As a Center for Independent Living (CIL) in Colorado, Disabled Resource Services (DRS) is a consumer controlled, community-based, cross-disability, non residential, private non-profit agency that was designed and largely operated by individuals with disabilities to provide an array of independent living services. We help clients deal with the challenges of disability and move towards greater empowerment and independence where they have more control over their lives and the circumstances influencing them. Although there are ten CILs throughout the state, DRS is the only CIL serving Larimer and Jackson Counties. It is also the only human service agency serving any disabled person, regardless of age or disability. To this end, DRS’ work is centered around the following mission statement:

Disabled Resource Services empowers individuals with diabilities to achieve their maximum level of independance through services supporting advocacy, awareness and access to their community.

DRS was started as a grassroots organization by people with disabilities who saw a need for developing an agency that clearly understood disabled people’s unique needs and struggles around poverty, discrimination, and dependency. Its purpose was to address those issues by providing specific services and assisting those needing help in accessing community resources. For over 30 years DRS has been serving people with disabilities in Larimer County with assistance, support and advocacy that helps increase their level of independence in order to lead more dignified, productive lives that maximize their full inclusion and participation in society. Of those seeking help from DRS, nearly 97% are persons living at or below the poverty level because most rely on fixed incomes to meet their basic needs. Unfortunately, living with a disability (and often more than one) results in added expenses relative to medical needs associated with a disabling condition such as medications, equipment, supplies, special foods, home modifications and home health care services. All too frequently a fixed income of about $640 a month falls short of even meeting the basic needs of food and shelter. However, through our two programs, Case Management and Access to Independance, DRS works to alleviate those stressful conditions in which our clients live. DRS staff work to effect positive changes in the lives of our clients through a full spectrum of help that is available.