HARC was founded in 1951 by parents and friends of children with intellectual disability when the only help available to families was large institutional placement. Children in these state-run institutions legally became wards of the state and often lived long distances from their families.

Public education was not mandated for children with disabilities. Local schools routinely excluded children if they were not toilet trained, exhibited behavioral issues, or simply could not "benefit" from an education. In 1978, after a landmark Supreme Court case (PARC v. Pennsylvania, 1971) found such discrimination illegal, Congress enacted a law, currently titled Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, mandating free and appropriate education for children with disabilities from ages 3 to 21.

Following in the footsteps of this landmark "right to education" decision, the Supreme Court has since found that people with intellectual disability who reside in training schools and other congregate facilities have a right to habilitative treatment (Pennhurst v. Halderman, 1981) and the right to live in the community if they so choose (Olmstead v. L.C. and E.W., 1999).

As a result of similar litigation, Connecticut closed Mansfield State Training School. However, the State of Connecticut still operates large regional centers as well as Southbury Training School.

Infant Intervention - birth-to-three services, including evaluation and therapies

Family Support - social services, respite care, advocacy, and case management.

Recreation - year round evening and weekend programs for children and adults

Supported Employment - collaborations with area businesses

Bulova Center - employment development, wellness programs, physical and occupational therapy, sensory integration, computer center

Residential Services - group homes and supported living in condos and apartments

Behavioral Health Services - specialized licensed out-patient mental health center

Elderly Enrichment - volunteer and recreational activities for retired workers.

Annual Fund/Membership Financial Support: This yearly appeal kicks off in December, raising funds to sustain HARC's ongoing programs and services as well as  keeping our business vibrant.  Donation options available (Annually, Semi-Annually, Quarterly, Monthly)

Advocacy: Join our legislative network to thank your legislators, attend public hearings, host small gathering at your home to promote legislative relationships.

Event Sponsorship/Contribution: Galas and events such as HARC's Annual Auction, Walkathon, Annual Meeting and other celebrations provide opportunities to businesses and individuals to become sponsors and get involved in the community.

Volunteer : Residential, Special Olympics, Camp Bulova.  For more information visit our volunteer page.