TALKS 11: Unmasked: How COVID-19 Impacted people with Developmental Disabilities

Unmasked: How COVID-19 Impacted People with Developmental Disabilities (DD) was a project that explored the perspectives and experiences surrounding individuals with developmental disabilities and the professionals in their lives during the global pandemic. Through interviews, this project brought together diverse perspectives to shed light on the multi-layered challenges and responses faced by this community including a school educator, an DD advocate, a person who identifies as having a developmental disability, and a community organization. "Unmasked" showcases resilience and paints a picture of the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing efforts even after the pandemic has ended to address the unique needs of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Why you should listen

• Hear from those connected to individuals with IDD, offering a perspective on challenges and triumphs.
• Gain insight into the challenges faced by individuals with DD and their support networks following the pandemic.
• Discover ongoing post-pandemic efforts and insights into addressing the needs of the community.
• Understand how the public health crisis intersected with the lives of people with IDD, contributing to broader discussions on inclusivity and social support for the future.

Who should listen

• People with IDD, their families, friends, caregivers, and IDD support providers and professionals.

The podcast features

• An Advocacy Perspective: Tom Walsh, an Individual Advocate at The Arc of Aurora. The Arc of Aurora is a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advocating for and on behalf of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as their families.
• An Educator's Perspective: Stacie Colebert, a school psychologist for the public school system who works with students with developmental and other disabilities, as well as students without disabilities.
• A Self-Advocate's Perspective: Vicki Spillane, a woman who self-identifies as having a developmental disability.
• A Community Disability Organization's Perspective: Matt VanAuken, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer at Developmental Pathways. Developmental Pathways is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and serves as a designated Case Management Agency (CMA) for long-term care services.

This series was made possible through support Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council.