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History

A man in a wheelchair smiling

Over 70 Years of Changing Lives

Harc, Inc. was founded in 1951 by the visionary parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities who knew that their children had worth and were of value to society. They became fierce advocates fighting against exclusion, isolation, discrimination, lack of opportunity, unemployment, and low expectations.

Their grassroots efforts forged lasting partnerships with generous individuals, foundations, corporations, and community leaders to raise the funding and awareness necessary to create life-changing programs. Harc’s efforts have been Sparking Possibilities for individuals with disabilities and their families for over 70 years so they may enjoy lives of quality, inclusion, and dignity. 

History Timeline

An old photo of the Harc sign

1951

  • Harc was founded to serve the Hartford area when 20 parents met in the living room of Clarke & Claire Brinkerhoff.

1953

  • Harc opened The New Hope School on September 28th at the Institute Of Living Children’s Building on Essex Street for children, ages 4-16, with mental disabilities who were excluded from public school. 
  • Harc sent eighteen campers to Harkness Memorial Park in the summer. 

1954

  • Harc expanded to serve the Greater Hartford area.

1956

  • Harc started a daycare program for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities who were excluded from public schools.
  • Harc started a job training class at the Hartford Regional Center with financial assistance from the government and the Harford Junior League. There were 10 trainees in the program.
  • Harc started Boy and Girl Scout Troops and a Brownie Troop.

1958

  • The first Annual Rummage Sale was led by Lottie Sherman, with proceeds used to provide camperships at Harkness Memorial Park.

1959

  • Harc grew from a small volunteer group to a professional organization, hiring their first executive director.

1960

  • First year of the Harc Summer Day Camp was started in July with 15 campers.

1965

  • Beatrice R. Fleeson was appointed executive director in December.

1966

  • January 1 - Harc's formal affiliation with the United Way.

1969

  • In September, Harc opened a vocational program, The Harc Shop, on Homestead Avenue. For participants 16 and older.

1970

  • On September 20, the Harc Retail Shop opened, all items were made by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.