Our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are the backbone of Harc, making a lasting difference in the lives of the individuals we support every day. From assisting with personal care to guiding individuals in making informed decisions, DSPs do more than provide basic support. They foster independence, build trust, and create environments where the people they support feel empowered. DSPs are the ones who help individuals find their voice, ensure their safety, and promote their well-being.

As professionals, they bring compassion and expertise to everything they do. Their work requires skill, patience, and dedication, and they are committed to the growth and success of those they serve.

As we begin Connecticut's legislative session, now is the time to advocate for the resources necessary to continue this important work. Ensuring fair wages for DSPs is crucial, but there are also other pressing needs, like increased funding for housing, transportation, and employment opportunities for the people we support. These issues impact our ability to provide the level of care and support that individuals deserve.

Our 13th Annual Have a Harc Day was a great success, providing an opportunity to hear from families, staff, and individuals as they shared their stories and called for the changes needed to strengthen our programs. We would like to thank Representative Jillian Gilchrest for hosting us this year. Advocacy is an ongoing effort, and we need your support to ensure these voices are heard.

Thank you for standing with us in this important work. Together, we can create a future where the individuals we support have the resources and opportunities they need to live full, meaningful lives.

What an incredible turnout for our 13th Annual Have a Harc Day at the Connecticut State Legislative Building!

We were overwhelmed with gratitude seeing so many families, staff, individuals, supporters, and Legislators come together for a day of advocacy and connection. 

Heartfelt testimony filled the room as we called for the critical funding needed to sustain the programs and services that make a real difference in the lives of individuals with IDD. We heard powerful voices from our community advocating for the support that nonprofits like Harc so desperately need to continue our vital work. 

A huge thank you to everyone who attended, and a special shoutout to our host, Representative Jillian Gilchrest, as well as Senator Matt Lesser, Rep. Nick Menapace, Rep. Jane Garibay, Deputy Majority Leader Tammy Exum, Rep. Manny Sanchez, Rep. Robert Sanchez, and Heather Ferguson-Hall from OPM for their unwavering support! Together, we’re making sure that voices of the IDD community are heard and respected.  Let’s continue to fight for a future where all individuals have access to the services they deserve. 

Our folks recently had an incredible opportunity to dive deep into the world of news broadcasting, and who better guide them through this exciting journey than Keith McGilvery, the esteemed anchor from Fox61! Keith’s visit was an unforgettable experience, offering valuable insights into the fast-paced and dynamic field of journalism. 

Individuals had the chance to ask all the questions they've ever had about news broadcasting. From the skills required to the day-to-day challenges of being on air, Keith shared alot about what it takes to succeed in the industry.

His expertise in both reporting and anchoring allowed our group to get the inside scoop on everything from using different microphone devices and how to even change the background of the weather forecast. 

In addition to this fantastic educational experience, we are thrilled to announce another exciting development: our Supported Employment Program will soon be doing the Harc morning announcements at Harc! This is an incredible opportunity for the individuals to showcase their talents and practice their new broadcasting skills.

A huge thank you to Keith McGilvery for taking the time to share his expertise with our individuals. His passion for broadcasting and dedication inspired the group of individuals that went to the news station; leaving them feeling motivated and empowered to pursue their own dreams.

Preston Mcclain's story is one of dedication, empathy, and profound impact. For over 14 years, he has been an integral part of Harc. His journey, which began with a desire to help and advocate for others, has grown into a fulfilling career that touches lives every day. 

Before joining Harc, Preston attended Tunxis Community College, where he studied human services. During his time at Tunxis, he had the opportunity to intern at a homeless shelter in Danbury, working with individuals struggling with alcohol and drug abuse. It was here that Preston’s passion for helping others began to take root. However, a pivotal experience would soon change the course of his career. 

While at Tunxis, Preston witnessed a scene that would resonate with him deeply: he saw individuals with I/DD (intellectual and Developmental Disabilities), working in the parking lot, doing yard work. "It hit me, but it didn’t hit me all the way," he recalls. This moment stayed with him, sparking a curiosity and empathy that would lead him to explore a career supporting individuals with disabilities. Later, a video he watched about the Mansfield Training School and Hospital, a state-run institution in Connecticut that had a notorious history of mistreating individuals with developmental disabilities, further solidified his desire to help. 

Moved by what he had learned, Preston decided to change the direction of his career. He realized that with the skills he had gained working with individuals facing challenges, he could make a real difference in the lives of those with I/DD. Determined, he set his sights on becoming a Job Coach, someone who could advocate for and empower individuals to succeed in the workforce and beyond. 

Preston’s search for a job coach position led him to an encounter that would change his life. He met Leilany, a staff member at Harc who the Senior Director of Day and Employment Services is now. Leilany took Preston on a tour of one of Harc’s group homes and encouraged him to apply. Preston did just that and was hired on the spot. It was the beginning of a journey that would not only change his life but also the lives of countless individuals. 

In his first year at Harc, Preston was introduced to a world he had never experienced before: working with individuals with disabilities. Despite the challenges, Preston quickly adapted, learning the ropes and connecting with the people he supported. One memory stands out for him: working with an individual who had always dreamed of visiting ESPN in Bristol. Both Preston and the individual shared a love of sports, and soon enough, Preston made that dream come true, arranging a special visit to ESPN that left a lasting impact on the individual. 

After a year working in the Explorative Day Program, Preston sought a new challenge and a deeper connection with the individuals he supported. Seven months ago, he became a 1:1 support for Luis, a 29-year-old with autism. The bond between Preston and Luis has grown stronger each day, a testament to the power of patience, understanding, and advocacy. 

Preston reflects on his work with Luis. "Working with Luis makes me feel so good," he says. "I’ve seen such an improvement in him, and it’s amazing to witness." Luis loves visiting the mall, where he enjoys the stimulation of different smells, sounds, and the overall atmosphere. He also loves to color, eagerly sharing his artwork with his mother. 

One of the most significant milestones in Luis’s development is his progress in learning to communicate. With Preston’s help, Luis is learning to use a tablet that pairs words with pictures, enabling him to communicate in both English and Spanish. This tool has allowed Luis to express his feelings and needs in ways that were once difficult for him. It’s a huge step toward him gaining independence and a deeper connection with those around him. 

The relationship between Preston and Luis is a powerful reminder of the vital role direct support professionals play in the lives of individuals and their families. Preston’s dedication to helping Luis achieve his goals, both big and small, is a perfect example of how compassionate support can lead to lasting change. At the heart of Preston’s work is a simple but profound truth: “I want to help and advocate for people.”

Harc is excited to announce its first-ever Dueling Pianos event, set to take place at Thomas Hooker Live on March 19th, 2025! This unique event offers the perfect blend of entertainment, music, and community spirit, as Harc continues its mission to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With a promise of fun, laughter, and unforgettable music, this is one night you won't want to miss. 

Doors open at 6:30 PM, with the show kicking off at 7:00 PM. The lively and dynamic performance will be brought to you by Savage Pianos, renowned for their interactive and high-energy shows that cater to all musical tastes. Whether you're into pop, rock, jazz, hip-hop, R&B, blues, or classical, this show has something for everyone. With a talented team of dueling pianists, you can expect a wide variety of songs and genres, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. 

How does our fundraiser work?

◼️ The higher the donation, the more likely the song will be played.         You can tip in either cash or Venmo.

◼️ Request Songs: Attendees donate to request their favorite songs.

◼️ Special Dedications: Guests can make donations for shout-outs, dedications, or specific performances (e.g., “play Happy Birthday for someone”).

By attending, you’ll be supporting an incredible cause, helping Harc continue to support for a lifetime to individuals with intellectual and related disabilities and their families so they can enjoy lives of quality, inclusion, and dignity. 

You can purchase tickets by scanning the QR code or click the “Buy Tickets” button. Together, we can make a difference and have an unforgettable time doing it. 

In February, we celebrated a long-awaited milestone—the grand reopening of our newly revamped Sensory Room at Harc. With excitement building up for months, our President & CEO, Russell, had the honor of cutting the ribbon, officially unveiling the upgraded space to all who have eagerly waited for this opportunity to commence. 

This incredible renovation wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of the Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA), which awarded us a $45,000 grant to breathe new life into the room. We are deeply grateful for their partnership in helping us create an environment that promotes healing, relaxation, and personal expression for the individuals we serve. 

The newly renovated sensory room boasts a range of exciting upgrades, each designed to support sensory exploration and create a safe, calming atmosphere. Some of the highlights include: 

Genie Fiber Optic Waterfall: A mesmerizing visual experience that provides soothing, flowing lights and colors. 

Pixels Pro Panel Sconce: An interactive, tactile light panel that engages individuals in creative play and exploration. 

Sound and Light Panel: A multi-sensory panel that combines sound, light, and movement to enhance relaxation and stimulation. 

85 ° Waterbed: A comfortable, waterbed that provides deep relaxation and sensory feedback. 

Grey Jaxx Upton Chair: A cozy, ergonomic seating option designed for comfort and support. 

Mini Crash Pit: A soft, safe space that allows individuals to engage in physical play and release energy. 

Tactical Loopie Wall: A sensory wall with textures and interactive components to stimulate touch and exploration. 

Vibroacoustic Therapy Chair: A chair that offers gentle vibrations, providing a calming therapeutic experience. 

Mood Cubes: Light-up cubes that change colors, creating an ambient, soothing atmosphere. 

Dance Floor Tiles: Interactive tiles that respond to movement, encouraging self-expression through dance and play. 

Liquid Floor Tile Set: Dynamic liquid-filled tiles that provide a tactile and visually engaging experience. 

Rod Wall: A unique wall of rods that can be manipulated, encouraging exploration and enhancing sensory engagement. 

These upgrades not only improve the sensory room’s functionality but also create a space where individuals can truly express themselves and find comfort in a serene environment. Whether they are seeking relaxation, stimulation, or simply a quiet place to retreat, the sensory room is now a haven for sensory exploration and emotional healing. 

In this heartwarming Youtube video, Katie and her roommates Lauren and KK team up to bake delicious brownies for the homeless at St. Patrick-St. Anthony Church. With the help of Donna Duffy, Katie's mom, these scrumptious treats are delivered to the church, where individuals in need also receive a special dessert, courtesy of the kind-hearted bakers from Harc. Watch as the talented team pours their energy and passion into creating something sweet for those who need it most. Take a moment to see the bakers at work, sharing both their skills and their hearts with the community!

In this fun and informative Youtube video, Connie; a contracted security guard from Securitas and Residential Direct Support Professional at Harc's Prospect group home, makes using Bonusly a breeze! She walks you through the process step by step, sharing her tips and tricks for getting the most out of this rewarding platform. Plus, stay tuned for a special surprise at the end, where Connie opens up about her personal experience with Bonusly and how it has impacted her. Don’t miss out on this insider’s guide—watch now and learn from Connie herself!