Building Bridges
Wellspring's Transformative Partnership with Regis Jesuit High School
At Wellspring, we’re building a community where everyone has a seat at the table and access to participate in the richness of life. Part of the magic of Wellspring is learning to open ourselves up to the love that Stars have for others and our broader community. And love like this carries with it tremendous potential for change.
“I learned that people with disabilities are just as able as any other person to do things easy or hard.”
-RJHS Student
Over the course of a month, we had the incredible opportunity to partner with students from Regis Jesuit High School as a part of their Ignatian Immersion and Solidarity Program. This experience provided an opportunity for Wellspring participants and the high school students to learn from each other and create friendships. Many of the students who participated in this experience noted having never spent time with people that have disabilities and feeling unsure of what to expect. Spending time at Wellspring with our community, hearts and minds were changed.
“I learned that the Stars are super kind and genuine. I also learned that even though the Stars have disabilities, they are super fun to be around.”
-RJHS Student
This is the second year in a row that we have partnered with Regis’ Ignatian Immersion and Solidarity Program. This program partners with dozens of nonprofit organizations in the Denver metro area to help juniors and seniors experience first-hand that love of God goes hand-in-hand with love of neighbor. Within the context of Wellspring’s God-centered environment, these students and our Stars get to experience both giving and receiving love.
What these high school students experience during their 2-week immersion is something we hope will be true for every member of the Wellspring community. We hope that when people with I/DD are integrated into the broader fabric of society, everyone benefits. Wellspring provides adults with I/DD access to transportation, vocation, life-long education, and residential opportunities so that they can live, work, and love in community. As a result, the entire community is enriched and empowered. A community built on love is kinder and more accessible.
“I learned to treat everyone with love and respect and that people like the Stars have so much more to them.”
-RJHS Student
Staff Highlight
Thomas & Erica
We are so thankful for our dedicated team members who help to make our community shine bright and drive our mission forward. Today, we are so excited to celebrate Thomas (Program Teacher) and Erica (Program Support)! Each of them brings passion, skills, and heart to their days at Wellspring.
Here’s what Program Coordinator, Regina, has to say about Thomas and Erica.
“Erica comes to work and is ready to go. She’s reliable, dependable, and I have come to count on her, and I believe other staff do also. She is a wonderful addition to the Wellspring family; we are fortunate to have her. Erica has a kind, caring, and calm approach which is perfect for Wellspring. Add to that she is creative, willing to do just about anything to help the program if she’s able. She also remembers everything!
“Thomas has introduced some new classes to the STARS and says yes to new experiences. He asks great questions and contributes his ideas to better classes and the program. He’s a true team player. Thomas has a wonderful way with the STARS and is both clear and caring.”
At Wellspring, we see these qualities and contributions daily, but the community has seen it too. Wellspring recently received the voicemail below from a community member, Dee, who saw our Walking class at the Phillip S. Miller Park and was so impressed with Erica and Thomas’ approach and genuine care for the Stars, that she promptly called and left a voicemail to share about her experience.
Wellspring in the News
We were honored to be featured with Castle Rock Chambers’ Citizen of the Year, Steve Peterson from Christian Brother’s Automotive in Castle Rock. If you missed Wellspring and Steve on CBS Colorado news, you can see the video and article by clicking the button below.
Upcoming Events & Important Dates
Bowl-A-Rama Strikes Back
Mark your calendar for Wellspring’s 2nd Annual Bowl-A-Rama Fundraising Event on Saturday, May 4th. May the strikes be with you.
Event Information:
- What: Wellspring’s Annual Peer to Peer Fundraising Event
- When: Saturday, May 4th 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Where: Main Event (64 Centennial Blvd, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129)
Welcome to Wellspring Community Tour
Experience Wellspring! Learn more about the heart of our mission and connect with our community.
Upcoming Tour Dates:
- March 14th
- March 28th
- April 11th
Club 21
Club 21 is a once-a-month social event hosted by Wellspring Community and designed to give adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities a place to socialize, relax and have a great time. Club 21 also gives parents and caregivers a night off! Participants must pre-register and pay.
Graphic Created By Damon