It is with gratitude that we transition into 2026 and reflect on 2025, which has been a year of activity, family, and growth. How rewarding it is that we think of each other as family which shows in our actions and priorities, as well as the dedication and joy we share in helping the Intellectually and Developmentally Disabled (IDD) Individuals in our care to thrive. We could not fulfill our vision and mission without you – the Host Home Providers, Family Caregivers, and SCC Coordinators that are part of our extended, Evergreen family.
Activities
One family activity highlight was our incredible trip to see the Rockies win! We had fun in the large Warning Track room, enjoyed food and drink, and got to reconnect with old friends while watching the game! Since it was the last home game of the year, some Rockies players (and Dinger!) even came by to give us a wave and a fist bump! It was a wonderful opportunity to get to know each other better and strengthen our bond, as well as a great experience for our Individuals to get out into the community and participate in mainstream activities.
Our holiday luncheon was another annual highlight. Evergreen’s board members served up some delicious Olive Garden pasta, and we enjoyed a fun time of fellowship and connection. Thank you for making time in your busy schedules to come together at a season when we are especially thankful for family.
Family Caregivers
We continue to grow our Family Caregiver program which provides a solution for adult (18 years or older) IDD Individuals whose residential needs are best met by living with a family member or members. We’ve continued to lend our expertise and in-depth knowledge of Colorado’s Family Caregiver program to help families compare residential options and navigate the details and requirements if they choose this option.
Starting in Autumn 2025, we have also been reaching out to Front Range area high school counselors to provide resources for families of IDD students who are approaching the age of 18. This includes an offer to participate in a webinar to learn about residential options including the details of the Family Caregiver Program.
Community
Helping our Individuals experience, participate in, and contribute to their community is a major component of helping them thrive both personally and in the mainstream world. We continue to build our Supported Community Connections (SCC) program, often adding relatives of IDD Individuals to fill these roles. We have seen Individuals blossom when someone who knows them well is able to tailor activities to their unique interests and needs.
Our newsletters are now posted on our website. Use them as a reference, for links to specific topics, or to try a new recipe! You can find them under the “About Us” tab on the homepage. Our blogs are also on the website, but here are a few from 2025 that I invite you to check out or review.
- Family Caregiving – Keeping Brothers Together – Evergreen Service Providers
- Is Your IDD Child 17 Years Old? Here’s What You Need to Know! – Evergreen Service Providers
- Nutritional and Health Challenges and Solutions for IDD Individuals – Evergreen Service Providers
We are all better people because of our association with the Individuals we serve and with each other. We look forward to continuing our work together and to the joy we find in helping these amazing people thrive.
If you know anyone who has a loved one living with IDD or who may want to explore being a Host Home Provider or Family Caregiver, please suggest that they contact us to learn about opportunities that are available to them through Evergreen Service Providers.
