Earlier this month, we celebrated Direct Support Professional Recognition Week. It was a chance to say thank you for everything you do, and I hope it felt meaningful. We shared some fun, good food, and a few small gestures to help people feel appreciated. It will never be enough, but I hope it was a good start. 

The truth is, this work can be demanding. It requires skill, patience, heart, and a steady commitment that can sometimes go unnoticed. But at Harc, we see it, we see you. We recognize what our DSPs do every day to keep people safe, connected, and supported. You are vital to everything we do. 

While that week of recognition was happening here at home, I was in Washington, D.C., for Hill Day with The Alliance and ANCOR. I joined nonprofit leaders from across the country to meet with members of Congress and their staff. We discussed wages, the workforce crisis, and what it takes to make this work sustainable not just now, but for the future. 

What stays with me is how many people still do not fully understand what a DSP does. That is a problem. This work happens quietly, without a spotlight. In homes. On sidewalks. In grocery stores. It is easy to overlook unless you are paying attention. That is why advocacy matters. Because the people doing this work every day should not have to explain why it matters. It should be obvious. It should be respected. And it should be supported at every level. 

To every DSP reading this, thank you. For your presence. For your care. For your commitment. You are the reason so many people live lives of quality, inclusion, and dignity. 

To every staff member, family, and friend standing with you, thank you for supporting this mission with us. 

We will continue showing up. We will continue speaking out. And we will keep building something we can all be proud of together. 

- Russell Coleman
 President & CEO

This September, we had the honor and joy of celebrating Direct Support Professionals Appreciation Week, and we promised our staff that we wouldn't disappoint. From start to finish, it was a week filled with heartfelt appreciation, fun surprises, and well-deserved recognition for the amazing employees who form the heart of Harc. 

Monday: A Stylish Start 

We kicked off the week by gifting our DSPs custom Harc-logoed lunch box coolers, bento boxes. It was a practical and stylish token of appreciation, perfect for carrying a favorite lunch or snack. A small gesture to make their days just a bit easier and brighter. 

Tuesday: The Sweetest Treat 

What's better than ice cream on a late summer day? A whole ice cream truck, of course! We brought this nostalgic treat right to our staff, serving up scoops of joy with smiles all around. Laughter, connection, and dessert. Tall Man's Ice Cream was a hit with everyone! 

Wednesday: A Taste of Thanks 

Midweek brought another surprise with a $50 gift card to Wood-N-Tap, one of our local favorites. Whether for lunch with a colleague or dinner with family, we wanted our DSPs to enjoy a meal on us. Because they nourish the lives of others every day, and they deserve to be nourished too. 

Thursday: A Celebration to Remember 

On Thursday, we gathered under the sun at beautiful Camp Courant in Farmington for an Italian-inspired catered buffet dinner. Staff and families came together to share laughter, delicious food, and deep gratitude. There were games, good times, tasteful music and plenty of smiles. 

During this special gathering, we proudly presented milestone awards honoring DSPs with 5, 10, 15, even 30 years of dedicated service to Harc. Their commitment is nothing short of extraordinary. We also recognized two outstanding employees with The Corso Award and The Appleton-Storm Award, where the recipients were nominated by their peers for going above and beyond in their service. These awards speak to the compassion, integrity, and excellence of our staff. 

Friday: A BBQ Finale 

We wrapped up the week right here at 900 Asylum Avenue, where our very own President and CEO, Russell Coleman, fired up the grill for an unforgettable BBQ finale. Burgers, hotdogs, and savory sides filled everyone’s plates and bellies. 

And what’s a party without music? Our incredible DJ, DJ Star (aka Joe), a proud participant in our Supported Employment Program, brought the beats and the energy, creating a positive atmosphere that closed out the week on a high note. 

Thank You, DSPs 

To all of our Direct Support Professionals: you are the heart and soul of Harc. Your dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the individuals and families we serve is nothing short of heroic. It takes a special kind of heart to do the work you do and we want to let you know that we see you, we appreciate you, and we celebrate you. 

Thank you for being the light in someone’s day, the strength behind our mission, and the reason Harc continues to thrive. DSP Week was our chance to give back to you, and we hope it reflected just a fraction of the gratitude we feel every single day. 

At Harc, we believe that communication is a bridge to understanding, inclusion, and connection. That’s why this month, we proudly celebrated both International Day of Sign Languages and Deaf Awareness Month, shining a spotlight on the beauty and importance of American Sign Language (ASL) in uniting our diverse community. 

In the video, we introduce you to Stephen, one of our passionate and dedicated Job Coaches at Harc, and Harry, a vibrant and joyful member of our Harc community. Together, they’re taking a moment to teach you a few everyday words in ASL, because inclusion starts with simple steps. 

Watch the video to learn from Stephen and Harry, and discover how powerful just a few signs can be in building connections across all walks of life. Whether you’re greeting someone, offering thanks, or just saying “hello,” learning sign language is a meaningful way to create a more inclusive environment for everyone, especially for members of the Deaf and hardof hearing community. 

Why This Matters 

The International Day of Sign Languages (September 23rd) and Deaf Awareness Month (September) are more than just dates on a calendar; they’re a call to action. A call to recognize the rich culture, history, and contributions of the Deaf community, and to advocate for accessibility and equal opportunities for all. Harc is committed to fostering a space where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported, and embracing ASL is just one of the many ways we live that mission. 

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going 

As we reflect on these celebrations, we encourage you to: learn a few signs and practice them regularly; share the video with friends and family to spread awareness; celebrate and support the Deaf community, not just today, but every day. Together, let’s continue to build bridges, raise awareness, and celebrate the languages that connect us all. 

At Harc, we believe that joy, creativity, and a little bit of silliness go a long way, especially when it comes to building morale and celebrating the individuals we serve. That’s why Wacky Hat Wednesday was such a fun day for both staff and individuals. 

From glittery top hats to hats shaped that looked like a magical wonderland (yes, really!), our staff, participants, and families brainstormed and came together to show off their wildest, wackiest headwear. There were laughs, compliments flying, and even a few spontaneous runway walks as everyone proudly strutted their stuff. 

Whether it was a mini top hat, feathered, oversized, or handmade, every hat was a chance for self-expression and more importantly, a symbol of the creativity and spirit that shines through our Harc family. 

On August 29th, Harc participant and longtime Special Olympics Connecticut (SOCT) athlete Hector Sanchez rappelled down the 34-story Sky Tower at Mohegan Sun as part of SOCT’s annual “Over the Edge” fundraiser. It marked his second time participating in the high-adrenaline event, and once again, Hector showed what courage, commitment, and community look like in action. 

Hector, who received services through Harc, has been involved with Special Olympics since middle school, beginning his journey in 2007. During his time at East Hartford Public Schools, he participated in cross-country skiing and track and field under the guidance of Coach Ken Bragg. 

When it came time to graduate, Hector was determined to continue his athletic career. Coach Bragg introduced him to Tahj McCall, a Coach and Local Coordinator for the Special Olympics Hartford program. That introduction led Hector to a new chapter in his Special Olympics journey, joining the Hartford team, where he remained an active athlete for years. 

Over time, Hector grew into a versatile and well-rounded athlete. In addition to skiing and track & field, he competed in softball, floor hockey, basketball, and soccer. In the lead-up to this year’s Special Olympics' Fall Festival, Hector was training for the softball skills competition as part of the Unified Sports program. 

But Hector’s involvement didn’t stop at sports. He also served as a Special Olympics Global Messenger, acting as a spokesperson and ambassador for the organization. “I loved being a role model, speaking to other people around me, and helping others,” Hector shared. 

When asked, how do you mentally prepare for such an endeavor, Hector replied saying, “Stay focused and calm. Don’t panic, and you won’t quit.” 

Hector’s first rappel took place in 2024. That experience was especially emotional, his aunt had passed away on the very same day. Carrying the cross she had given him, Hector initially wore it around his neck, but for safety reasons, he tucked it inside his shirt before his descent. He later shared that he felt his aunt’s presence with him, watching over him as he bravely made his way down the tower. 

Despite a fear of heights, Hector completed the rappel and overcame a deeply personal and physical challenge. His courage inspired not just his teammates, but the entire Harc and Special Olympics communities. 

This year, Hector returned to the tower not just as an athlete, but as a symbol of strength, resilience, and the spirit of inclusion that defines both Harc and Special Olympics. 

Stretch, Child’s Pose, and Namaste; it’s time for Life Enrichment Program (L.E.P.)! Our incredible and innovative Job Coaches led a relaxing and rejuvenating Chair Yoga session in celebration of Senior Week at Harc. 

Participants enjoyed gentle stretches, calming breaths, and moments of mindfulness—all from the comfort of a chair. It was the perfect way to refresh both body and mind, while celebrating the strength, spirit, and joy of our seniors. 

There’s nothing quite like yoga to bring a sense of calm and connection, and at Harc, we believe wellness and enrichment go hand in hand. 

It’s getting hot over here at Harc...and we’re not just talking about the weather! The Champions of Cheer Committee turned up the heat by arranging for Fuego Picante Food truck to come visit Harc.

From burritos and tacos to nachos and more, the menu was packed with mouthwatering Mexican and Puerto Rican dishes that had everyone lining up for seconds. The aroma, the spice, the flavor, what better way to head into the weekend than with a fiesta for your taste buds? 

Delicious food, great company, and a little lunchtime salsa spirit made this a Friday to remember.  

Huge thanks to Champions of Cheer for keeping our team smiling, and well-fed! 

The countdown is on! Harc’s 36th Annual Auction & Gala is right around the corner, and this year promises to be bigger, bolder, and more meaningful than ever. With the theme “On the Road to 75,” we’re not just celebrating another year—we’re celebrating a legacy of inclusion, empowerment, and transformation. 

Join us for an evening filled with show-stopping entertainment, unforgettable moments, and the incredible energy that only the Harc community can bring. Our event will be held at the Hartford Gulf Club in West Hartford, and we assure you that this venue is top notch. This is more than a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of lives changed, and futures made brighter. 

We are thrilled to welcome back the ever-inspiring Keith McGilvery, Hartford’s own beloved community personality, as our Emcee and Auctioneer. His genuine heart, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering support for people of all abilities make him a perfect match for Harc’s mission. Keith brings more than charisma, he brings compassion, connection, and a spirit of joy that lights up the room. 

And the night wouldn’t be complete without music that moves your soul and your feet! We’re excited to feature the sensational Authority Band, known for their electric performances and infectious energy. From start to finish, this will be the musical event of the year. 

Guests will enjoy: 

A variety of exclusive auction packages from luxury getaways to local experiences! There will be a raffle with exciting prizes you won't want to miss, delicious food and drinks served in an atmosphere full of fun and elegance, plenty of opportunities to mingle, connect, and give back!

Your Impact: Changing Lives One Bid at a Time 

Behind every smile, every dance, and every toast of the evening lies a deeper purpose, supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the families who love them. 

Your support at the Gala helps Harc continue to: 

💠Improve transportation services for greater independence 

💠Enhance group home living spaces for safety and comfort 

💠Fund enriching summer camp experiences 

Expand job training and employment programs that open real-world opportunities, and so much more… Every dollar raised is a step forward on the road to inclusion, dignity, and possibility for the people Harc serves!

As Harc approaches its 75th anniversary, this Gala marks not just a celebration, but a movement. It’s a moment for our community to come together, to stand in unity, and to advocate for a future where everyone, regardless of ability, has the tools, the support, and the love they need to thrive. 

So, gather your friends, dust off your dancing shoes, and get ready for a wicked good time with purpose! 

We can’t wait to celebrate, honor, and dream big with you. Let’s get wickedly excited and eager to raise the funds to keep changing lives, one person, one family, one future at a time. You can purchase your tickets now by clicking the button above! 

We would like to share an exciting opportunity for you and your loved ones. For this year's program journal, we would like to feature a family section with photos and a little text about some of our beloved Harc residents/program participants and/or their dedicated staff!

Would you be interested in participating? If you provide a concept, photo and/or some text, we can draft up a sample for your review.

We are offering the following options: 

A $50 donation for a business-card size feature 

A $125 donation for a quarter-page size feature

A $250 donation for a half-page feature

A $500 donation for a full-page feature

For more information please contact: Lucy Inghilterra at linghilterra@harc-ct.org

Click here for information about this year's gala.