Local Financial Services Firm Teams Up With Inspiring Non-Profit Organization to Help Children with Disabilities

LOVELAND, Colo., Aug. 21, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Two years ago, Gary Hansen, president of Financial Strategies of Colorado, was introduced to David and Shawna Hodges, founders of the non-profit organization Downs on the Farm, through a shared church affiliation, and they're working together to raise money and awareness for a cause that's near and dear to all of their hearts. The funds raised will go toward building a heated handicap restroom facility and relaxing retreat area for parents of children with disabilities so that activities and individual therapy sessions can continue year-round.

DOTF, located in Berthoud, is a five-acre ranchette the Hodges opened to special needs children and their families in 2009. As the parents of a handicapped child, the Hodges are keenly aware of the high cost and time commitment often required to enroll these kids in enrichment and therapy programs. The couple decided to open DOTF to provide special needs children with access to a therapeutic environment that encourages building core strength, improving balance and lowering anxiety. Hansen, who was immediately impacted by the Hodges' story, knew that this was a cause that meant so much to so many. Having spent time mentoring a young adult with Downs Syndrome named Tyson, Hansen has a strong appreciation for the challenges special needs individuals face and the unique opportunities that DOTF can provide for positively impacting them physically, emotionally and mentally.

"Getting to know Grady, the Hodges' son, and spending time with my friend Tyson has brought me so much joy and inspiration. Both of these individuals have more pure love in their hearts than just about anyone else I know. I knew that if there was something I could do to provide disabled children and their families with the support and resources they need to improve their quality of life, I had to get involved. Fortunately, I work with hundreds of caring individuals and families at Financial Strategies of Colorado who are passionate about giving back to the local community, and I can't wait to see if we can help DOTF hit their fundraising goal for this initiative," said Hansen.

Currently, Hansen and his firm have helped collect several thousand dollars toward DOTF's $45,000 goal. The organization is tracking donations on its website. For more information about Downs on the Farm, additional upcoming events and details on how to make a tax-deductible donation to the organization, visit www.downsonthefarm.org.

ABOUT FINANCIAL STRATEGIES OF COLORADO

Financial Strategies of Colorado was founded with a simple goal: to help families achieve their life goals, find financial freedom and live their dreams. The firm focuses on using a process of discovery and planning, starting with a basic analysis of clients' individual situations and objectives, before developing customized financial roadmaps for creating successful futures. Gary Hansen has spent 32 years providing individuals and families with the strategies they need to optimize their income with less risk. To learn more about Financial Strategies of Colorado, visit www.fscolorado.com.

ABOUT DOWNS ON THE FARM

Downs on the Farm is a 501c3 non-profit organization located in Berthoud, Colo., focused on providing 100% free animal therapy programs and enrichment for children with disabilities, as well as providing a home or adoption services for both farm and domestic animals. Founded by David and Shawna Hodges in 2009, the project allows special needs children and their families to engage in therapeutic leisure activities that stimulate mental, physical and emotional growth in a safe, family-friendly atmosphere. To learn more about Downs on the Farm, visit www.downsonthefarm.org.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Gary Hansen, President, Financial Strategies of Colorado
970.663.3211, [email protected]

Shawna Hodges, Co-Founder, Downs on the Farm
970.397.2010, [email protected]

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SOURCE Financial Strategies of Colorado