Branching out
A longtime local nonprofit is starting a new chapter. Last week, Community Connections announced it is branching off into two entities to offer specialized services to people with disabilities.
Starting July 1, “Our Own Lives” will provide the majority of direct services previously provided by Community Connections including employment support, in-home support, community access, host homes, day services and respite care. Scott Smith has been named as the new chief executive officer.
Community Connections has been serving people with disabilities and their families across the region since 1985. However, regulatory shifts and a growing need for personalized support made it apparent that a second entity was needed.
Community Connections will continue to offer early intervention for children with developmental delays, family support and case management.
A leader in advocacy for mental health, suicide prevention and social justice, Smith brings more than a decade of experience in behavioral health and human services. "I am beyond honored to join Our Own Lives," Smith said in a press release.
-
- 06/04/2026
- Tougher on trash
- By Missy Votel
-
As human-bear conflicts rise, new state law targets ‘knowingly’ allowing attractants
- Read More
-
- 06/04/2026
- Redefining the business of art
- By Parker Yamasaki / The Colorado Sun
-
Colorado’s new A Corp model helps creatives retain control while attracting investment
- Read More
-
- 05/28/2026
- Quick 'n' Dirty
- By Missy Votel
-
Help for the Demon Bridge, Highway 550 N closure, and fire mitigation falls off
- Read More
-
- 05/28/2026
- Getting crafty
- By Haylee May / Colorado Public Radio
-
Colorado brewers buck national trend by adapting to changing times
- Read More
- Getting gassed
- 06/04/2026
-
Gas prices are once again giving America something to complain about. And while the local beer meisters at Ska Brewing can’t fix the price at the pump, the brewery is offering one small bit of relief: a new light beer that costs one cent less than the price of a gallon of unleaded gas.
Introducing Ska’s newest brew: West’s Easy Light Lager, because “everything else is so hard.”
- Short legs, big party
- 05/28/2026
-
On most days, Tracy Harwood spends her time as a court clerk for the City of Durango. But next Thurs., June 4 – International Corgi Day – she hopes to bring something entirely different to town: short legs, wiggly butts and oversized personalities.
- River cowboy
- 05/21/2026
-
It’s a mash-up made in Westernwear heaven. Sort of. Seems Chaco, the purveyor of the iconic strappy dirtbag river rat footwear, has joined forces with Wrangler, as in tight jeans, big belt buckles, bull riding and snap shirt fame.
- Making plans
- 05/14/2026
-
Wondering what’s up with the old 9-R Admin building at the end of E. 2nd Avenue that was going to be a fire department, then wasn’t going to be a fire department and is now going to be City Hall and the Police Department?The City of Durango will demystify plans for the historic building during a public session Wed., May 20, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Durango Recreation Center.
