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 is 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 life and the circumstances influencing it. Although there are ten CILs throughout the state, DRS is the only CIL in Larimer County. 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: The mission of Disabled Resource Services is to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve their maximum level of independence and to gain personal dignity within society. Disabled Resource Services, as a private non-profit state certified center for independent living, is dedicated to working with individuals with all types of disabilities in Larimer County to promote their independence and equality through services which support advocacy, awareness and access to their community.

DRS was started as a grassroots organization by persons 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 20 years DRS has been serving people with disabilities in Larimer County with assistance, support, and advocacy that help 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 90% are persons living at or below the poverty level because most rely on fixed incomes from welfare 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 $500 a month falls short of even meeting the basic needs of food and shelter. However, through our two programs, Case Management and Community Awareness and Response, 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.

Analysis of data collected annually identifies existing needs within the community and specifically within our client population. Demand for services within our Case Management program grew 19% in 1999, having surpassed last year in the number of people needing extended help to over 300 people. Between 1995 (191 client cases) and 1999 (301 client cases) there has been a 58% increase in the number of Case Management clients. Likewise, the services furnished through Community Awareness and Response grew by 6% over 1998 and by a 48% increase in the number of people served between 1995 (3,592) and 1999 (5,199). Demographic data from 1999 show more females (63%) than males (37%) were served. The largest age group is adults (67%), followed by seniors (23%), then youth (10%). Fort Collins remains the primary area of residence at 52%, followed by Loveland at 40% with Estes Park and Berthoud each at 1%. Minorities served represent 13% and Hispanics are counted separately at 8%.

DRS served 5,500 people through its two programs during 1999, a 7% increase over 1998, and statistics indicate this trend will continue due to a growing senior population and with medical technology sustaining the lives of people whose conditions were previously catastrophic. DRS will continue serving this segment of some of our communities’ neediest individuals who are struggling not only against poverty but also coping with disabilities that affect their lives daily. Go to top