Community Connections, a leading nonprofit organization serving people with disabilities across Southwest Colorado, is announcing key milestones in its organizational redesign process, and marking a new chapter of growth and transformation.
Since 1985, Community Connections has proudly served as both a case management agency and direct services provider for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in Archuleta, Dolores, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan counties. As a result of regulatory changes, the organization is currently forming two separate entities, each devoted to meeting the evolving needs of the community.
Starting July 1, Community Connections will transition its direct services programs to a new organization called Our Own Lives, preserving this vital aspect of its work.
Community Connections will continue providing early intervention services for young children and family support for people with disabilities living at home. The agency has also recently expanded its case management services to people of all ages with disabilities, developmental delays and complex needs.
As part of this transformation, Community Connections staff, clients, board members and stakeholders recently participated in a planning process to direct the organization’s future.
A refined vision
Community Connections’ guiding principles have been updated, yet remain rooted in the organization’s longstanding commitment to supporting and advocating for people with disabilities.
The new mission, vision and values statements that have been developed are as follows.
Mission: Community Connections is dedicated to the mission of connecting people with disabilities, developmental delays, and complex needs to the resources they choose to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
Vision: We envision a world where all people fully belong, contribute and thrive.
Values: We support people in reaching their own goals. We create a safe and welcoming space for all. We empower people to be themselves. We advocate for justice. We develop trust through our actions.
A fresh look
As part of this transition, Community Connections also completed a rebranding process, which included the development of a new logo. The organization’s updated look incorporates colors and design elements influenced by the landscape and natural beauty of Southwest Colorado.
A more accessible online presence
Community Connections’ website has undergone a complete overhaul, including improved navigation, ADA-compliant accessibility features, and Spanish language translation capabilities.
“We are excited to announce these important advances as we begin this new chapter for Community Connections,” said Tara Kiene, president and CEO. “This work reflects our ongoing commitment to serving people with disabilities in our community and creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.”
Community Connections invites the community to join in celebrating these milestones. As the organization is currently hosting its annual spring fundraising campaign, community members are encouraged to get involved by visiting the new website to learn more and contribute at communityconnectionsco.org.
