The Nurturing Impact of Denver's Giving Tree: Exploring the Mill Levy Program's Community Support
Updated Aug 14, 2024
Zephrine taking a mental health break and pictures on the Denver High Line Canal by herself thanks to caregiver support in the form of respite. #HealingOnTheHighLine #HighLineHealing #Burnout #CaregiverBurnout #Neurodiversity #SupportNetworks #FlourishWithZee
In Shel Silverstein's classic tale, The Giving Tree, we witness the story of a tree that selflessly gives everything it has to support and nurture a young boy through every season his life. A story many parents and caregivers can understand and are burnt out from.
Enter Rocky Mountain Human Services (RHMS) Mill Levy Program “Supporting Denver residents withI/DD from birth through the lifespan by connecting them with community resources and wrap-around services to help them live healthy and fulfilling lives.”
The complicated narrative of The Giving Tree beautifully parallels the mission and impact of the Denver Mill Levy Program, which provides comprehensive support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. Like the Giving Tree, the Denver Mill Levy Program stands as a pillar of support, offering resources, care, and opportunities for growth and fulfillment.
“Trees Giving” -Image taken while on a mental health break, made possible thanks to respite support. #HealingOnTheHighLine #HighLineHealing #Burnout #CaregiverBurnout #Neurodiversity #SupportNetworks #FlourishWithZee
A Lifeline for Families
The Denver Mill Levy Program is truly a lifeline for many families (like ours), offering tailored assistance that encompasses both essential needs and enriching experiences. The program's multifaceted approach ensures that individuals with I/DD and their loved ones receive the support they need to thrive.
Basic Necessities: ensures access to basic necessities such as housing, healthcare, and nutrition.
Caregiver Support: provides respite and training for caregivers, allowing them to recharge and continue their vital work with renewed energy and skills.
Community Engagement: facilitates community engagement through recreational activities, day programs, and social events, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion.
Building a Compassionate Community
The Denver Mill Levy Program exemplifies the power of a comprehensive support systems. By addressing the diverse challenges faced by individuals with I/DD and their families, the program fosters a compassionate community where everyone is valued and supported. These initiatives alleviate immediate pressures and pave the way for lasting well-being and personal growth.
Staying Connected and Resourced
Get connected and explore the resources that may be available in your community. Subscribe to RMHS’s Resource Newsletter: The Source and visit their resource page.
What to Expect from the Source Newsletter:
A central hub of Colorado resources that may provides food, shelter, and other community supports
A rotating selection of curated resources
Aiming to reduce information disparity
Connects all members of the Colorado community with resources
Helps everyone thrive
We are committed to fostering meaningful conversations and exchanging ideas on supporting parents and caregivers, underscoring their dedication to enriching the community positively. By nurturing and standing by one another, we aim to cultivate a community as caring and generous as the tree in Shel Silverstein's tale, without overburdening parents and caregivers. Denver voters have continuously supported a one mill property tax levy since 2003 to assist Denver residents with I/DD, enabling initiatives like the 2024 Mill Levy Community Forum. Thank you for cultivating and amplifying the spirit of the giving tree.
We appreciate your ongoing interest and support. Let's continue to work towards a future where every individual is valued and supported.
Remember to take three deep breaths and be well, dear hearts.
Zephrine
This content was made possible thanks to funding from Colorado Developmental Disability Council CDDC
For the latest updates from CDDC, you can explore their blog.