Empowering Independence: How CPWD is Supporting Coloradans Through SSI/SSDI Benefits and Beyond

Image: A paper has “Supplemental Security Income, SSI” printed on it. A pen sits below the words.

For many people, applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI),  and other benefits can be challenging. Navigating all the paperwork and requirements with accuracy is often more accessible and successful with the support of an expert.CPWD recognizes this, providing technical support to individuals working on benefits applications. Ultimately, benefits go beyond paperwork; they’re important steps in the path to independence, stability, and self-determination.

Thanks to a recent grant awarded by the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office (CDOO) through the Colorado Disability Funding Committee (CDFC), CPWD is expanding our benefits support programs to reach even more individuals across our service area. We’re proud to be part of this important statewide initiative to close service gaps and meet people where they are, especially those who are low-income, navigating complex systems, or facing urgent needs.

The Bigger Picture: Disability and Public Benefits in the U.S.

Image: A man who is in a wheelchair sits in his chair outside. He is wearing an army cap and holds an American flag behind himself.

In the United States, financial assistance is a lifeline for millions of people with disabilities:

• More than 10 million Americans receive SSI or SSDI benefits through the Social Security Administration.

• Nearly 85% of working-age SSI recipients have no income, relying entirely on benefits to survive.

• Among working-age people with disabilities (ages 18–64), more than 25% live in poverty, nearly twice the rate of those without disabilities.

• In Colorado alone, more than 104,000 residents receive SSI or SSDI benefits, many of whom also qualify for Medicaid and other essential support services.

These numbers reflect a reality we see every day at CPWD. The need is vast, and the systems are often difficult to navigate without help. That’s why CPWD offers Benefits Counseling services. 

What is the CDOO and Why Does It Matter?

Established under House Bill 24-1360, the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office was created to ensure the inclusion and integration of people with disabilities in all aspects of public life. CDOO sits at the intersection of policy, accessibility, and collaboration, advising the Governor, aligning efforts across state agencies, and helping guide funding to where it’s most needed.

As of June 3, 2024, CDOO also became the home of the Colorado Disability Funding Committee (CDFC), which raises and distributes funds as authorized by the Laura Hershey Disability Support Act. The Laura Hershey Disability Support Act, named in honor of renowned Colorado disability rights advocate, poet, and activist Laura Hershey, is a one-of-a-kind funding mechanism. The Act created a self-sustaining source of support for organizations that provide services to people with disabilities through a voluntary donation program tied to specialty license plates.

Image: Joe Duran holds his black license plate for his Tesla in front of his home in Arvada on Friday, Dec. 15, 2023. (Photo by Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post)

Here’s how it works: when Coloradans choose the striking black-and-white “Support People with Disabilities” license plate with its bold, minimalist lettering, they’re encouraged to make a voluntary contribution. These donations are pooled and distributed by the Colorado Disability Funding Committee (CDFC) to fund grants for nonprofit organizations across the state working to improve access, independence, and equity for people with disabilities.

It’s a powerful example of grassroots activism becoming long-term infrastructure. Every license plate seen on the road directly contributes to real-world change. CDFC distributes the funds through competitive grants, supporting innovative programs that help Coloradans with disabilities live fuller, more autonomous lives. That’s where CPWD comes in.

How CPWD Is Using the Grant to Expand Support

On July 1, 2025, CPWD was awarded a significant grant from CDOO that increased our capacity to provide benefits assistance services to individuals with disabilities. The grant funds broadly support: 

• Two SSA-certified Non-Attorney Representatives (NARs) who assist individuals through the entire SSI/SSDI application and appeals process, including redeterminations and follow-ups with Social Security to reduce delays and errors.

• One Independent Living Advisor (ILA) who provides application assistance for Medicaid, SNAP, Old Age Pension, Accessible Housing, and more, while also offering Independent Living Skills Training and Peer Support.

• Ongoing benefits counseling and employment navigation support to ensure that people don’t lose benefits while seeking work.

Image: The Ticket To Work logo.

CPWD is also a Ticket to Work provider through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), helping people explore employment opportunities without risking their financial or medical safety nets.

All services are offered at no cost to the consumer.

Learn more about SSI/SSDI benefits services here, and about our other employment services here. 

Why This Work Matters

Benefits assistance is about empowering people to move from survival to stability, and ultimately toward independence and community inclusion. CPWD doesn’t just help people fill out applications and send them on their way; we stay with our consumers through the process and beyond, walking alongside them as they define and pursue their own goals.

Throughout the greater Boulder area and beyond, our team is deeply rooted in Independent Living Philosophy: that people with disabilities have the right to control their own lives, make their own choices, and live with dignity in their community.

Looking Ahead

We are deeply grateful to the CDOO and the CDFC for recognizing the importance of this work and investing in the organizations providing the on-the-ground services to individuals in our community. Their leadership reflects Colorado’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and innovation in how we support our disability community.

As we continue to grow our impact, CPWD remains committed to meeting people where they are and helping them build bridges to independence and living their best lives.