Under clear summer skies, friends and supporters of Aspen House gathered at 2079 Vista Blvd. on July 1 to celebrate a momentous milestone: the official pre-groundbreaking event for what will become the first fully supportive home for adults with developmental disabilities in Archuleta County.
The morning marked the start of visible progress at the site, with the team from La Plata Electric Association (LPEA) installing the electrical transformer — signaling the beginning of utility infrastructure work.
This crucial step sets the stage for initial construction and the “dry-in” phase of the project. With funding secured for this initial phase, Aspen House believes the visible momentum will inspire additional support from donors who share the vision of a vibrant, inclusive home where adults with developmental disabilities can thrive.
“This is more than just the start of a construction project,” said Pattie Copenhaver, Aspen House executive director. “It’s the beginning of a future where families in our community can rest easier knowing their loved ones have a safe, permanent and supportive place to live.”
Aspen House is a program of A Safe Place in Pagosa Inc., founded in 2014 by Patty Brown and Carolyn Paschal, two local mothers of sons with developmental disabilities. Driven by a lack of local options for long-term supportive housing, they set out to create a solution — not only for their families, but for the entire community.
“And so thankful that this dream is actually becoming a reality. It is really like a dream come true,” said Paschal. “I had so many mixed emotions — happy, of course, elated, actually, amazed at the support of this project, and a little scared. Any great endeavor needs continued support, and we have to make sure we keep this moving forward for our adults who need it so much.”
Once complete, Aspen House will offer wraparound services through Aspen Services Residential, which will oversee day-to-day operations.
“I also am very grateful that this much-needed home is finally moving forward. It has been a dream of mine for my son and his buddies for so long. It took a lot of people and much hard work. My appreciation to all is more than words can express. Thank you,” said Brown.
The goal is not only to open the doors of Aspen House, but to build a thriving, inclusive community where individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities can live full, empowered lives — surrounded by compassion, opportunity and the support they need.
Aspen House invites the community to follow along as construction progresses and to join in supporting the vision of a home that will serve generations to come.
For more information and to learn about upcoming opportunities to support Aspen House, please call Copenhaver at (970) 398-1636 or visit www.aspenhousepagosa.org.
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