If you were a parent of a child with special needs, what kind of needs would you, as a family, have?

The Resource Exchange (TRE) is a Colorado non-profit organization that has a wealth of programs and information tailored to the individual family. Its mission is: “The Resource Exchange builds independence for people with developmental disabilities.” It is a Community Centered Board (CCB) mandated by Colorado statute to provide services to individuals who have a developmental disability. With its Early Intervention (EI) services starting at birth through such services as Case Management and Supported Living Services (SLS), TRE can provide families support, assistance, and guidance to build a customized plan through the life span.

This year marks its 50th anniversary assisting numerous families; now in El Paso, Teller and Park Counties. Beginning with only 85 children and adults it has currently grown to 3,300 in 2014. TRE reports, “We are driven by the core values of Respect, Integrity, Partnership, Excellence, and Accountability.” TRE reports that the organization recognizes each individual life is important and says it never gives up.

TRE Leadership and Staff were part of writing the 3rd Edition of Medical Care for Children and Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Across the Lifespan, to be published in late 2014 by Springer Publishing, Berlin, Germany. Many of the programs at TRE have seen such positive results that they are being modeled internationally for people of the world who have a disability. Additionally, they are heading a National Research Project through the National Institute on Developmental Disability Research with the University of Illinois at Chicago and University of Alabama at Birmingham to promote wellness in people with developmental disabilities via diet and exercise.

A Wide Scope of Services to Help the Whole Family:

Community Coordination

As a CCB, TRE offers families “case management” which pair’s families with programs and other resources in the community to foster the independence of their family member with special needs. These programs are catered to enhance the lives of the person and family as well.

Community Resource Navigation

Also catered to the individual, assists through the confusing process of Social Security Claims, Long-Term Care, as well as meeting other medical and/or recreational needs of the person with a disability.

New Heights Behavioral Health

Is an important new piece to the disability puzzle that TRE has added into their repertoire. Offering a gamut of therapy services it can serve a wide variety of behavioral health issues that people may face on top of their disability.

Break Time

Is a respite service for children with disabilities, as well as their siblings, “giving the parents a complete rest” on planned Friday nights and Saturday afternoons in Colorado Springs and Woodland Park. TRE accepts children from 3 months to 21 years and the charge is only $10.00 for each family, yet they will not turn you away for an ability not to pay. A registered nurse, an experienced behavior specialist, and other professional staff supervise the children. Also, the children receive “one-on-one care and attention from motivated local university students: UCCS, the Air Force Academy, and PPCC”.

Early Intervention

Is a service for families that have concerns about their child’s development from birth to three years of age or that already have a diagnosis. It provides training for the family, as well as services for the child. More information can be found at: www.eicolorado.org. It is also important to note that your child may be eligible for services if you are an adult with a disability. It is well known that the best thing for your child is an early diagnosis as possible.

If any of the above can help your family and improve your quality of life then do not hesitate to reach out and begin your journey through The Resource Exchange. With wellness and health the focus of your family you can see your family member that has a disability flourish. As a 501(c)(3) this is also a wonderful, and groundbreaking cause to give to.

HOW TO GET SUPPORT: TRE is the entry point for people with developmental disabilities to receive services. The first step is to complete an application including required eligibility determination documentation.

418 South Weber Street || Colorado Springs, CO 80903 || Main: 719-380-1100 || Early Intervention: 719-577-9190