In the 1970s, a nationwide movement began to replace large, isolating institutions with community-based services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
(I/DD). Out of that momentum, a groundbreaking idea took root in Colorado: people with I/DD could live in family homes, surrounded by care and connection.
In 1979, the ARC of Denver funded Colorado’s first host homes, planting the seed that would become Community Living Alternatives (CLA). By 1981, CLA was serving 35 people across four counties. In 1986, we became an independent nonprofit, and soon after we expanded with supported living apartments, employment services, and retirement supports.
➤ Choosing Quality over Quantity
As CLA grew, we made a pivotal decision: to stay small enough to provide the most personal, consistent care possible. Since 1991, we have prioritized quality over quantity — focusing on the unique needs, choices, and voices of the people we serve.
➤ Innovative Programs
Over the years, CLA has launched programs that celebrate the talents, creativity, and individuality of the people we serve. From Positive Images, a public TV show created by and about people with disabilities, to Artists in Bloom and Artists Unlimited, which showcase artistic expression and entrepreneurship, our initiatives highlight inclusion and innovation in action. Our CLASS (Community Living Alternatives Specialized Services) day program further supports these values by helping participants build skills, friendships, and confidence through gardening, cooking, technology, wellness, and more.
(I/DD). Out of that momentum, a groundbreaking idea took root in Colorado: people with I/DD could live in family homes, surrounded by care and connection.
In 1979, the ARC of Denver funded Colorado’s first host homes, planting the seed that would become Community Living Alternatives (CLA). By 1981, CLA was serving 35 people across four counties. In 1986, we became an independent nonprofit, and soon after we expanded with supported living apartments, employment services, and retirement supports.
➤ Choosing Quality over Quantity
As CLA grew, we made a pivotal decision: to stay small enough to provide the most personal, consistent care possible. Since 1991, we have prioritized quality over quantity — focusing on the unique needs, choices, and voices of the people we serve.
➤ Innovative Programs
Over the years, CLA has launched programs that celebrate the talents, creativity, and individuality of the people we serve. From Positive Images, a public TV show created by and about people with disabilities, to Artists in Bloom and Artists Unlimited, which showcase artistic expression and entrepreneurship, our initiatives highlight inclusion and innovation in action. Our CLASS (Community Living Alternatives Specialized Services) day program further supports these values by helping participants build skills, friendships, and confidence through gardening, cooking, technology, wellness, and more.
➤ Today
From our first host homes to our CLASS day program, CLA has always believed in supporting dreams, not just needs. For over four decades, we have created safe, stable homes and inclusive opportunities that empower people with I/DD to live meaningful, connected lives.
Our promise is simple: to keep innovating while staying true to our person-centered values — ensuring that every individual we serve is seen, supported, and celebrated.imagine a world where every person is accepted, respected, and celebrated for their unique contributions to their community.
See The Difference We Make
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