Denver, Colorado—Recently, AdvocacyDenver was awarded a $30,000 grant from the Daniels Fund to support its core program, individual advocacy.  AdvocacyDenver features seven advocates who provide individual, technical, and referral-based advocacy assistance to individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families in Denver County.  

Advocates work alongside clients to gain access to quality supports and resources while navigating complex systems, such as health care, education, employment, and housing.  With the support from advocates, individuals with I/DD and their families develop strong self-advocacy skills, empowering them to improve the quality of their own lives.

For 2011, AdvocacyDenver estimates it will have taken on 200 new clients through its referral and intake process for advocacy requests providing them with a wide range of assistance and resources for various advocacy issues.  Among all of these clients, AdvocacyDenver anticipates addressing an estimated 275 unique advocacy issues through the end of 2011.

Advocate Alexandra Andrews says, “AdvocacyDenver receives requests from a very high number of individuals that need assistance and guidance in varying fields.  This grant will bring us closer to meeting their needs.”

Bill Daniels, a pioneer in cable television known for his kindness and generosity to those in need, established the Daniels Fund to provide grants and scholarships in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. For more information, please visit www.danielsfund.org