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All the Twins at Support, Inc.

by Information & Resources

Greetings from the Intake Team! We hope you’re enjoying a safe summer so far with the cooler temperatures.

We have onboarded some wonderful families and people receiving services in 2025. The Intake Team feels so grateful for everyone we’ve encountered in the last several months.

When Cindy learned of twin girls needing placement, Emmi and Charlette, she knew right away that she wanted to work with them. As a twin herself, Cindy understood the importance of finding the perfect match for two young women to continue living together.

Dolma Tsering recently became their provider and reports that everything is running smoothly! The following wrote-up was relayed by Dolma on behalf of Emmi and Charlette-

Two Hearts, One Home: A Journey of Care and Comfort

As a host home provider, I give love, care, and support, but I also know that the journey of adjustment is different for each person. On the 1st of May, 2025, the twins arrived at my home. I knew I could take care of them, but I was nervous about how they’d adjust to their new environment and routine.

The twins are very different from each other. One is quiet, spending most of their time reading, drawing, or watching their iPad in a peaceful corner. The other is talkative, always asking questions and sharing their thoughts, but also loves watching their iPad, especially for funny videos and shows.

Both of them love food. They don’t enjoy cooking, but they are always excited to try the meals I make. I surprise them with new snacks, and the talkative twin will ask for the recipe, while the quiet twin will enjoy the food quietly, offering a small smile of approval.

It wasn’t just the food that helped them settle in—it was the little things that made them feel more at home. Over time, the quiet twin started asking more questions and joining in, while the talkative twin began to enjoy the quiet moments too. They even helped around the house in their own way.

As a host home provider, I feel happiest when they are happy. Seeing their smiles, hearing their laughter, and knowing they are finding comfort here means the world to me. Adjusting to a new home wasn’t easy, but after some time, I could see them both becoming more comfortable. With patience, care, and a few tasty treats, they are beginning to feel like this place was truly home.

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Not only did Cindy work with the twins as a twin herself, Jessica (their Residential Program Coordinator) is a Mom to twins as well! Word spread internally that 3 three sets of twins shared a team. And then we realized that two other employees at Support, Inc. are also twins. How wild is that?!

We couldn’t let this opportunity pass without sharing these fun details about our staff. From the twins we serve to the employees at Support, Inc. and their loved ones, we are lucky to have so many cool stories to share!

Cindy Cridlebaugh: Intake Specialist- “Clark A” has a twin (Cristy Rusch) lovingly referred to as “Clark B”.

My favorite story is when we both were pregnant (with boys) at the same time. I was up in the labor and delivery room.  My sister was in the cafeteria eating lunch with our parents.  The doctor saw her, and said ‘You are supposed to be in bed, why are you down here?’”

Also, I was maid of honor at my sister’s wedding, I came down the aisle and everyone stood up.  I had to shake my head “no” to everyone- “I’m Cindy!!!!

Thoughts on the recent intake-“What a treat getting to meet the identical twin sisters! One of them is talkative, and the other one is more shy (common traits of twins). Knowing they can have rooms close to each other with a connecting jack-and-jill bathroom is the perfect setting for them. They’re both so sweet. 😊 And I plan on visiting a lot. 😊

Overall, I enjoy all of our staff, meeting new families and seeing the success’s they have. 😊 I’ve always enjoyed “working” because it doesn’t feel like work. And I always wanted Cristy to come to the Support, Inc. office and pretend to be me- but she wouldn’t. I went to her office and pretended to be her, but when I sat down with the sales manager- I couldn’t open her briefcase, so I started to giggle. The joke was up at that point.

Jessica Daniel and Residential Program Coordinator: Mom to 13-year old twins, Matthew and Madison

One of my favorite stories to tell about my twins is when they were about 1 years old, I put them down for a nap in their separate cribs (same room). I could hear them playing they liked to throw toys into each other cribs which were right next to each other. When I didn’t hear them playing any more, I went in to check on them and my daughter had climbed into her brother’s crib and both of them were asleep cuddled right next to each other. They fight like cats and dogs now but every now and then I’ll catch them sleeping in each other’s rooms. Mostly when one is sick or upset about something. I wouldn’t give up being a twin mom for anything in the world!

When I learned about Emmi and Charlette, I was super excited to hear about them joining our services. I think that twins are so fun to work with because they are so alike and so different from each other. I can’t wait to see how they grow and become a special part of our community.

Working with Support, Inc. has been an amazing opportunity for me and my twins. It offers me the flexibility to be able to attend their after-school activities and not have to miss anything that’s going on in their lives. Which is a lot – my son plays football and does karate, and my daughter is a ballerina and enjoys volleyball and track. They keep me very busy and I love knowing that Support, Inc. will support me and my family life as well as the individuals I serve.

Lily Kirkman, Benefits Specialist, Support, Inc.

Your twin’s name: Evan Kirkman

Favorite twin story: Well, since we’re not identical, I don’t have any mistaken identity stories like some of my twin counterparts might! Growing up we always figured out how to make a game out of anything. One of my favorite ones was silly and simple. When we’d go out to eat at a restaurant, we’d each take a sugar packet and the first person to find every letter of the alphabet would win! I usually won. Maybe that’s why I liked it so much.

What I like most about working for Support, Inc. is the people. I truly believe we have some of the most compassionate, dedicated, and fun people in our network. From the people receiving services, to HHPs and FCGs and their families, to internal staff- we are surrounded by wonderful humans.  

One last thing to add- my twin isn’t a stranger to working at Support, either😉. At different points over the years, he worked as a DSP in the Aurora Day Program, he was an RPC, and he temped in our accounting department helping with AP entries. He still holds the people in services and staff close to his heart.

Alex Ring/ Loveland RPC

Twin’s name: Kaitlyn Ring

There are two main types of twins – fFraternal and identical. When twins are born the doctors know twins are identical if they share one placenta, if they are separate then there is only a 30% chance that the twins are identical and a DNA test would need to be done to find out. Kaitlyn and I grew up with people who could never tell us apart and others who would hardly ever get us confused (no one has a 100% track record of not confusing us). In 2020 we got a DNA test done and had all of our friends and family guess if we were identical. People were pretty split, but our results came back as identical! We told everyone we were fraternal most of our lives but now we know for sure.

What I enjoy most about working with Support, Inc. is working on things for my people in services that make their lives better in some way. A lot of what we do is in the background but that is where we help the most!

My photo on the company page may or may not be my twin – you’ll never know.

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Thanks to Emmi and Charlette joining us recently, we had a lot of fun collecting these details on twins across the agency. Who knew we had so many twins at Support, Inc.? Thanks to everyone for participating and a special thank you to Dolma for her write-up as well!

Thanks again and as always, please keep Intake in mind for any DD waiver questions or needs!

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May Family Caregiver of the Month

by Information & Resources

🌟 Provider of the Month: Kristi Martinez

A Foundation of Love, Dedication, and Unbreakable Commitment

We are proud to celebrate Kristi Martinez as PCR’s Provider of the Month — a recognition that reflects not just her extraordinary efforts, but the deep and enduring relationships she has built through years of love and unwavering service.

Kristi is more than a provider; she is the heart and backbone of her household. She recently stepped fully into the role of primary support for the home, and she has done so with remarkable grace and resilience. Whether coordinating critical agency needs, managing complex schedules, or performing the demanding tasks of her personal life, Kristi meets every challenge head-on — and always with heart.

In a time of transition, Kristi has ensured that both Cathy and Kelly continue to receive every opportunity to thrive in their community. She advocates fiercely for their needs, supports their goals, and remains steadfast in making sure their lives remain rich with dignity, connection, and purpose. Her commitment ensures that their options are never limited, and that every day includes access to joy, growth, and community inclusion.

Her collaboration with PCR staff is a shining example of partnership. Kristi communicates with clarity, responds with urgency, and always prioritizes thoughtful planning. Her proactive approach and genuine care make our jobs easier, and more fulfilling.

Having served as the RPC for this household, I had the privilege of experiencing Kristi’s warmth and sincerity firsthand. She welcomed me not only into the home, but into family traditions, celebrations, and the fabric of their daily lives. That openness extends to every new staff member — Kristi meets each person with kindness, trust, and an unwavering willingness to do whatever it takes to support her family’s wellbeing.

Kristi’s story is one of strength, sacrifice, and unshakable love. She is the kind of provider who reminds us of the power of compassion in action — and we are so lucky to have her as part of the PCR family.

Congratulations, Kristi — thank you for being the glue, the heart, and the example of what true support looks like.

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Happy Holidays From Your Quality Assurance Department!

by Information & Resources

December ushers in the holiday season including Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah and the New Year. This is often a time of reflection as we contemplate our successes and challenges over the last year. If we could sum up 2024 in a few words, it would be a ‘year of change’. Services for people with IDD went through large scale changes in this last year.

  • Case Management Redesign required Colorado case management agencies to provide case management to all 10 Home and Community Based Service (HCBS) waivers as a means to simplify access to long-term services and supports. Within case management redesign, the Community Center Boards (CCB’s) were also transitioning to conflict free casement in which they could no longer provide both case management and direct services. This year the last 2 cohorts of Case Management Agencies (CMA) transitioned.

 

  • Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) abbreviated surveys: CDPHE spent this year conducting abbreviated surveys to catch up on several years of backlogged recertification visits to Program Approved Services Agencies (PASA’s). We had our recertification visit in April.

 

  • Updated/ New Regulations with the changes in Case Management Redesign came the need for the state to revise current regulations to align with the change to CMA’s. While the last minor revisions are going through final approval with the Medical Services Board, these updated regulations include changes for PASA’s.

 

As we look ahead to 2025, our system will have a few more large-scale changes.

  • NEW Person-Centered Support Plan (PCSP) & Colorado Single Assessment (CSA) tool to replace the current service plan (SP) and ULTC 1002. assessment. The new PCSP continues to outline the HCBS and long-term services and supports a person is receiving but the revised plan will be more person-centered and ensure better coordination of services. The new assessment will be a universal tool applicable to all people receiving HCBS services. Both tools will be implemented in 2025, HCPF is exploring a slow rollout and updates to the timing will be provided.

There was a lot of change this last year and our system is slated for more changes in 2025. Thank you for supporting the people we serve through all these changes. If you have questions or need assistance don’t hesitate to reach out, we are here to support you.

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Host Home Provider of the Month

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Please join us in congratulating Nancy for Host Home Provider of the Month! The following details were provided by her Residential Program Coordinator-

I would like to nominate Nancy Rogers-Fleming for host home provider of the month! I have been working with Nancy for about three years now, and it’s truly been a privilege! I remember my first time meeting Nancy and PRS Amy, was while I was shadowing another RPC.  It had been maybe the 2nd or 3rd visit I had shadowed, and I was nervous jumping into my new role. Nancy, however, was very quick to make me feel comfortable and welcome.  She took the time to tell me little details about Amy, the things she liked, disliked, activities she was participating in, shared photos, etc. This was especially important to me, because it allowed me to get to know Amy who’s nonverbal a lot quicker than I could have ever imagined, but also gave me a glimpse into the type of provider Nancy is.

Nancy has been a provider to Amy for 12 years, and as you can imagine Amy is a very important and loved member of Nancy’s family. This is very evident through the family tradition they have started together. One of my favorite traditions they’ve shared with me has been raising caterpillars every year and releasing butterflies on Mother’s Day. Amy looks forward to this every year and it’s a very special moment her and Nancy share together.

Nancy does a phenomenal job making sure Amy is heard and her needs are met. Whether that be through encouraging her to communicate through her DynaVox, ASL, or simply her body language and facial expressions. Nancy always ensures she advocates for Amy and provides unconditional love, support, and quality care. She is a provider that genuinely cares for the PRS in her home. Nancy has also assisted DM2 with respite needs have been very difficult to fill. Allowing other HHPs to receive much needed breaks, all the while providing excellent care for the PRS. Nancy has provided an individual she frequently respites for with an additional home he feels comfortable in, which has not been an easy task.  We truly appreciate her dedication and hard work, thank you for being such an amazing provider and someone we know we can count on!

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Michael’s Kitchen Renovation

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Michael’s recent renovation has been deemed a success! Michael was happy to share his story with his team, Nate and Samantha.

Michael got some awesome home renovations this year! He got his cabinets and countertops remodeled. He advocated for his preferences and got exactly what he envisioned. With these renovations, Mike achieved one of his biggest home improvement goals!

Here are a few before and after photos!

Before:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And after:

 

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Ray Succeeds With New Job and Driver’s License

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Ray has had an eventful couple of months working towards two big goals. He got his driver’s license and a new job as a crossing guard.

Rays’ mom reports that he looks proud and happy in his bright crossing guard vest as he gets to work around one of his favorite things in the world- buses. He enjoys helping the kids cross the street, getting to be part of one of the most important public transportation systems in America, and having a flexible schedule to make it to his Smash Bros tournaments. When asked he said he wouldn’t rule out being a bus driver one day – especially now that he has his license.

Getting his license was the easy part he says, passing his mom’s driving lessons was not. Although he can drive himself now, he is not done with buses. His dream car would be for everyone to use the public transportation system so that it can expand and be taken everywhere. (If he had to pick it would be an RV because of the nice amenities). He especially likes the MAX bus in Fort Collins.

Congrats again, Ray, for reaching these major milestones!!

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Intake Team End of Year Updates

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Hello and thanks for reading from the Intake Team! As mentioned in the newsletter, the Intake Team still consists of Brian, Cindy, Kristin and Cathy. This is the most seniored team at the agency. Cindy has been with us for 23 years, Kristin 22 years, Cathy 7 years and Brian 5 years. We’re excited to share some updates and plans for the upcoming year!

First, the team wants to get reconnected to case managers, as turnover in 2024 reached an all-time high. We Look forward to building new relationships and partnering with Case Managers in 2025. As you know, relationships in the field are so important. We are eager to meet some new faces and learn from other folks that have been in the field as long as we have!

We also continue to attend provider fairs. We had great success the last few months, getting to know new families on the DD waiver. We love connecting with community partners and learning more about new Case Management Agency (CMA) Processes and procedures.

On this note, did you know that Cathy recently joined the Community Advisory Committee for the Weld County CMA? She meets quarterly with the team to review complaints, review and improve processes and procedures regarding Weld County Case Management and to ensure that waiver transfers from one county to the next have been expedited in a smooth and seamless manner.

Last but not least, Cathy also implemented billboards in Greeley, Fort Morgan and Sterling. Keep an eye out for our advertising! And feel free to let us know if you’ve seen our materials anywhere recently!

We thank you again for choosing us as your agency. Please continue to keep us in mind for DD placement needs by emailing Intake@supportinc.com with any potential leads.

Thanks again and take care.

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Walk for Northern Colorado Down Syndrome Association

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Support, Inc. recently joined a walk in Windsor hosted by the Northern Colorado Down Syndrome Association. Brian and Cathy first met Lori and Melinda at the respite retreat hosted by the newly rebranded ARC of Northeast Colorado back in July. What a nice coincidence to share a table at this gathering- the conversations they had together led Support, Inc. to host a booth at the walk earlier this month.

Cathy had a great time meeting new families and connecting with community partners. The Resource Fair allowed for members to learn more about the agencies in the area as they pertain to Down Syndrome. Cathy met a few new providers and relayed her contact information to anyone needing additional information on the DD waiver.

The best surprise of all was hearing Jillian Ball give her speech! Jillian is a current Person Receiving Services with Support, Inc. and such a wonderful keynote speaker. She will have you laughing and crying in one sitting. It was truly a pleasure to hear her address the crowd and we hope to catch her around again sometime soon!

Thanks again to the Northern Colorado Down Syndrome Association for allowing us to share a space with you during the walk recently. We greatly appreciated the opportunity to connect with community members and hope to join again next year!