Community Connections, a longtime service provider for people with disabilities, announced the establishment of a new nonprofit organization, Our Own Lives. Effective July 1, Our Own Lives will serve adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Southwest Colorado. Scott Smith is leading Our Own Lives as its CEO, effective April 2.

The move comes as Community Connections reorganizes to offer more specialized services. Community Connections will continue to serve children and families, while Our Own Lives focuses on employment support, in-home care and independent living options for adults.

Smith, a leader in mental health advocacy, brings over a decade of experience to the role.

“Our team is dedicated to fostering a more inclusive community by amplifying the voices of people with disabilities,” he said.

Community Connections CEO Tara Kiene said the reorganization will allow both entities to better serve their clients.

“We are excited about the positive impact this will have on our clients and the community at large,” Kiene said.

For more information, visit communityconnectionsco.org.