MARCH developmental disabilities   

A US Census reports poverty rates are higher among families with members with a disability than among families without in all 50 states. This often results in one parent sacrificing their career in order to became a full-time caregiver to fill gaps in existing systems. A family caregiver averages 32 hours per week providing unpaid care for a family member with a serious emotional or mental health issue. This can devastate families, caregivers and postive outcomes even in a booming economy. These circumstances perpetuate a cycle of poverty and adversity increasing the likelihood of negative outcomes for individuals, families and caregivers.

Recent ACLU data shows students with disabilities were nearly 3X more likely to be referred to law enforcement in school than students without! Adults with specific learning disorders are 46% more likely to attempt suicide, even after adjusting for childhood adversities, mental illness, addiction history and other socio-demographics. As is the case in many causes the majority of funding goes to research and diagnostics, while the corresponding demand created for a lifetime of treatment programs, educational services and employment opportunities is severly under-funded. This means more families suffering in silence while they wait for services and support.

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES month  

Inclusion works for everyone, and that means parents and professionals too. Empowering people to help themselves will help address the lack of services and supports through skills and abilities training, flexibile employment and adaptive careers. These and other proven solutions can provide immediate opportunities and relief to some who are struggling, while helping agencies and organizations reach and help more people in need at the same time. Meaningful earning opportunities can help drive supply and demand for local expertise by enabling parents to hire additional expertise to compliment existing systems and supports. At the same time meaningful second incomes for local teachers, therapists, nurses and others aids recruiting and retention strategies. When we work together... inclusion can work for everyone regardless of age or ability.

PROVEN SOLUTIONS

The Denver Channel - Jack's Bar & Grill in Arvada cooking up food and life skills

Denver Business Journal - Build with T.A.C.T.

Pizzability is another proven entrepreneurship solution at work in Colorado Hospitality

COMMUNITY connections

MOUNTAIN LIFEWORKS recognizes the distinctions between root causes and factors that trigger or contribute to them. By using verified data and building a coalition of proven and willing partners we balance commercial and philanthropic strategies.  This innovative and balanced approach integrates public, private and non-profit solutions to expand qualified options, grow stronger economies and build more inclusive communities for everyone. We invite you to join our growing coalition and help increase local opportunities, reduce long-term costs and improve outcomes for our neighbors and their caregivers.

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