TIMNATH, CO - Media are invited to join us for a socially distant drive-by celebration as a family purchases their dream home all to support the Colorado Initiative for Inclusive Higher Education (IN!), which works with Colorado colleges and universities to help create opportunities for young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to attend college.

The substantial donation would not be possible without a buyer, and after six months of construction, this buyer has stepped forward and will close on the home on Thursday, December 3rd, and will be moving in on Friday, December 4th.  The community will be hosting a drive-by celebration that day to allow supporters of IN! as well as trade partners and employees who have worked on this project to drive by and share in the excitement.

“The cause that the IN! Spiration Home at Trailside supports is near and dear to my family's heart,” said Casey Stopperan, the home’s purchaser.  “A treasured member of our family lives as an adult with Down Syndrome.  At nearly 50 years old, Brady is the eldest of 18 cousins, and his smile, energy, and laughter are contagious.  We love watching him on stage singing with Neil McCoy or listening to him in the broadcast booth announcing Iowa high school football games.  He’s a gift, our family's guiding light, and a perfect example of someone thriving despite the challenges of this genetic disorder.”

Founded in 2014, IN! works with Colorado colleges and universities to help create opportunities for young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to attend college. Historically students with intellectual disabilities have been excluded from higher education due to restrictive entry criteria and lack of on-campus supports.  This year, 20 students from across the state began their collegiate career with assistance from IN!, bringing the program to a total of 72 students state-wide, attending at the University of Northern Colorado, Arapahoe Community College, and University of Colorado Colorado Springs. Further, as a result of these efforts, Colorado saw the very first college graduates this past spring.

“We are honored to participate and know that Casey and his son Easton are moving into this beautiful home at our Trailside on Harmony community.  I think their purchase means so much more to us as a company offering us an opportunity to support such a deserving organization and the young adults it serves,” said Landon Hoover, owner and President of Hartford Homes. “Due to the pandemic, we can’t celebrate the closing on the grand scale as originally planned, but we will be there with Wonderland Homes and IN! to have a socially distanced drive-by celebration on Friday, December 4th, from 12-2 pm to thank the buyers, salute our partners, and to celebrate the wonderful contributions and support that IN! provides to those it serves.”

IN! was founded by educators, disability leaders, students, and families who have a vision for better and more fulfilling career opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Until recently, society’s low expectations coupled with limited opportunities have prevented people with IDD from the benefits associated with higher education. While peers move to the next phase of their lives, students with IDD sit on the sidelines. Consequently, they transition from high school to adult day programs, very low paying jobs, or, in too many cases, simply end up sitting idly at home with limited social outlets. Many individuals live hopelessly below the poverty line and have little prospect of rising above it.

IN! has worked closely with these colleges and universities to welcome these students on campuses, where they can continue their education and preparation for life.  IN!’s work continues even after participants finish their educations, with post-secondary employment support and guidance.