Representative Larson has been serving South Jefferson County since 2019. He is a small business owner who knows first-hand how the government stifles job creation. He started his business from the ground up, facing the same challenges that business owners across the metro area face all while creating a community asset for the residents of Ken Caryl and Columbine.

Moving to the Columbine Valley as an infant, he has been a proud Colorado resident for over 24 years, attended Bradford Elementary, Deer Creek Middle School and Littleton High School.

Growing up, he was expected to take responsibility at a young age, getting his first job as a freshman in high school and working his way through college. He earned a degree in political science and history from Colorado College while working administrative jobs on campus. 

After graduating college, he took a job in public policy where he met his wife, Annie. In 2014 he started Atlas Coffees.  Through his role there, he has had the privilege of interacting with people from all walks of life, giving him a broad perspective and deep appreciation for the diverse needs of our community.

Representative Larson has proven to be a consistent ally for Alliance and an unwavering advocate for people with IDD, demonstrated through both his community service and throughout his years on the General Assembly.  Representative Larson has gone above and beyond to engage with the IDD population in his community, including spending time at Stepping Stone Support Center. 

Taylor Van Allen is the proud recipient of the “2021 Alliance Direct Support Professional of the Year” award.  He began his career as a DSP eight years ago when he joined the team at A Brighter Community.  As a rookie DSP, Taylor embraced his role whole-heartedly and, over time, he became a master of his craft. Taylor’s gifts and talents are only surpassed by his extreme devotion to the individuals he supports. Taylor has been instrumental in helping A Brighter Community develop its culture of friendship, belonging, inclusion, growth, love, kindness, dignity, and respect – because these are all values that he inherently demonstrates in every aspect of his life. Taylor wishes to thank Alliance for this extreme honor, and for advocating tirelessly on behalf of his friends with IDD.