List of Disability Services in Boulder, Colorado
Many services provide support with independent living and inclusion for individuals with disabilities in Boulder, CO. These services assist people with disabilities in overcoming barriers in everyday life, such as finding employment.
Understanding what programs are out there is the first step for an individual living with a disability to feel empowered to take on life's challenges with confidence. Whether you have a disability or know someone in the Boulder community who has one, this list of disability resources will help you find the support you need.
1. Accessible Boulder
Accessible Boulder is a city-wide effort to improve access to public spaces. This initiative advocates for changes in Boulder to make it a more inclusive city for everyone. It's backed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provides a range of resources for residents and visitors with disabilities who wish to spend time in Boulder.
Accessible services and resources highlighted by Accessible Boulder are:
ADA-compliant hiking trails and outdoor activities for hikers using wheelchairs, walkers, and scooters.
List of sensory trails that accommodate visually impaired individuals to connect with nature.
Accessible public transit that accommodates wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, and permits service animals.
List of "things to do in Boulder" where dining, restrooms, and parking are ADA accessible.
The City of Boulder leads with its commitment to inclusive recreation programs and accessible outdoor spaces, making it an excellent place for people who use mobility aids to live, visit, and explore. If you are planning to visit Boulder and use a wheelchair, a local power wheelchair rental will allow you to navigate the various accessible destinations in the Boulder area with ease.
2. Center for People With Disabilities
The Center for People With Disabilities (CPWD), based in Boulder, is on a mission to assist people with disabilities in overcoming obstacles and living healthy and independent lives. It provides resources and information for the general public (of all ages) living with certain impairments.
CPWD offers the following services:
Independent living advisors for any individual with a disability who wishes to make their own choices and live more independently.
Independent living skills training for those who are visually impaired or blind and reside in Adams, Boulder, Broomfield, Jefferson, Gilpin, and Weld Counties.
Peer support groups that allow any person with a disability to share their experiences, offer advice, and learn from others in the same disability community.
Support for individuals with disabilities in transitioning from nursing homes back into the community, enabling them to live more independently.
Help youth (high school graduates) find more independence through employment and other activities.
Assist people with disabilities to find reasonable accommodations, employment, and get off social security benefits (SSI/SSDI).
Assist veterans who need at-home assistance.
Help individuals with disabilities advocate for themselves and educate them about their rights.
Offer programs on disability etiquette that provide people with disabilities the tools needed to foster inclusivity in their communities.
3. Boulder Housing Partners
Boulder Housing Partners offers support services for seniors and people with disabilities living in Boulder to help them find safe and affordable housing. This program offers various options for seniors aged 55 to 62 and individuals with disabilities.
Apartment homes are located throughout Boulder. They offer studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units with free Wi-Fi, thoughtfully renovated interiors, and amenities such as in-home washers and dryers. Each apartment also provides a "resident service coordinator" to connect residents with local resources and community events.
These apartment communities are available for income-qualified adults and people with disabilities. Criteria for qualifying to live in one of these apartments may change. Check the website for up-to-date information.
4. University of Colorado Boulder
The University of Colorado Boulder's Center for Disability and Access is located on campus in Boulder. It is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for individuals with disabilities and offers services to students, staff, faculty, and visitors.
Some of the support offered by the Center for Disability and Access includes:
Academic support: Special accommodations such as note-taking, minimal distraction rooms for taking tests, and alternative formats such as Braille or course materials that are screen-reader accessible.
Community spaces: A flexible and welcoming space for studying, workshops, presentations, and building community.
Employment accommodations: Support and special consideration are given to qualified persons with certain disabilities to perform the essential functions of a position at the university.
Service and assistance animals: Recognition that certain individuals with particular types of disabilities will require animal assistance while on campus.
Thrive With Disability Services in Boulder
Both long-time residents, recent arrivals, and visitors with disabilities should have access to disability services to aid in their independence. Knowing where to turn for support is key.
Here is a summary of the top disability services in Boulder, CO:
Accessible Boulder: Provides resources where persons with disabilities can hike, dine, and spend time exploring Boulder, the same way a non-disabled person would.
Center for People with Disabilities: Offers a range of services such as veteran care, disability awareness and advocacy, and transition services for those looking for more independent living.
Boulder Housing Partners: Provides accessible housing for seniors and persons with disabilities who are income-qualified. These spaces include affordable housing, community spaces, and free Wi-Fi.
University of Colorado Boulder: Offers a Center for Disability and Access to assist the students, staff, and visitors with disabilities. Fosters an inclusive environment with services such as academic and employment support.
Boulder is a small but diverse city that is very inclusive of individuals with disabilities. It's a great place to reside for those seeking community and an environment that empowers people with disabilities to live thriving and independent lifestyles. If you live in another part of the state or need a service type that is not listed here, be sure to check out our list of Colorado Disability Programs and Resources for Support.