(Un)Hidden: Colorado's Push To Include, Educate And Employ People With Intellectual Disabilities

College seniors are wrapping up their final semester while figuring out what to do next. This includes a group of students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley. They will be the first to graduate from UNC's inclusive higher education program.

In this two-part series, Colorado Sun reporter Erica Breunlin and KUNC reporter Stephanie Daniel examine how UNC’s GOAL program is preparing these students for a job and to lead independent lives.

Education

UNC Program Prepares Students With Intellectual, Developmental Disabilities For Lasting Independence

Erica Breunlin, The Colorado Sun

Five years ago, the University of Northern Colorado launched an inclusive education program that prepares students with intellectual and developmental disabilities for careers and independent living while giving them a full college experience. The first class of graduates will make the leap from college to career this spring. The architects of the program hope to continue growing it and reach more students with disabilities, even as financial hurdles loom ahead.
Education

Colorado's Inclusive Higher Ed, Employment Programs Help People With Cognitive Disabilities Secure Competitive Jobs

Stephanie Daniel

A 2018 American Community Survey from the U.S. Census Bureau estimated 37% of Coloradans with cognitive disabilities were employed. But many have since lost their jobs due to COVID-19. To help this group find and keep jobs in the general workforce, the state is investing in inclusive higher education and workforce programs.