizing that advocacy needs continually change over people’s lifetimes.
Addressing Core Challenges and Goals
Every adult we serve has unique goals, abilities, and support networks. The Adult Advocacy team prioritizes person-centered advocacy by connecting with each person directly and learning more about what they want for their lives. Our advocates work alongside people to empower them to speak up for themselves, pursue their goals, and access the resources they need to live self-determined lives.
As adults age, their advocacy needs can shift toward long-term planning and stability. Common areas of support include:
- Futures planning (e.g., legal and financial arrangements)
- Housing and exploring different living environments
- Employment stability
- Fostering a sense of belonging and community engagement
Our Adult Advocacy team helps people with IDD navigate these complex areas while staying focused on each person’s voice and vision for their life.
What Makes Our Support Unique
Advocacy is highly individual based on each person’s needs, but below are some examples of how we work with people:
- One-on-one advocacy for adults 35+
- We can meet in person, virtually, or talk on the phone, depending on the person’s preference.
- Guidance with systems navigation, including case management, Social Security benefits, working with interdisciplinary teams, and other supports
- Community events like Coffee House to promote connection
What sets our Adult Advocacy team apart is our commitment to individualized, relationship-based advocacy that adapts to each person’s preferences. We don’t just connect people to services, we stand by them as they define success on their own terms.
Collaborating with Families and Support Teams
Families, host home providers, case managers, and other community partners remain important parts of people’s support network. With permission from the person receiving advocacy, The Arc Advocates can:
- Communicate with support team members
- Participate in service planning and IDT meetings
- Represent or amplify the individual’s voice in key decision-making spaces
Ultimately, advocacy is voluntary and centered on what the person wants. No two advocacy journeys look the same.
A Foundation for Lifelong Empowerment
Advocacy in later adulthood plays a crucial role in promoting inclusion and self-determination. We support individuals in making informed choices about housing, guardianship, social opportunities, and more. By encouraging adults to communicate their needs to interdisciplinary teams, we help ensure their rights and preferences are respected.
Clarifying Who We Serve
IDD is characterized by significant limitations in intellectual and/or adaptive behavior functioning, occurring before the age of 22. To learn more about how IDD is defined, click here.
A common misconception is that a formal IDD diagnosis is required to receive advocacy from The Arc – Jefferson, Clear Creek & Gilpin Counties. We serve adults 35 and older who are seeking guidance, regardless of a formal diagnosis.
If someone is interested in exploring additional support services, such as Social Security benefits or Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) through waiver programs, our advocates can help guide them through those systems, including the case management and eligibility processes.
Things to Know
Our services are always free. We don’t want finances to create barriers to support. However, if you’d like to contribute, you’re welcome to make a donation to support our work.
Click here to make a donation!
We do not duplicate services. If you’re already working with a private advocate, another agency, or an attorney, we will clarify each of our roles and identify ways to work collaboratively to avoid confusion or overlap.
We do not serve as Representative Payees, Medical Proxy Decision-Makers, and/or take on new Legal Guardianships.
Ready to Get Started? Advocacy Starts Here!
We’re here to listen, support, and advocate alongside you.
Click here to submit a request for Individual & Family Advocacy!
