In 2021, 75% of individuals experiencing homelessness in Colorado’s system (excluding metro Denver) reported at least one disability, and one in five were unhoused. As Colorado’s housing market becomes increasingly out of reach, due to high demand, limited supply, and soaring home prices, those with the fewest resources are often left behind. Now more than ever, innovative housing solutions are essential to addressing the intersection of disability and homelessness.

To further its commitment to “banking for good,” FirstBank has helped finance over $600 million in affordable housing developments throughout Colorado since 2020, helping uplift under resourced communities and providing access to reliable housing opportunities. The bank is proud to support the following developments, which are creating safe and sustainable homes for those living with intellectual, physical, and developmental disabilities: 

Stepping Stone Support Center

The Stepping Stone Support Center in Littleton, Colorado is a dedicated organization providing employment readiness, personal growth, and services to improve the overall well-being of individuals with developmental disabilities. Founded in November 2013 with just four participants, Stepping Stone now serves more than 100 individuals with developmental disabilities, enabling them to live meaningful and productive lives.

Trailhead Community

Founded in 2016 as a sister organization to Stepping Stone Support Center, Trailhead Community is the only community in the U.S. offering independent living for adults with developmental disabilities alongside neurotypical (non-disabled) individuals, creating a truly inclusive place to call home. Today, Trailhead Community is an 83-unit residential complex, geared toward providing loved ones with a Developmental Disability, but still able to function independently. Trailhead identified a gap in support for those who want to lead a “normal” life, and is set to provide a community that features support, safety, accessibility, and independent living for all. Trailhead is also taking it to the next level by encouraging homeownership as a part of their model. Not only can you rent a unit, but you can purchase, using a variety of income variables to include SSI & Disability income, partnered with family funds or other avenues through a traditional lending experience. This opens the doors for their residents to have long-term, sustainable living. 

Tall Tales Ranch

Tall Tales Ranch is developing an inclusive residential community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The Lone Tree, Colorado property will provide homes for 28 residents, including 24 one-bedroom and four two-bedroom units. Tenants will have 24/7 on-site support and direct access to transportation, including the RTD Light Rail and Lone Tree Link.

The community will also feature shared spaces, including a community barn and garden, mobile coffee shop, and  Resource Center offering job training, educational programs, and social opportunities. The barn and café will be open to residents, staff, and the public. The construction of Tall Tales Ranch is expected to be complete in 2027. 

Wellspring and Unity on Park Community

Wellspring Housing and the Douglas County Housing Partnership (DCHP) established Unity on Park Street in January 2008 to create an affordable housing community in Castle Rock, Colorado. It began with four young women with developmental disabilities learning to bake cookies in a private kitchen. Inspired by their success, Wellspring Community created a space where adults with I/DD are empowered to live meaningful lives.

With over 20,000 adults with I/DD in Colorado living with caregivers over 60, Wellspring is helping close a critical gap, offering a supportive environment where individuals can thrive independently. Unity on Park has 42 units, 20 of which are set aside for people with disabilities. Currently, 16 individuals with I/DD call this community home.

Housing, employment, and community-building opportunities are crucial to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities and uplifting the communities we serve. For more information and housing resources, visit the Homeownership page at efirstbank.com.

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Published: August 19, 2025