Brothers Redevelopment Offers Adams County Residents Up to $10,000 for Homeownership, Business, or Education

Big goals start with smart savings — and now, thanks to a partnership between Colorado Housing Connects and Adams County, residents can access up to $10,000 to purchase a home, start a business, or pursue post-secondary education through the Individual Development Account (IDA) Program.

An IDA is a matched savings account that multiplies the money participants set aside. For every $1,000 saved, the program contributes an additional $9,000, providing up to $10,000 that can be used for long-term financial goals such as a down payment, business startup costs, tuition, or job training.

“This program is about creating opportunity and financial stability for people who are working hard to build a better future,” said Patrick Noonan, Program Director of Colorado Housing Connects (1-844-926-6632). “Right now, so many people feel stuck when it comes to their financial prospects. Rent is high, both daily and monthly household expenses are rising and people feel like they’re only barely getting by — if at all.”

To be eligible, participants must live in Adams County and have a household income between 80% and 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI). AMI refers to the midpoint of household incomes in a region — in this case, Adams County. For example:

• A one-person household must earn between $72,950 (80% AMI) and $117,700 (120% AMI)
• A four-person household must earn between $104,200 (80%) and $168,100 (120%)

The IDA Program is already creating lasting change. To date, 35 Adams County households have used the program to purchase a home, turning $57,712.50 in personal savings into $115,425 in matching funds.

“Adams County understands that talent, drive, and potential are everywhere — but access isn’t. When only 42% of Black residents own homes, and single women are paying more for the same property, it’s clear that opportunity still feels out of reach for many,” said Rachel Jakubowski, Adams County Poverty Reduction Administrator. “The IDA Program was created to change that — to turn savings into stepping stones, and ambition into action.”

Since 2020, Brothers Redevelopment has administered IDA programs in both Denver and Adams counties. So far, the organization has helped 47 households save a combined $155,562 — unlocking $311,125 in matching funds. This long-running track record demonstrates the program’s lasting impact and Brothers Redevelopment’s commitment to helping families build financial security.

The need for programs like this is clear. According to The Pew Charitable Trusts:

• 43% of people raised at the bottom of the income ladder remain there as adults
• Only 4% of people raised at the bottom reach the top
• 40% of those raised at the top stay there
• 66% of those raised at the bottom of the wealth ladder remain on the bottom two rungs

These numbers reflect just how difficult it can be to move up financially and how important it is to have tools like the IDA Program to build a more secure future.

“Far too often, financial tools like these aren’t accessible to the people who could benefit from them the most,” said Noonan. “This program changes that. It’s about leveling the playing field and making sure Adams County residents have the chance to build wealth and stability for themselves and their families.”

Funding for the IDA Program is provided by Adams County.

For more information about eligibility or enrollment, contact Brothers Redevelopment Housing Counselor and Navigator Amy Kennedy at amyk@brothersredevelopment.org or call 303-685-4202.