The History of the Organization
ONCE UPON A TIME IN A NOT SO FAR AWAY LAND………
Co-founders, Amy K. Gearhard (Clinical Director) and Gina L. Smith (Executive Director), came together bringing over 25 years combined experience in private practice, including work in homes, schools, and community locations in multiple states. Over the years, both Directors came to recognize the significant need in Colorado for a dependable resource capable of providing quality services. With the vision of establishing a single organization where families could access multiple professionals collaborating across disciplines in order to promote cohesiveness and advanced progress – the dream began.
Matthew and His Princesses, 2003
Creative Perspectives, Inc. began with the vision of valuing and appreciating the creative perspectives of individuals with ASD. With 4 clients and a massive leap of faith, CPI Lakewood opened its doors on October 27, 2003. Amy and Gina personally built CPI from the ground up, working as full time volunteers to keep the organization financially afloat. With everything from handmade tables and gross motor equipment to colorful visuals and decorations, kid friendly and creative was our forte!
Lakewood Center Motor Room, 2003
2004 and 2005 brought much growth and excitement to the world of CPI! Summer 2004 hosted CPI’s first annual Camp Le’ale’a, complete with 7 courageous campers! Many of CPI’s favorite annual traditions were established, including rafting, skiing, and celebrating successes with Casa Bonita! The ultimate 2005 team building adventure? Disneyland, CPI style! 2005 ended with a bang, as we put on our First Annual Arts for Autism Fundraiser: a formal evening of champagne, hors d’oeuvres, and live and silent auctions. The fundraiser brought in just over $25,000.
Two Year Anniversary at Casa Bonita, 2005
Dinseyland, 2005
Arts for Autism 2005 raised enough funds for CPI to take a chance, becoming the first Autism center in the state of Colorado to have multiple treatment locations. CPI Lafayette opened its doors with just a handful of clients in January of 2006.
Three Year Anniversary at Rock Bottom Brewery, 2006
CPI continued to grow in 2007, with a big move from Lakewood to our current main location in Englewood.
Four Year Anniversary at Hard Rock Cafe, 2007
CPI settled into Englewood, and the team continued to grow in 2008!
Five Year Anniversary at P.F. Changs, 2008
2009 brought with it Camp Le’ale’a hosting over 40 clients and plenty of hustling and bustling year round at both centers! Autism Rocks made its debut in Summer 2009 with CPI’s first benefit concert featuring Tim Hanauer and The Kirkpatrick Project.
Six Year Anniversary at Strings, 2009