Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Douglas County will soon have new resources for independent living thanks to a partnership with Wellspring Community and funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
During a regular business meeting Tuesday, Oct. 11, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners approved a $6.4 million contract to purchase property in Castle Rock for housing for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in partnership with Wellspring Community.
Wellspring Community and Douglas County announced the partnership earlier this year to create a housing solution in Douglas County for adults with I/DD. Douglas County will use ARPA funding to purchase the building, and Wellspring will provide services.
The new property – at 884 Park St. in Castle Rock – is directly adjacent to Wellspring’s main facility. The plan is for Wellspring to convert that existing structure into 42 apartment units, where adults with I/DD can live independently with onsite staff providing oversight and support 24/7. This new facility and related programs will also allow Wellspring to leverage other funding. The goal is for Wellspring to partially reimburse the County.
“Wellspring is thrilled to partner with the County Commissioners on this project,” said Nicole DeVries, Wellspring Executive Director. “The housing options available to adults with I/DD in Douglas County have been limited. Of the families we serve through Wellspring, 70% have no viable housing option for their loved one with I/DD if they are no longer able to provide direct care, and 85% of them are relying on state funding to pay for this care. Through this venture, adults with I/DD can experience the dignity of a place to call their own, with support around them so they can thrive in a safe and secure environment.”
“The citizens of Douglas County have made it clear that supporting persons with I/DD is a high priority. Ensuring that there is a greater physical presence in this County that delivers effective services will help accomplish this goal,” said Douglas County Commissioner and Board Chair Abe Laydon on behalf of the full Board.
About Wellspring: Wellspring Community is a 501(c)3 nonprofit located in Castle Rock, CO. Wellspring was founded to meet the needs of adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities—or STARS (because they are the stars of the Wellspring story). Today, over 100 STARS from 5 different counties participate in Wellspring’s day program, which focuses on supporting the STARS as they develop social, emotional, intellectual, and job-related skills
Media Contacts:
Wellspring Community
Peter Barber, Development Director
303-660-1935
[email protected]
Douglas County
Wendy Manitta Holmes, APR, Director, Communications and Public Affairs
303-660-7358
[email protected]