March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and at Harc, we take this time to celebrate the incredible individuals we support and highlight the importance of inclusion, respect, and empowerment. While we are proud of the progress we’ve made, we recognize that the support of families, friends, and community members is essential in helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities thrive. 

At Harc, there are many ways to get involved and make a lasting impact. Whether through volunteering, becoming a board member, or joining one of our committees, your support helps us continue to provide meaningful opportunities for the individuals we serve. Here are a few ways you can make a difference: 

▪️Volunteer with Us – Volunteers play a crucial role in our programs. Whether it’s assisting at one of our group homes, helping with activities in our day programs, or supporting events, your time and dedication go a long way in making a positive impact. 

▪️Join a Harc Committee – If you’re looking for a more involved role, consider becoming part of one of our committees. Your skills and perspective can help us better serve the individuals we support and continue to grow as an organization. 

▪️Get Involved with the Harc Board – Joining the Harc Board of Directors allows you to be part of the strategic decisions that guide our mission forward. Your leadership and commitment can help shape the future of Harc and ensure we continue to meet the needs of our community. 

This month, as we celebrate the unique abilities of individuals with disabilities, we invite you to join us in creating a more inclusive world. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of those we support and foster a sense of belonging and opportunity for all. 

🦷Practical oral care is essential for everyone, including those with developmental disabilities, to keep those pearly whites shining!  The Goodwin Dental Hygienist students recently visited Harc and shared some valuable tips with the Transitional Academy on maintaining a healthy smile. 

Here are the 3 Steps to a healthy mouth: 

1) Brush Every Day 
2) Floss Every Day 
3) Visit a Dentist Regularly 

Thank you to the Goodwin Dental students for educating and empowering the individuals we support and teaching them about the importance of everyday dental care! 🪥

March is a time to recognize, celebrate, and uplift individuals with disabilities, ensuring they are not only seen but heard and understood.  We are proud to highlight the incredible strengths, talents, and perseverance within the I/DD  community, and this month, we want to share the stories of two inspiring individuals who embody these qualities. 

Amber, a participant in our Supported Employment Program, is a true advocate for individuals with disabilities. Her journey is a testament to the power of support and determination. Amber’s strength and resilience inspire all who know her, showing that with the right opportunities and resources, individuals with disabilities can thrive and make their voices heard. 

David attends our Supported Employment Program as well,  and is another prime example of self-advocacy. Passionate about supporting others with disabilities, he continuously spreads awareness and encourages all to "Don’t Diss My Ability!" His message goes to show to everyone, reminder of the importance of respect and inclusion for everyone, regardless of ability. 

 Let’s continue to spread kindness and advocate for a more inclusive society. Together, we can ensure that all individuals are recognized for their strengths and given equal opportunities and respect. 

Izaiah is one of the new individuals that we support that attends our Day Program. Even though he is shy and prefers to not be on camera, he decided to step out of his comfort zone and created his own March Madness bracket that you see below. He hopes to share his love of sports with everyone and encourages others to embrace their interests and stay connected with others.

For over two decades, Bruce has been more than just a barber/ hairdresser at Harc—he has been a source of comfort, trust, and empowerment for the individuals we support. The relationship all started with a simple, life-changing conversation with a woman named Paula, who once ran Camp Bulova and the Life Enrichment Program. Paula, knowing Bruce’s talent, asked him one day if he would be interested in cutting hair for the individuals at Harc. Without a second thought, Bruce said “yes,” and since then, he has been offering barbering/ hairdressing services to the community for over 21 years.

One of the most meaningful moments of his long tenure came from an unexpected source: an individual named Mary G. Mary had hair that she never wanted anyone to touch. For years, her hair was a barrier, an area she couldn’t share with anyone. But Bruce, with his gentleness and respect, didn’t give up. He started small—asking if he could touch her hair, then brushing it, followed by a tentative cut. Each time, Mary resisted, but Bruce’s patience never fell short. Over time, he gained her trust. He would spray her hair with a mist of water, slowly nurturing their connection, until one day, Mary let him wash her hair in the sink. It may seem like a simple gesture to some, but to Mary, it was a monumental moment of trust and vulnerability. And then, something remarkable happened. After Bruce flat ironed her hair, she turned to him and said, “You know me, and I know you.” That simple phrase, spoken by a woman who rarely spoke at all, shows the incredible bond they shared—one built on trust, care, and the small, yet significant, acts of kindness Bruce extended every time they met.

When asked what he’s most proud of in his time at Harc, Bruce reflects on the growth of the program. “I am most proud of how the program has continued to grow throughout the years, how many individuals have benefitted from it and are still benefiting from this service at Harc. Also, it is still growing,” he says with a sense of pride that comes from knowing he’s played a part in something that has touched so many lives.

But Bruce’s impact extends beyond just the individuals he serves. He speaks with deep appreciation about how Harc has affected his own life. “I have an appreciation for each of the individuals,” Bruce shares. “Knowing that I am able to make a positive difference in their lives, even for the short time we spend together, makes me appreciate every minute of every day.” It’s clear that for Bruce, the work isn’t just about cutting hair—it’s about making a connection, giving a moment of peace, and offering a bit of care that can last far beyond the chair.

As Bruce reflects on the years, one thing is certain: Harc is forever grateful for the time, energy, and heart he has poured into this community.

His work has changed lives, and he has been an integral part of so many individuals' journeys toward self-expression, confidence, and trust. Bruce’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and the belief that even the smallest act of care can have the most profound impact. We thank you Bruce!

We are beyond excited to share that our very first Dueling Pianos event was an incredible success! The night was full of energy, laughter, and timeless music, and we couldn’t be more grateful to everyone who made it possible. 

The talented Savage Pianos absolutely brought down the house with their dynamic performance. With two electric pianos, a fiddle, saxophone, drums, and even a harmonica, they created an atmosphere of pure fun and excitement that had everyone on their feet and singing along, and there was even a conga line! Their performance truly became the heart of the event and made for an unforgettable experience for all who attended. 

We were also thrilled to have Fox 61’s Anchor and long-time friend of Harc, Keith McGilvery, as our emcee for the evening. Keith’s energy and passion for our cause shone through as he kept the crowd engaged and provided live footage of the event. His continued support of Harc and his commitment to helping our community understand the work we do for individuals and families is something we deeply appreciate. 

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters and the fantastic atmosphere of the event, we raised over $3,000 to continue supporting Harc's mission. This was made possible by all of you who joined us for a midweek pick-me-up—your presence and contributions are what allow us to keep making a difference in the lives of the people we serve. 

Looking ahead, we are already planning for next year’s event! We’re hopeful that the Dueling Pianos will become an annual tradition that will continue to bring friends, family, and the entire community together for a grand time of music, fun, and giving back. 

A huge thank you to Thomas Hooker Live for hosting our event at their amazing venue, where guests enjoyed delicious food and drinks all evening. The warm and welcoming atmosphere helped make our event feel even more special. 

Thank you again to everyone who made this night a resounding success! We couldn’t have done it without you, and we can’t wait to do it all again next year. 

Until then, stay tuned for more updates, and as always, thank you for supporting Harc and the individuals and families we serve. 

These two lucky ladies were the winners of the Champions of Cheer funded raffle for tickets to the Dueling Pianos event on Wednesday March 19th. Annie Menefee, a Residential Support Assistant at Harc’s Prospect house, entered the raffle for two free tickets to the event. She brought along her daughter, Shadá Menefee, an accomplished interior designer (check her out at www.flourishbyshada.com). The duo enjoyed an evening of music, wine, food and fun.

The Champions of Cheer committee purchased tickets ($39 each) and held the raffle hoping to get some of our employees to come out and enjoy the evening. The committee is always looking for ways to recognize and reward Harc employees and welcomes your feedback. How would you like to be recognized and rewarded? 

Do you have a great idea? Please let Tara Hernandez know at: thernandez@harc-ct.org or 860-218-6142.

Harc volunteers have been working hard to package emergency food boxes for those displaced by natural disasters such as fires, flooding, and other unforeseen circumstances. Volunteers went to the Salvation Army Headquarters in Hartford, showing their dedication to helping those in need during difficult times. These essential food boxes provide much-needed support for individuals and families affected by disasters, ensuring they have access to the basics to assist them during their difficult time Stay tuned for more updates on exciting volunteer opportunities our Harc folks are taking a vital part in the community! 

Join us at the Hartford Yard Goats Dunkin Park for Harc's annual Walk N' Roll event. Come together with the Harc community for a day filled with games, activities, snacks, and more! Registration is free, and there will be fun for all ages and abilities. All proceeds will allow Harc to grow our fleet of wheelchair accessible lift vans!

Harc’s mission is to provide support for a lifetime to individuals with intellectual and related disabilities and their families so they may enjoy lives of quality, inclusion, and dignity. But we can only fulfill our mission with your support.

When you register, you'll have the opportunity to create a fundraising team or donate to an existing team to further Harc's mission during our annual Walk N' Roll event. By creating a team fundraiser you'll be able to mobilize your family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers to help the Harc community. Your support of an existing team will help us expand employment and recreational activities for the people we serve, and reach everyone in our community who needs Harc's programs and services.

In this fun and informative 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!