Community Resources

Arapahoe County Adult Protection

Abuse / Neglect Hotline: 303-636-1750

The Adult Protection Services Division serves vulnerable adults who are victims or at-risk of abuse, neglect, self-neglect or financial exploitation. This Division serves individuals age 18 and older who lack sufficient understanding or capacity to make or communicate responsible decisions concerning their affairs, or are unable to perform or obtain services necessary for their health, safety or welfare. If you have concerns that an elderly or at-risk adult is being mistreated or is self-neglecting, please call the 24/7 hotline at 303-636-1750. Your report is anonymous and confidential.

Arapahoe County Child Protection

Abuse / Neglect Hotline: 303-636-1750 or 1-844-CO-4-KIDS

The Child Protection Services Division receives reports of child abuse and neglect and works with families to identify and resolve concerns for children’s safety and wellbeing. If you believe a child is in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1. If you have concerns that a child is being abused or neglected but is not in immediate danger, please call our 24/7 hotline at 303-636-1750 or the statewide hotline at 1-844-CO-4-KIDS. Your report is anonymous and confidential.

Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office

Non-Emergency: 303-795-4711

Emergency: 911

The City of Centennial contracts with the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) for law enforcement services. The ACSO is committed to quality service with an emphasis on integrity, professionalism, and community spirit. The ACSO has earned multiple accreditations and was awarded with the National Sheriff’s Association Triple Crown Award, which goes only to agencies that have received accreditation with the American Correctional Association (ACA), the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), and the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC). The Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office received the Triple Crown Award again in 2017. It is the second agency in the country to receive this designation under three different sheriffs.

Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office Victim Assistance Program

720-874-4038

The Victim Assistance Program is dedicated to providing help to citizens who have been victimized or otherwise traumatized within our community. They provide support and assistance with emotional needs to the victims and their families following a traumatic event. Program members serve as liaison between the victim and the people who are charged with the responsibility of investigating the scene (deputies, investigators or other emergency personnel). If you would like to talk to someone about your victimization, call the Victim Assistance Program at 720-874-4038 for a referral.

Cherry Creek Schools - Bullying Prevention

Bullying includes actions such as making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally, and excluding someone from a group on purpose. In Cherry Creek Schools, we take a proactive approach to preventing bullying by educating students and parents about how to recognize the signs of bullying and how to take action to prevent or stop it from happening.

Littleton Public Schools - Social, Emotional & Behavioral Services

Littleton Public Schools is committed to helping all students develop strong social and emotional skills. This includes building a strong multi-tiered system of support in every school. View information on the various programs, initiatives and procedures supported by the Social, Emotional and Behavior Services Department.

safe2Tell Colorado

1-877-542-7233

Anonymously report anything that concerns or threatens you, your friends, your family or your community. Safe2Tell was founded on the idea that prevention and early intervention is the key to preventing violence and saving lives. The guiding principles of this safety and prevention initiative model include educating young people and school staff on critical issues; encouraging them to play a role in prevention; equipping them with a tangible direct way to report anonymously, while empowering them to make a difference.

South Suburban Parks and Recreation District (SSPRD)

303-798-5131

South Suburban Park and Recreation District (SSPRD) is a regional provider of parks and recreation services for six municipalities south of Denver, including Littleton, Lone Tree, Sheridan, Columbine Valley, Bow Mar, western Centennial and portions of unincorporated Jefferson, Douglas and Arapahoe counties. SSPRD’s mission is to foster healthy living through stewardship of the environment, parks, trails and open space and by providing recreational services and programs. SSPRD offers several programs and classes that promote public safety, including Community First Aid, CPR and AED Training, Women’s Self Defense Workshops, an AARP Smart Driver Course, Quarterly Blood Screenings, year-round swim lessons for all ages, and more. Learn more online at SSPRD's Catalog.

Adolescent Behavioral Health Program - The Medical Center of Aurora

844-556-2012

The Adolescent Behavioral Health Program is committed to providing short-term behavioral health treatment services for adults and seniors, and offers the same, high quality level of care for adolescents between the ages of 11 – 17. Our physician-led, interdisciplinary treatment team of individual/family therapists, behaviorists, social workers, music therapists, recreational therapists, and psychiatric nurses have developed programs that integrate approaches supported by evidence-based cognitive and dialectical behavioral health treatment therapies resulting in a teenage mental health treatment plan that extends into everyday life long beyond the point when treatment ends.

American Psychiatric Association

202-559-3900

The American Psychiatric Association is an organization of psychiatrists working together to ensure humane care and effective treatment for all persons with mental illness, including substance use disorders. Clinical resources, publications, news and advocacy, and relevant information on mental illness are available from this national association.

Arapahoe/Douglas Mental Health

Info & Appointments: 303-730-8858

24/7 Crisis Intervention: 303-730-3303

AllHealth Network provides professional, culturally- inclusive mental health and substance abuse services, including outpatient services such as individual, family, marital and group counseling and psychiatry. AllHealth Network is responsible for mental health programs serving residents of Arapahoe County (not including the City of Aurora) and Douglas County. Many programs are open to residents outside this area, including the insurance-only Turning Points, A Counseling and Psychiatric Practice.

Aurora Mental Health Center

303-617-2300

Aurora Mental Health Center is committed to creating healthy and secure communities by providing the least restrictive service that ensures quality, appropriate, and efficient care. Free, professional help by phone, 24/7, for any mental health and substance abuse issues, including those involving suicide.

Colorado Crisis Services

844-493-8255 (844-493-TALK) or Text TALK to 38255

Colorado Crisis Services provides confidential and immediate help for any mental health, substance use, or emotional concern, 24/7/365. Call 844-493-TALK (8255) or text TALK to 38255 to speak with a trained professional who will provide immediate support and connect you, or someone you know, to further resources. You can also visit www.ColoradoCrisisServices.org to find the walk-in location nearest you.

Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment – Suicide Information and Prevention Website

Colorado Crisis & Support Line: 844-493-8255 (1-844-493-TALK)

Suicide and prevention site offers phone numbers for both suicide prevention lifeline and the Colorado Crisis and Support Line, which connects you to skilled, trained counselor in your area 24/7.

The Lifeline and 988: Lifeline. (Call, text, or chat 988)

988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (known as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). When people call, text, or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary.

Juvenile Assessment Center (JAC)

720-213-1320

The 18th Judicial District Juvenile Assessment Center (JAC) is a nonprofit organization that provides free assessment services for at-risk youth in need of intervention. This community-based program focuses on intervention, comprehensive assessments, and improving access to appropriate services. JAC provides positive alternatives to youth and their families.

Mental Health Colorado

720-208-2220

Mental Health Colorado (MHC) addresses the full range of mental health issues in Colorado. The association strives to improve diagnosis, care and treatment for people of all ages. MHC engages with policymakers, providers, the public, and the press to promote early intervention, expand access to affordable services, and eradicate stigma and discrimination. Our efforts range from the Capitol to the classroom.

MentalHealth.gov

800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK)

MentalHealth.gov provides one-stop access to U.S. government mental health and mental health problems information. MentalHealth.gov aims to educate and guide: The general public; Health and emergency preparedness professionals; Policy makers; Government and business leaders; School systems; and Local communities.

National Alliance on Mental Illness

800-950-6264

The mission of NAMI Arapahoe/Douglas Counties is to build a community of recovery and hope by educating, supporting and advocating for individuals and their families affected by mental illness. Resources available include educational programs, mental health advocacy, a toll free HelpLine, and several awareness events and activities.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. SAMHSA's mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America's communities. They offer information on treatment options, paying for treatment, understanding addition and understanding mental health.

The Second Wind Fund

General Information: 720-962-0706

24-Hour Crisis Support: 1-844-493-TALK (8255)

Second Wind Fund believes that every child and youth at risk of suicide should have access to the mental health treatment they need. They match children and youth at risk for suicide with licensed therapists in their communities. If a financial or social barrier to treatment is present, we pay for up to 12 sessions of therapy from one of our specialized network providers.

South Suburban Parks & Recreation District (SSPRD)

303-798-5131

South Suburban Park and Recreation District (SSPRD) offers several programs and classes for improving mental health, including Couples Workshops, an Essential Oils for Relaxation class, Dementia Caregiver Support Groups, a variety of art, meditation and mindfulness classes, and more. SSPRD prioritizes wellness by offering close-to-home and affordable indoor and outdoor recreation opportunities to a diverse community. Learn more online at SSPRD's Catalog.

Veterans Crisis Hotline

800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK) and Press 1 or Send a text message to 838255

The Veterans Crisis Line is a toll-free, confidential resource that connects Veterans in crisis and their families and friends with qualified, caring VA responders. Veterans and their loved ones may call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, chat online at www.VeteransCrisisLine.net, or send a text message to 838255 to receive free, confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, even if they are not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care. VA also provides support for Service members through the Military Crisis Line. Service members and their families and friends may call and text the Veterans Crisis Line numbers and can chat online at the Military Crisis Line website.

Arapahoe Park and Recreation District (APRD)

303-269-8400

The Arapahoe Park and Recreation District (APRD) is a relatively young park district, but growing along with residential development. The District has developed 22 parks, 15 miles of trails, the Trails Recreation Center, Lookout Park and Pool and the APRD Skate Park. It also maintains over 300 acres of natural areas. The District shares elementary school play fields under a joint-use agreement with Cherry Creek School District at nine in-district elementary school locations.

South Suburban Park and Recreation Department (SSPRD)

303-798-5131

South Suburban Park and Recreation District (SSPRD) offers several opportunities for improving physical health, including aquatics and learn to swim classes, golf, dance classes, including line dancing; yoga, weight training, free equipment orientations, a variety of sports programs and leagues, camps, martial arts, specialty fitness classes, Tai Chi and Yoga for Older Adults, Functional Motion, race series, adaptive recreational programs for individuals with disabilities, and more. Learn more online at SSPRD's Catalog.

Arapahoe County Senior Resources Division

303-738-8080

The Arapahoe County Senior Resource Division offers several resources for seniors, including chore services, homemaker programs, transportation, and assistance for veterans.

Arapahoe/Douglas Works! Workforce Center

303-636-1160

Arapahoe/Douglas Works! Workforce Center is a member of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment’s statewide network of workforce centers, which provide a variety of no-cost services to job seekers and businesses. The workforce center offers an array of tools to support local job-seekers, including resources and workshops for a self-directed job search, one-on-one employment counseling, and training assistance. Connecting Colorado, an online database of statewide job openings and registered job-seekers, is available to facilitate the match between skilled workers and businesses. Arapahoe/Douglas Works! offers free workforce development services to businesses in the metro Denver area, to ensure the region remains economically competitive and boasts an adequately skilled workforce for the future. The Workforce Center is guided by a Workforce Investment Board comprised of local community members.

Arapahoe Libraries

303-542-7279

Arapahoe Libraries serves more than 250,000 people at eight library locations and a library within the Arapahoe County detention center. It brings the library to the community through daycare, school and business visits and even has a Library on Wheels that visits apartment buildings, assisted living centers, area businesses, schools and local events. Arapahoe Libraries offers book clubs, workshops, genealogy resources, computer classes, walking groups, and more.

Centennial 101

303-325-8000

Centennial 101 is an interactive seven-week program to discover how our City works. In just 7 weeks, participants will be involved in fun and engaging lessons while learning how Centennial is unique and finding opportunities to get more involved in our community. Centennial 101 is also an opportunity for us to learn from you. What are your priorities for improving the quality of life for all in Centennial? What do you care about? What are your ideas? We want to know. We will also encourage graduates to serve on one of the City's boards and commissions, where volunteers like you work to improve our community. Enrollment is limited to 30 participants and attendance at all seven sessions is highly encouraged.

Centennial Community Events

303-325-8000

Centennial offers a variety of free community events throughout the year at the award-winning Centennial Center Park, located at 13050 E. Peakview Ave. 

Centennial Senior Commission

303-325-8000

The City of Centennial values senior citizens and benefits from having an open forum for seniors to discuss issues affecting them. Since 2010, the Centennial Senior Commission has encouraged older adults' involvement in community issues by, among other things: • Advising the City Council on matters affecting seniors; • Serving as a forum for the expression of ideas, needs, concerns and goals relating to community issues, particularly as they may affect seniors; • Offering hands-on experience and learning by and for seniors of our community; • Enlisting community-wide participation in resolving senior concerns; and • Providing senior opportunities to participate with other citizens in activities and programs that benefit all of the citizens of Centennial. Applications for the Senior Commission are available every June.

Centennial Youth Commission

303-325-8000

The Centennial Youth Commission was formed by City Council in July 2003 to provide a voice for the City’s youth. The Commission is composed of eleven teens from the City of Centennial, ranging in age from 13 to 18. The Youth Commission meets twice a month and participates in City-wide events, develops community programs, performs community service projects and participates in the policy-making process. This year the Commission has been very busy in the Centennial community. The Centennial Youth Commission meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of every month. Meetings begin at 7 p.m. at the Centennial Civic Center. Applications for the Youth Commission are available every August.

Resources for Older Adults

303-866-5563

The Colorado Department of Human Services and the State Unit on Aging offer several resources for older adults, including Adult Protective Services, aging and disability resources, Veterans Community Living Centers and more.

South Suburban Park and Recreation District (SSPRD)

303-798-5131

South Suburban Park and Recreation District (SSPRD) offers several community programs and classes, including art classes, recreational and sports programs and leagues, educational classes like Lunch and Learns; Heal your Feet, which offers foot massage and reflexology; camps, race series, Touch-A-Truck events, concerts, free yoga in the park series, Yappy Hour (where dogs rule the Holly Pool!), concerts, and more. Tots through seniors can engage in a variety of programs to help expand their mind, build strong bodies, and make meaningful connections. Licensed preschools at two recreation centers; a robust summer camp program and day camps when school is not in session for kids up to age 14 are offered. Additionally, SSPRD’s Youth Commission gives teens an opportunity to volunteer in the community and learn about the parks and recreation industry. Everything from ballet and tap, arts and crafts, pottery, yoga, hip hop dance and youth theater, plus year-round swim lessons are available for the younger set. Our Active Adults program offers programs for those 55+ to connect with peers through monthly Lunch and Learn programs. Programs at Goodson Recreation Center include Line Dance, Low Vision and Dementia Caregiver Support Groups and Heal Your Feet, which provides foot massage and reflexology. The Active Adults Trips and Tours program includes hikes and visits to local museums, art galleries, theaters and more. South Suburban’s free Healthy Living Expo showcases local health and wellness resources. Learn more online at SSPRD's Catalog.

Aligned with the City’s mission to provide exceptional service to the community, following are programs, services and resources that provide offerings in support of older adults locally and regionally.

Arapahoe County Services

The Arapahoe County Veterans Service Office is staffed by Federally Accredited Veteran Services Officers who assist Arapahoe veterans and family members with preparation and presentation of claims for VA benefits and access to other VA resources and services. There is no fee for services. 

Arapahoe Library District Services

Arapahoe Libraries offers home-delivery book and audiovisual services; caregiving books and resources; as well as books, brain games, movies, documentaries and music that are available online. Additionally, Older Adult Services Librarians are available to meet one-on-one and assist with accessing library resources. Call 303-LIBRARY or visit arapahoelibraries.org/older-adults for more information.

Food Resources

Arapahoe County’s food assistance information site - Phone: 303-738-8080 

TLC Meals on Wheels - Meal delivery west of I-25. Phone: 303-798-7642

Volunteers of America Meals on Wheels - East of I-25 in Arapahoe County.  303-297-0408 or leave a voice message after hours at 303-294-0111 and #5 at phone prompt. (Eastern Plains 303-731-4813)

Caregiving and Respite Care

http://denverregion.co.networkofcare.org/aging/

https://drcog.org/programs/area-agency-aging

The Time is Now | Caregiving Checklist(PDF, 8MB)  - This a checklist consisting of six different categories provides helpful tips and considerations to help you or a loved one prepare for aging. 

Protecting and Searching for Wandering Persons

Project Lifesaver - An application-based program through the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Department where the wanderer is fitted with a tracking bracelet.  The Arapahoe Sheriff’s Department searches for any wanderer wearing the bracelet. Contact the Sheriff’s Department at 720-874-3804 for more information and to apply.

Medical Insurance

Medicare 

Medicaid

State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) - for questions about Medicare and Medicaid

Help with Buying Prescriptions 

Colorado Peak (State of Colorado) - apply for assistance with food, medical, cash and child care. https://coloradopeak.secure.force.com/ or Arapahoe County Human Services 303-636-1170. Low income seniors may be eligible for Medicaid to assist with the cost of prescriptions or they may also be eligible for low income subsidies that allow Medicaid to pay for the Medicare premium currently being deducted from their SS check which effectively increases income.

Low Vision Services

Colorado Center for the Blind - offers independent living classes for seniors with vision problems and they offer training in technology. 

Trusted Health/Medical Internet Sites

Healthfinder - The United States government’s site for health topics and organizations.

U.S. Department of Agriculture - Food and Nutrition Information Center

Following are sites for health education and caregiving support. Only non-profits are listed. We suggest that you search trusted health/medical web sites for specific disease support groups and/or information to discuss with your medical professional. Within the following internet links is information that is helpful to many different health and caregiving situations.

Alzheimer's and Dementia

Creative Care Cafe at Koelbel Library - Caretaking can be an exhausting and lonely task. The Creative Care Café offers the opportunity for social support and fun! Each session will consist of a creative activity (art, music, and storytelling) with an emphasis on the present, not the past. Afterward there will be time for visiting, support, learning about resources and refreshments!

Baylor University: How to Identify and Address Apathy Caused by Dementia - Examine how apathy can be caused by dementia present in senior adults. Discover the three types of apathy that may be linked to dementia: Affective, Behavioral, and Cognitive Apathy and view information on signs to pay attention to, along with tips and strategies to help seniors through the experience.

Cancer

American Cancer Society - Education, support and treatment, research.   Resources are available for lodging, workshops, transportation, and other services and products for cancer patients, survivors and loved ones. Contact: (866) 500-3272

Education

University of Colorado – Denver/Anschutz Campus: Offers tuition-free classes to Seniors (60 years and older) who reside in the metro area.

Arapahoe Community College: Offers a variety of programs geared to senior (50 years and older).

University of Denver: Offers seniors (60 years and older) to audit select undergraduate courses for a fee of $100 per course.

Financial/Legal/Fraud Assistance

Tips from the Senior Commission on Preventing Senior Fraud(PDF, 14KB)

Arapahoe County Department of Human Services: Offers financial assistance and protective services to children, families and elderly and disabled adults in our community. Phone: (303) 636-1130

DU Student Law Office: (303) 871-6140

Arapahoe County Department of Human Services Adult Protection Unit: Supports at-risk adults susceptible to abuse or self-neglect. Phone: 303-636-1750

Arapahoe County Property Tax Exemptions

Health and Wellness

The South Metro Medical Equipment Loan Closet: provides used durable medical equipment to persons age 18 and over in need in the south metro area of Denver. To be eligible, applicants must live in the South Metro Denver Area; provide identification; have a short-term need to borrow some piece of durable medical equipment that the Loan Closet has in-stock; agree to return the piece of equipment when they are finished using it; consider making a monetary donation for the piece(s) of equipment borrowed; sign a waiver of liability release; and accept the piece of equipment for the purpose it is intended to be used. 

Housing

AARP HomeFit Guide(PDF, 2MB) : The following link is to the HomeFit Guide developed by AARP. This guide addresses a number of safety issues faced by older adults on a room-by-room basis throughout your home and the ways in which the home can be made safer.

Arapahoe County Weatherization Division: Installs free energy conservation measures and energy efficient appliances in low income homes. To determine eligibility and obtain an application call 303-636-1982.

Social Services

Arapahoe County Department of Human Services: Offers several financial assistance programs for elderly and disabled including aid to needy and disabled, food assistance general assistance, long term care, low income energy assistance, and old age pension for residents 60+ with little or no income. For detailed information on each of these programs and application information call 303-636-1170.

Network of Care:  A comprehensive, community based website to help you age successfully. Services include: a) Easy to use service directory for the Denver metro area, b) library of unbiased, evidence-based information on more than 40,000 health topics  c) electronic Personal Health Record to manage your medical info online d) Directory of Assisted Devices to assist in independent living.

Arapahoe County Veterans Services: Assists residents who served in the armed forces to obtain any and all benefits for which they may be eligible. Phone: 303-738-8045.

Transportation

Arapahoe County Senior Transportation Program: To make a trip reservation, call 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. three business days in advance Monday through Friday at 303-235-6972 for appointments. First Ride customers are encouraged to call Senior Resource Center for their transportation services. When you call please have the name of rider, pick-up address, drop-off address, time of appointment and emergency contact’s phone number ready. Please notify Seniors’ Resource Center if your appointment is cancelled.

DRCOG Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC): Information and Assistance, Options Counseling | 303-480-6700 |Toll-free outside Denver: 1-866-959-3017