Colorado Initiative for Inclusive Higher Education

November 01, 2018

What YOU Need to Know

The Colorado Initiative for Inclusive Higher Education (IN!) is a nonprofit organization working to create fully inclusive college opportunities for Colorado students with intellectual disabilities “to foster academic growth, social development, and career advancement.”

Nationally, students with disabilities who are completing inclusive college programs are getting better jobs, higher wages, and achieving greater independence – it is a paradigm shift, showing promising results.

Currently three Colorado colleges have programs for students with intellectual disabilities:

University of Northern Colorado: GOAL (Go On and Learn) Program

University of Colorado at Colorado Springs: Office of Inclusive Services

Arapahoe Community College: Elevate at ACC

Students can apply to the program(s) of their choice through each school individually.

Within each program students are provided additional academic and social support through person centered planning, peer mentors, and the school’s office of disability services.

The programs require a high level of engagement on the part of the student. Beyond being dedicated to their studies (3 courses/semester), students are expected to engage in paid student employment, participate in clubs or campus activities that interest them, and create a personal portfolio. Check out the IN! website to learn more.

Funding

Much like typical college experiences, students will need a variety of funding sources. They may be able to access support from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) to cover some of the cost of college. DVR stated: “Services are very individualized, so families are encouraged to discuss available supports with their counselor.”

Additionally, Colorado programs are in the process of obtaining their Comprehensive Transition Program certification, which will open up the opportunity to gain Federal Financial Aid, Pell Grants and Work Study positions.

Learn more on IN!’s funding options page!

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