Background Statement
F.R.I.E.N.D.S. of Broomfield, Inc. began in 1998 as a grass-roots parent network, which wanted to better the lives of their children with developmental disabilities. The name of the organization was chosen because it reflected the values of the organization. F.R.I.E.N.D.S. is an acronym for Fun, Recreation, Inclusive Experiences, Networking and Discovering the Spirit. The initial goal of the organization was to develop recreational opportunities in the Broomfield area for adults with developmental disabilities. This was achieved by establishing a Broomfield Special Olympic program in the fall of 1998, and in 2000, a Therapeutic Recreation program that offered activities through the city's recreation department.
F.R.I.E.N.D.S. became a recognized 5-1(c)(3) charitable organization in 2002 with the mission to "Enrich the lives of our F.R.I.E.N.D.S. with developmental disabilities and their families by creating opportunities for participation in every aspect of community life.". October, 2005, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. officially began with F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Unlimited program, a community access/day program serving 6 adults. In addition to the day program, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Night Out, a twice monthly evening social event, was initiated. In May 2008, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. established F.R.I.E.N.D.S. On My Own, an interactive independent apartment living program, and in 2010 expanded services to include comprehensive residential supports through various models within the F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Independent Living Program. In 2015 F.R.I.E.N.D.S. established its first Supported Employment program assisting participants with skills assessments, interviewing, job development and one on one job coaching and support. To date F.R.I.E.N.D.S. has successfully employed over a twenty two individuals in meaningful and gainful jobs in the community. Most recently, in 2018, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. acquired another non-profit organization providing extended travel, further expanding the popular Social program offerings.
Since its inception, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. has served over 250 individuals across all its programs; each providing opportunities for participants to create new or enhance existing life skills, making their life as fulfilling as possible, while also developing a social network of peers and natural community supports.
F.R.I.E.N.D.S. of Broomfield, Inc. continues to contribute to the greater community through involvement with City Council and the establishment of a new county and a single community centered board agency for Broomfield, local high school transitions, local churches, civic projects (sensory parks, affordable housing and emergency response efforts) as well as volunteerism. F.R.I.E.N.D.S. receives continuous support from the City and County of Broomfield, the Broomfield Community Foundation, the Broomfield Rotary Clubs, the Nativity Knights of Columbus, various businesses, and generous donors throughout the community. With this support and state funding, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. of Broomfield is able to continue to serve adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and create more opportunities for participation and contribution to the greater community.