June 2025 Recognized as Adult Protection Awareness Month in Mesa County

Each year, thousands of vulnerable adults across Colorado experience abuse, neglect or exploitation. In Mesa County, our Adult Protection Team (APS) works every day to change that.

June is Adult Protection Awareness Month, and Mesa County Department of Human Services (MCDHS) is proud to lead local efforts to raise awareness and take action. In 2024 alone, MCDHS received more than 2,475 referrals involving the mistreatment of vulnerable adults, many of whom are elderly or disabled and dependent on others for care.

Mesa County APS is more than the reporting line. Our team investigates concerns, connects individuals to essential services and helps families navigate difficult situations. The goal goes beyond intervention and includes prevention, ensuring adults can remain in their homes and communities with the dignity and support they deserve.

To honor the month and bring visibility to this critical issue, MCDHS will host a Purple Ribbon Ceremony at 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 5, at the Community Services Building, 510 29 ½ Road. Staff will gather outside the main entrance to tie purple ribbons around the trees on campus, which is a symbolic gesture to recognize victims of elder abuse and promote prevention efforts. The color purple is recognized globally as the official color for elder abuse awareness.

“We encourage everyone to call the confidential Adult Protection Hotline and report suspected neglect, abuse, and exploitation of at-risk adults,” said Adult Protection Director Joe Kellerby. “The goal of Mesa County Adult Protective Services is to ensure the safety of at-risk adults and implement the least restrictive services to prevent future mistreatment.”

MCDHS is committed to protecting and advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations in Mesa County. Senior citizens and people with disabilities are vital members of our community and deserve to live in safety and dignity. To report suspected adult abuse or neglect, call the Mesa County Adult Protection Hotline at 970-248-2888. Callers may remain anonymous.

Learn more about how you can support prevention and awareness here.