We believe that where you live should feel like home. Everyone deserves a safe, supportive place where you can be yourself, grow, and belong.

We build our residential services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) around each person’s needs and preferences. Some individuals live with family, others in shared homes, and some in their own apartment in the community. Wherever someone lives, support might include help with cooking, cleaning, personal care, staying healthy, or learning life skills. On a typical day, that might look like breakfast and morning meds, then a plan each person helps choose: bowling, a trip to the store, a walk when the weather’s nice, or a board game at the kitchen table. Our caring team works closely with Members (the adults we serve) and their circle of support. Because at Ariel, residential services aren’t just about where you live—they’re about how you live.

Our person-centered approach honors each individual’s unique story, strengths, dreams and dignity. Unlike more rigid care models, our support levels continually adapt as each individual’s needs change over time. The goal is always just the right amount: not more than needed, just as much as wanted. This flexibility lets people grow at a custom pace, with the highest level of independence and least amount of intervention possible.

Developing social and emotional skills alongside daily living support is a key focus for us, too. Ariel goes beyond securing safe housing. We offer opportunities to explore new possibilities and expand each person’s vision of what all parts of life can look like. Our wraparound supports help with learning new skills, pursuing personal goals, enhancing health and wellbeing, and meeting new friends. That way, home becomes a launching point for broader life experiences. We’ve seen Members compete in Special Olympics, start a new job, and build the skills to move into an apartment. Through this approach, individuals don’t just receive at-home care, they feel at home in their own lives. They build confidence, form genuine connections, and actively participate in their communities on their own terms.

We offer a variety of living arrangements to meet the unique needs, preferences, and strengths of each person. From host homes for adults with I/DD to apartments in the community, we help find the setting that fits. Each setting promotes safety, belonging, and the highest level of independence possible.

• Independent Community Living | Members live on their own or with a roommate of their choice, receiving staff support as needed. This option provides maximum independence with the security of knowing help is always available. It’s ideal for those ready to manage their daily lives on their own terms, with just the right balance of freedom and care.
• Family Caregiver Setting | Members live with a family member who receives professional guidance and support from Ariel’s team. This arrangement strengthens family bonds while ensuring access to expert resources and respite care. Families can focus on their relationships, knowing they have the backing and expertise they need.
• Host Home Setting | Members live with a trained, non-related caregiver or family supported by Ariel. This option offers the warmth of family life with built-in community connections and daily support. It’s ideal for those who thrive in close relationships and benefit from consistent, caring guidance.
• 3-Bed Personal Care Alternative (PCA) | Members share a home with up to two others, receiving 24/7 staff support. This option combines personal attention with community living, addressing medical, emotional, and daily needs while fostering friendships. It’s ideal for those who need consistent support and still want the social benefits of shared living.

Ariel is committed to supporting not only our Members, but also their families, caregivers, and Residential Providers. In addition to residential placement, we offer a full spectrum of supportive services:

Ariel provides residential services across Colorado through five regional HQs. Host homes and family caregiver settings are available through every location, and other options vary by area. For the most up-to-date options, contact your regional HQ.

People come to residential services from many places. Some are newly approved for a waiver and exploring options for the first time. Some have lived with family for years, and everyone is ready for more support. Others are stepping down from a more restrictive setting, moving to western Colorado for more resources, or moving from the Supported Living Services (SLS) waiver to the DD waiver. Some young adults in our child and family services continue with Ariel into adulthood.

In general, Medicaid’s Developmental Disability (DD) Waiver determines who qualifies for residential services and covers the cost. Once approved, Members have DD Waiver access for life. Their funding amount may change over time, based on the level of care (LOC) they need. For example, medical crises, behavioral changes, or legal involvement can be grounds for requesting a change. Ariel is well-versed in navigating these changes, both administratively and in day-to-day services. We’ll support Members and their families through any move to a higher or lower level of care.

To learn how to apply for a DD Waiver, find your county’s agency in the state’s Case Management Agency Directory.

Your local case management agency (CMA) approves funding, and Ariel provides the services. Once funding is in place, we’ll meet with you and talk through what matters most. Then we’ll visit possible homes together, so everyone feels good about the new home and the people in it.

If you don’t find what you’re looking for below, feel free to ask your question via our Contact Form.