Cottonwood Foundation: For life-changing work
The energy, excitement, friendliness, and joy you see as you walk through the spaces at Cottonwood are truly special, and they are a proud tribute to the powerful and life-changing work the organization has been doing in Douglas and Jefferson counties over the last 46 years. Cottonwood serves more than 600 individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD). The opportunities provided to live independently, work in a rewarding and supportive environment, travel, and engage in social activities are abundant and inspiring. “We really have an amazing community, and we are so appreciative of the support we receive to enhance the quality of life for the people we serve,” said Sharon Spratt, CEO of Cottonwood, Inc. “From wonderful neighbors and local business partners to the Lawrence Transit system and Lawrence Parks and Rec, to name but a few — all provide invaluable contributions that help us meet our mission of helping people shape their own future.”
The Cottonwood Foundation Endowment Fund at DCCF is crucial to Cottonwood’s long-term success. “We have had some serious reductions in federal and state funding over the last 10 years, which directly impact our ability to provide wage increases for our staff. Our staff is truly the bricks and mortar of our ability to meet our mission, and we must be able to pay a competitive wage and provide the supports they need to ensure that the people we support continue to be served with the respect and dedication they deserve,” said Ettie Brightwell, Cottonwood’s Director of Community Relations and Development. Cottonwood partners with some very familiar companies to provide employment opportunities for individuals and additional revenue for the organization. The United States Department of Defense, Hill’s Pet Nutrition and Hallmark Cards are a few of the companies that contract with Cottonwood for largescale productions in the Cottonwood Work Center. Cottonwood delivers quality products on time and with a lot of pride. For more about Cottonwood, visit its website at cwood.org