It Takes a Village and You’re Invited

Harc’s mission is to ensure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities enjoy lives of inclusion, dignity, and purpose. That mission is lived out every day through relationships, shared effort, and a deep belief in the value of every person. It is not just something we say. It is something we do together.

Everyone has something to give, and giving back is one of the most meaningful ways to build a stronger, more connected community where every person belongs.

Whether it is helping to plan an event, serving on a committee, or stepping into leadership through board service, there is a place here for you.

Hands, Hearts, and Voices Welcome

· Volunteer opportunities at Harc come in many forms Hands on help at events like our Prom, holiday parties, and art shows

· Committee service in areas like our Auction and Gala, advocacy, strategic planning, or family engagement

· Board leadership, where individuals lend their wisdom, networks, and time to help guide Harc’s long term direction

Each of these roles matters. Every act of service ripples outward to our participants, to their families, and to the broader community. And every volunteer, no matter their age or background, brings something uniquely valuable to the table.

High school students are organizing healthy eating classes. Local companies are volunteering time to paint fences, refresh decks, and lead arts and crafts in our day programs. Young professionals are helping to strengthen our social media presence. Parents and guardians become passionate advocates. Neighbors become lifelong friends.

The Gift of Belonging

Giving back at Harc does not just impact the people we serve. It often changes the lives of those who serve as well. Many volunteers tell us they discover a deeper sense of purpose and connection through their involvement. They build lasting relationships. They see the world with more compassion, more understanding, and more hope.

One volunteer recently told me, “I showed up thinking I was here to give back, but the truth is, I have gotten just as much in return.” That kind of reflection is something we hear often. People come to Harc to lend a hand, and along the way, they find connection, meaning, and a deeper understanding of what really matters.

That is what we offer at Harc. Not just a place to help, but a place to belong.

Join Us

As we look ahead to our Gala, fall programming, and new strategic initiatives, we need more hands, hearts, and voices around the table. If you have ever thought about getting more involved, now is the time.

Whether you have an hour, a skill, or a passion to share, we have a seat for you. Let us build the future of Harc together, one act of service at a time.

We cannot wait to welcome you.

Thank you,

Russell

June is Pride Month, and at Harc, we proudly celebrate individuals of all abilities, cultures, and backgrounds. This month is a special time to honor the voices, talents, and experiences of those on the autism spectrum and or who are also members of the LGBTQ+ community.

To highlight this important celebration, Harc’s own news broadcast, Harc Morning Buzz, recently featured a special segment dedicated to Autism Pride Day, which takes place on June 18th. The segment spotlighted the importance of embracing autistic identity and the power of pride in fostering self-acceptance and community connection.

This month, and every month, we celebrate the uniqueness of every individual in our community. Check out the news segment below, and happy Pride Month from all of us at Harc!

It was a beautiful day at the Capitol, as we gathered to celebrate the official ribbon cutting for Franny’s Rolling Lens Photography at the Legislative Office Building. This event marked a powerful moment of pride and inspiration for Franny, who is a talented entrepreneur, proud Harc participant, and gifted photographer.

Using only her iPad and her foot from her wheelchair, Franny captures breathtaking images that reflect her unique perspective and unstoppable creativity. Her latest photo collection focuses on the architecture and spirit of Connecticut’s Capitol, offering a fresh and powerful lens in a familiar place.

Franny’s photo cards are now available for purchase at Miss Barbara’s Gift Shop in the Legislative Office Building. Each card tells a story of determination, artistry, and joy, and every purchase supports her dream and growing microbusiness.

This heartwarming launch was made possible through the support of Futures Inc. with consulting funded by the Greater Hartford Community Development Block Grant. Their efforts have helped Harc create meaningful self-employment opportunities like Franny’s, where individuals can thrive doing what they love.

Congratulations Franny! We can’t wait to see where your lens takes you next!

Check out Franny 's photo adventures on our YouTube channel!

Harc staff and family gathered to celebrate what would have been Janey Delaney’s 73rd birthday, which was a heartfelt occasion filled with love, laughter, and sweet memories. Janey’s spirit was warmly remembered by her beloved sisters Liz, Maureen, and Mary, who continue to honor her legacy by letting everyone indulge in a sweet cold treat by bringing the “Sundae Ice Cream Truck” to Harc.

If you'd like to check them out for your next celebration, visit their website at www.icecreamct.com.

Here’s to Janey! A life well-lived, a heart never forgotten.

Harc’s 2025 Life Enrichment Program Prom was truly a day to remember! This year’s stunning theme was V.I.P. Hollywood, as we rolled out the red carpet for our incredible stars; they shined brighter than ever, radiating joy, confidence, and true celebrity spirit.

A heartfelt THANK YOU goes out to NBC News Anchor Taylor Kinzler and longtime Harc friend Keith McGilvery for joining us and making the day even more magical. Your warmth and presence made everyone feel like true VIPs!

Thank you so much to our old Harc friend DJ Dale, whose infectious energy and epic playlist kept the dance floor packed full of dancing making everlasting memories for our folks— we couldn’t have done it without you!

And last but not least, huge congratulations to our Prom King Chris and Prom Queen Sonia! You both looked absolutely stunning and lit up the room with your radiant smiles.

It was a day full of life, laughter, and unforgettable moments — just the way a prom should be. Until next year, Hollywood stars!

Exciting news from Harc — we're proud to introduce DJ Star, also known as Joe! With his passion for music and great energy, Joe is ready to take his DJ business to the next level thanks to a generous gift: a brand-new controller and speakers, funded by the Hartford Community Development Block Grant.

This incredible equipment will allow Joe to bring his music and joy to Day Programs and groups across Hartford, creating unforgettable dance parties and celebrations wherever he goes.

We were honored to have Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam join us for Joe’s special ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the official launch of his DJ career. A heartfelt thank you to Darlene from Futures Inc. for helping Joe kickstart this exciting journey.

A special shoutout goes to Rich Egber and Alexandra Flowers from Probus Greater Hartford for presenting Joe with the Supporting Special Needs Education grant — your support is helping turn dreams into reality.

Get ready, Hartford — DJ Star is here to light up the city with music and joy!

We had the pleasure of getting invited to TANGO'S Nonprofit Night at the Yard Goats Stadium, Dunkin' Park! 

Get Ready for a Wicked Good Time at Harc’s Annual Auction & Gala!

Join us for an unforgettable evening of celebration and generosity at Harc’s 36th Annual Auction & Gala. This year’s theme, On the Road to 75, sets the stage for show-stopping entertainment, exciting auction packages, and heartfelt moments—all in support of Harc’s mission to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Early bird tickets are available now—don’t miss your chance to save! Enter code: HARCGALA25 to save $25 dollars off your ticket.

Don't forget to follow us!