Since 1948, Laradon has empowered children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities so they can embrace possibility and reach their full potential.
How big of an impact did Laradon make in Fiscal Year 2023?
YOUTH PROGRAMS:
ADULT PROGRAMS:
“At Laradon he just blossomed. He did his ‘Meals on wheels’, he rode in the van, he did activities. I loved hearing all the things that he did. His personality just shone through when he got to Laradon. You got to see him for who he was." - Tami, mother of Laradon participant
"I admire the Laradon staff. They always took such good care of my nephew. They helped him with everything he needed and wanted. I'm so thankful that they made such a nice life for him."- Lois S., aunt of Laradon participant
"I want to thank Laradon for all they have done for me!" - Dennis C., Host Home participant
“When I met Paul 20 years ago, I was a young man and responsibility was big. Paul kind of raised me to be the man I am today. I am more thankful for Paul being in my life than he may be for me being in his,” Roger shares. “Being a Host Home Provider taught me so much and helped me become responsible for another individual… for their doctors’ appointments, their money— all those different things. I tell Paul sometimes and I tell the staff this sometimes, but Laradon and Paul probably saved my life.” - Roger, a Host Home Provider
“Don’t be afraid to take in a family member,” Linda advises others who may find themselves in a similar situation. “It might not be for everyone, but it was the perfect fit for us. There’s so much joy in seeing someone you love smile, knowing you’re making their world a little better,” Linda, a Laradon Family Caregiver
Laradon’s mission is to empower children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live their best lives.
When Joseph and Elizabeth Calabrese's sons were denied admission to public school because of their developmental disabilities, Joe Calabrese said, "If no one will take my sons, by golly, I'll open my own school."
The Calabrese's invested their life savings into establishing the first school in the Rocky Mountain region for children with developmental disabilities. In 1948 Laradon, which is named after the Calabrese children, Larry and Donald, opened its doors to three enrollments in a renovated home on Federal Boulevard in Denver, Colorado.
The Calabrese's had a vision that that if people with disabilities were given the same rights, privileges, and opportunities as those without disabilities they could realize their full potential, contribute to their communities in their own unique ways, and become valued members of society.
In the 1940's, there were little, if any, services available to children with developmental disabilities and the news quickly spread that there was finally a place for special needs children to receive an education and training. For this reason, Laradon quickly outgrew the original home on Federal Boulevard. In 1951, Laradon moved to its current location at 5100 Lincoln Street in the abandoned Globeville school building.
In the beginning, Laradon only provided education and training to children, but as these children grew into adulthood, Laradon expanded its services to include adults with special needs.
The vision of the Calabrese's still drives Laradon's mission and goals today. We continue to grow and expand services and programs to reach as many people with special needs as possible, giving each individual the same rights, privileges, and opportunities as those without disabilities.
Laradon serves nearly 700 individuals throughout the spectrum of age and ability, in 5 unique programs. Laradon's comprehensive services and broad array of programs provide each participant with the highest caliber of training, therapy and support so that they can be successful in reaching their full potential and thrive in a dynamic world.
Organization name
Laradon Hall Society for Exceptional Children and Adults
other names
Laradon, Laradon Hall Society
1948
Tax id (EIN)
84-0412621
Category
Human Services
Organization Size
Large Organization
Colorado State Tax Credits
Colorado Enterprise Zone Credit
Address
5100 Lincoln StreetDenver County, CO, US