As the holiday season approaches, it’s a time for joy, celebration, and togetherness. For many, the holidays bring warmth, connection, and cherished traditions that brighten the end of the year. Yet, for some, this time can also bring challenges such as stress, feelings of isolation, or difficulty navigating a world that may not always feel inclusive. From uplifting news stories that rekindle faith in humanity to movies that evoke laughter, tears, and inspiration, we hope this resource guide helps you embrace the coming year with renewed optimism and joy.
We have also included important mental health resources for those who are in need of extra support as well as a variety of community resources. We hope this guide brings joy and ease to your holiday season!
Inspiring Stories from 2024
News more often than not focuses on the negative aspects of society. Below are several uplifting stories from 2024 that we know will inspire you and put a smile on your face!
Kayla Kosmalski is pictured during the beauty pageant in a blue gown wearing a sash that says Delaware Teen. Photo: Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty
Teen with Down Syndrome Makes Beauty Pageant History — and Gets Named Miss Congeniality (Exclusive)
Trailblazing Beauty Queen: Kayla Kosmalski, an 18-year-old with Down syndrome, made history as the first contestant with the condition to compete in Miss Teen USA. Representing Delaware after winning Miss Delaware Teen USA 2024, Kosmalski’s platform focused on acceptance and inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome. Despite not winning the ultimate title, she was named Miss Congeniality. Read the complete story here.
New state office would be barrier-breaking hub for Coloradans with disabilities
Establishment of the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office: In 2024, Colorado took a significant step toward enhancing support for individuals with disabilities by establishing the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office within the Department of Labor and Employment. Spearheaded by Rep. David Ortiz, the state’s first lawmaker to use a wheelchair, this office aims to implement a statewide strategy to facilitate economic stability and promote successful economic, social, and community integration for people with disabilities. Learn more about this initiative here.
Amendment G passes: Colorado voters expand property tax break to more disabled veterans
Passage of Amendment G: Colorado voters approved Amendment G, expanding property tax exemptions for veterans with disabilities. This measure broadens the eligibility criteria for the Homestead Property Tax Exemption to include veterans with individual unemployability status, providing much-needed financial relief to those who have served our country. Learn more about the Amendment here.
Uplifting Films to Enjoy
Movies have a unique ability to spark our imagination and transport us to another world for a few hours. The films below promise to take you on a journey that will uplift your spirit and touch your heart!
“Out of My Mind”: This heartwarming coming-of-age story follows Melody Brooks, a sixth-grader with cerebral palsy who is unable to speak or move without a wheelchair. Based on Sharon M. Draper’s bestselling novel, it offers an insightful portrayal of her life and aspirations. Watch the trailer!
“Facing the Falls”: This inspiring documentary chronicles Cara Elizabeth Yar Khan’s daring 12-day horseback journey across the Grand Canyon, challenging perceived limitations of individuals with disabilities. The film highlights her resilience and determination, offering a powerful narrative of overcoming obstacles. Watch the trailer here, and watch the complete documentary here!
“Best Summer Ever”: A groundbreaking musical featuring a fully integrated cast of actors with and without disabilities. It tells the story of a summer romance that faces challenges when secrets are revealed, bringing joy and representation to the screen. Watch the trailer here!
Inspiring Books Released in 2024
Cover of the book “Disability Intimacy”.
“Disability Intimacy: Essays on Love, Care, and Desire” edited by Alice Wong: This anthology illuminates the many meanings of intimacy, from caregiving, community, and friendship to sex. It includes essays by activists and authors such as Marieke Nijkamp, Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha, s.e. smith, and Ingrid Tischer, as well as poetry by Ashna Ali, John Lee Clark, Cyrée Jarelle Johnson, and Ellen Samuels. Get the book here!
“The Complications: On Going Insane in America” by Emmett Rensin: Journalist Emmett Rensin provides a personal account of living with schizoaffective disorder, exploring the failures of the U.S. mental health industry and societal stigmas associated with severe mental illnesses. Get the book here!
“Compound Fracture” by Andrew Joseph White: A gripping tale that delves into the experiences of a neurodivergent lead character, exploring themes of identity and acceptance. Get the book here.
Community Resources
For many, the holidays can feel less like a time of joy and more like a season of stress and overwhelm. To help you navigate this intense time, we’ve gathered some tips and resources to support your well-being and bring balance to the season.
Stress Management Tips
- Eat Healthy– Holiday treats are everywhere, and while indulging is part of the fun, balance is key! Pair those festive sweets with nutritious foods that fuel your body and mind. Too much sugar can lead to energy crashes and even affect your mood. Maintaining a healthy balance helps keep both your physical and mental state steady.
- Get Moving – A holiday movie marathon might sound cozy, but don’t forget to get your body moving! Exercise releases endorphins and boosts serotonin levels, improving mood and energy. With longer nights and shorter days, staying active is even more essential to beat the winter blues.
- Prioritize Sleep – The holidays can be busy, but don’t skimp on sleep! A good night’s rest is vital for clear thinking, emotional resilience, and avoiding holiday grumpiness. While the parties and late-night fun are tempting, remember to recharge so you can fully enjoy the season.
- Stay Connected – The holidays are all about togetherness. If travel plans or schedules make it hard to see loved ones, look for opportunities to connect with others in your community. Opening your heart to connection, whether through a phone call or a local event, can bring warmth to even the coldest days.
If you’re feeling isolated or stressed, here are some resources to help you find connection and support this season:
Mental Health Support During the Holidays
Two women sit and talk in therapy.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Offers guidance on managing mental health during the holidays, including setting realistic expectations and maintaining healthy habits.
988 Lifeline: For immediate assistance, call or text 988 to connect with trained counselors available 24/7.
Mental Health Partners: Counseling services for individuals, families, and addiction recovery. If you think you need mental health or addiction recovery services, call their main line at (303) 443-8500 to begin.
Mental Health Partners 24/7 Crisis and Addiction Center: Mental Health Partners’ Walk-In Crisis Center in Boulder is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Services include confidential, in-person support, information and referrals to anyone in need. Their center is always available to those in need of direct services or those seeking to help engage another person in services, whether the crisis is substance-use related, psychiatric, or both.
Location: 3180 Airport Rd, Boulder, CO 80301
Naropa Counseling Services: Naropa Community Counseling integrates contemplative approaches with modern clinical practice to assist our clients in reaching their highest level of emotional and mental well-being. They are closed for Winter Break from Dec 16 – Jan 1.
Colorado Suicide Prevention/National Suicide Prevention: If you find yourself thinking about self-harm or suicide, please reach out to a crisis counselor immediately at the Colorado Suicide Prevention/National Suicide Prevention. They have counselors on standby 24/7. it’s free, confidential crisis intervention.
1-844-493-TALK (8255), text TALK to 38255. Services and information available in English and Spanish.
CPWD Peer Support Groups : Join your peers at these in-person groups to connect, make friends, find resources for Independent Living, and recognize that you are not alone! Our office will be closed from Dec 21 – Jan 2, when our peer support groups will resume. Check out our service calendar here.
However you celebrate the holidays, we hope you find moments of joy, connection, and support within your community. From all of us at CPWD, we wish you a Happy Holiday season and a wonderful New Year!
