Children on ground holding hands in a circle representing community in Autism

The Resource Exchange (TRE) in Colorado Springs

Services and Support for Families Raising Children With Developmental Disabilities

When parents first begin exploring autism, ADHD, or developmental delays, one of the most confusing parts is figuring out where to go for help.

Evaluations answer important questions.

Therapies support development.
But families often still need help navigating the system.

In Colorado Springs, one of the primary organizations families rely on is The Resource Exchange, commonly called TRE.

TRE helps connect children and adults with disabilities to services, funding programs, and community support across Southern Colorado. For many families, it becomes a long-term partner in coordinating care and accessing resources that would otherwise be difficult to navigate alone.

If you have recently received a diagnosis for your child, or you are exploring services for the first time, understanding what TRE does can make the next steps much clearer.

What Is The Resource Exchange?

The Resource Exchange (TRE) is a nonprofit organization based in Colorado Springs that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout their lifespan.

Founded in 1964, TRE serves families across several counties in Southern Colorado, including:

El Paso County
Teller County
Pueblo County
Park County

The organization is designated by the State of Colorado as a Community Centered Board (CCB). That means it plays an official role in determining eligibility for certain developmental disability services and coordinating programs funded through Medicaid and other state resources.

TRE works with children, teens, and adults who have developmental differences such as autism, intellectual disabilities, or other conditions that affect daily functioning.

Their work focuses on helping individuals live meaningful lives in their communities while supporting the families who care for them.

Why Families in Colorado Springs Work With TRE

Navigating disability services can feel overwhelming.

Many families discover there are multiple systems involved:

medical providers
therapists
school services
Medicaid programs
community support programs

Each of these systems has its own requirements and paperwork.

TRE helps coordinate these pieces so families do not have to figure everything out alone.

They provide guidance, eligibility determination, and service coordination that connects individuals with the right programs and providers.

For many families in Colorado Springs, TRE becomes the central hub that helps them understand what services are available and how to access them.

Developmental Disability Eligibility and Support Programs

TRE also plays a major role in determining eligibility for certain developmental disability services in Colorado.

This process helps individuals access programs designed to support long-term independence and quality of life.

Eligibility evaluation may open the door to services such as:

specialized therapy services
case management
behavioral supports
residential assistance
employment and life skills programs

These programs can support individuals from childhood through adulthood, depending on their needs.

Because eligibility rules can be complex, TRE helps guide families through the process and explains what documentation is required.

Medicaid Waiver Programs

Many services for developmental disabilities are funded through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Medicaid Waivers.

TRE helps families apply for and manage these programs.

Waivers may provide access to services such as:

respite care for caregivers
in-home support staff
community participation programs
behavioral services
specialized equipment
transportation assistance

These programs allow individuals to receive support while living in their community rather than in institutional settings.

However, waiver programs often involve waiting lists, eligibility requirements, and complex paperwork.

TRE helps families understand the process and navigate the application steps.

Case Management and Service Coordination

Another major role TRE plays is service coordination.

This means helping families organize and manage the services their child receives.

Case managers may help with:

developing service plans
identifying qualified providers
coordinating therapies and programs
monitoring progress
helping families navigate changes in services

For families caring for a child with developmental needs, having someone who understands the system can make an enormous difference.

TRE works with a large network of providers and community organizations to help connect families with the right support.

Family Support Services

Caring for a child with developmental needs can bring unique challenges.

TRE offers programs designed to support families themselves.

Family support programs may include:

caregiver education and training
financial assistance for disability-related expenses
respite care opportunities
community support resources

These services help families continue caring for their children at home while maintaining stability and balance.

When Families Typically Connect With TRE

Families often connect with The Resource Exchange after one of several common events:

A child receives an autism diagnosis.
A pediatrician identifies developmental delays.
A child qualifies for early intervention services.
A family is seeking Medicaid waiver services.
Parents need help navigating multiple therapy and support systems.

TRE does not replace medical care or therapy providers.

Instead, it helps coordinate access to the programs and resources that support long-term care and development.

How Bright Starts Pediatrics Fits Into This Process

For many families, the first step toward accessing services like those coordinated by TRE is obtaining a clear developmental evaluation.

A diagnostic evaluation can help determine whether a child meets criteria for conditions such as autism or ADHD and provides documentation that may support access to services, therapies, and school accommodations.

Bright Starts Pediatrics in Colorado Springs provides autism and ADHD evaluations for children, teens, and young adults.

These evaluations help families understand their child’s needs and create a clear plan for next steps, which may include therapy services, school supports, or connections with community organizations like The Resource Exchange.

Contact Information

The Resource Exchange (TRE)
6385 Corporate Drive, Suite 100
Colorado Springs, CO 80919

Phone: 719-380-1100
Website: https://www.tre.org

TRE serves families throughout Southern Colorado, including El Paso County and surrounding areas.

Key Things to Remember

The Resource Exchange is a nonprofit organization that helps coordinate services for individuals with developmental disabilities in Southern Colorado.

TRE provides early intervention services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays.

The organization helps determine eligibility for developmental disability services and Medicaid waiver programs.

TRE case managers help families navigate complex systems and coordinate care between providers.

Family support services may include respite care, education, and financial assistance programs.

A developmental evaluation is often the first step in accessing services that TRE helps coordinate.

FAQs

What does The Resource Exchange do in Colorado Springs?

The Resource Exchange helps individuals with developmental disabilities access services and support programs. They coordinate services such as early intervention, Medicaid waivers, case management, and community support resources for families across Southern Colorado.

Who qualifies for services through TRE?

Eligibility varies depending on the program. Infants and toddlers with developmental delays may qualify for early intervention services, while older children and adults may qualify for developmental disability services or Medicaid waiver programs based on medical and functional criteria.

Does TRE provide therapy services directly?

TRE primarily coordinates services rather than providing therapy itself. They connect families with therapists, providers, and programs that deliver the services.

When should parents contact The Resource Exchange?

Parents may contact TRE if their child has developmental delays, receives a diagnosis such as autism, or needs help accessing disability services and support programs in Colorado Springs.

How can a diagnosis help access services through TRE?

A clinical evaluation provides documentation that may support eligibility for services and programs coordinated through TRE. Many families begin this process with a developmental evaluation from a pediatric specialist.

Insurances We Accept

We are in network with Aetna and Colorado Medicaid.
We are out of network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tricare, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare.

If you’re unsure about your benefits or coverage, we’re happy to help you understand your options.