For far too long, individuals with disabilities have faced barriers to
meaningful employment, often being underpaid, underemployed, or left out of
the workforce entirely. At Harc, we are committed to changing that reality. The people we support have the skills, dedication, and determination to contribute, yet they need opportunities.

We know that businesses benefit from diverse and inclusive workplaces,
and we are asking for your support in expanding employment opportunities for the individuals we serve. Whether through direct hiring, job training partnerships, or advocating for more inclusive hiring practices, your involvement can change lives.

Our 13th Annual Have A Harc Day reinforced just how critical this issue is. Families, staff, and individuals shared powerful stories about the challenges they face, including limited job options, lack of accessible transportation, and the need for stronger workforce development programs. A special thank you to Representative Jillian Gilchrest for providing a platform to amplify these voices and support our advocacy efforts.

We need business leaders, hiring managers, and community partners to be part of the solution. If your company has job openings, internships, or training programs, we encourage you to connect with us. Your commitment can help break down long-standing barriers and create real, lasting change.

Together, we can ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to the fair wages, opportunities, and respect they deserve in the workplace.

Thank you for supporting Harc’s mission and standing with us in this important work.

-Russell

For over two decades, KBE Building Corporation and Harc have not just been partners—they’ve been family. In a world where relationships often come and go, the bond between KBE and Harc has only grown stronger, proving that true success isn’t measured by profits or projects, but by the lives we touch along the way.

Founded in 1959, KBE is a national construction services firm with a reputation for excellence in construction management, general contracting, and design-build services. However, it is their commitment to inclusivity and empowering people with intellectual disabilities that truly sets them apart.

As Michael Kolakowski, President & CEO of KBE, reflects, “One big success is our relationship with Harc. Our two Harc employees and their manager have been part of the KBE family for over 20 years.” This heartfelt statement speaks volumes about the depth of the relationship between KBE and Harc—one that goes beyond a simple partnership and into the realm of something truly meaningful.

In 2017, KBE’s dedication to their Harc partners was once again evident when they provided a much-needed update to the Harc Building at 900 Asylum Ave—installing new carpeting that brought both a fresh aesthetic and a renewed sense of pride to the space. 

Among those who have benefitted from KBE’s generosity and support is William Tacy. A proud participant in Harc’s Supported Employment program, William has been a part of KBE’s team for over 20 years. From restocking snacks to sending out mail, making coffee to keeping the meeting rooms spotless, William’s dedication and hard work have made a lasting impact. And it’s not just the tasks he completes—it’s the spirit he brings to the workplace. Gabe Soucy, Supervisor of Administration at KBE, shares, “Every time I come into work and see Suijit bright smile and William’s strong work ethic, It makes a huge impact on our company culture.”

This shared sense of responsibility and mutual respect is what truly makes KBE stand out. The individuals from Harc are not just “employees.” They are a crucial part of the KBE family. Their work is celebrated, and their contributions are valued. KBE’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment shines through in every interaction, whether it’s assisting with everyday tasks or taking on more significant projects like decorating the office for Valentine’s Day. Andrea Comstock-Tague, Vice President of Human Resources at KBE, notes, “It’s important to have inclusion in the workplace, and Harc’s individuals help make the company culture even stronger and more inclusive.”

KBE’s dedication to inclusion goes beyond the workplace, too. In 2023, William’s passion for NASCAR came full circle in a beautiful moment of recognition. KBE’s project with NASCAR’s Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum led to a heartwarming surprise for William—
a company hard hat autographed by American race car driver Ross Chastain and a
CLASH sticker signed by driver Kyle Larson. The joy on William’s face when he received
these tokens of appreciation from KBE’s CEO, Michael Kolakowski, and the team was priceless. It was a moment of pure connection, a reminder that KBE isn’t just about building structures—it’s about building relationships that last a lifetime.

Inclusion at KBE isn’t just about providing work—it’s about creating an environment
where everyone, regardless of ability, feels valued, respected, and empowered to
thrive. The opportunities KBE has provided for Harc’s individuals extend far
beyond a paycheck. They foster a sense of community, self-worth, and, most
importantly, belonging. The work of William, Suijit, and the many others involved in the Supported Employment program has shown us that when we come together as a community, we are capable of achieving incredible things—both in business and in life.

We are eternally grateful to KBE for continuing to create opportunities for our
individuals, for treating them as family, and for showing us all that inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the best thing to do. Here’s to many more years of collaboration,
celebration, and building a future where everyone has a place to belong.

Left, Miguel  & Charles at Harc

Charles Jones, a dedicated job coach at Harc, began his new role on September 9, 2024, after a fulfilling 29-year career with the Department of Developmental Services. Before retiring three years ago, Charles had spent nine years supervising a group home in Newington. Though retirement seemed like the perfect opportunity to rest, boredom soon crept in, and Charles found himself longing to return to a field where he could
make a meaningful impact in people's lives. It was then that he found his calling again, this time at Harc, where he works as a 1:1 job coach with Miguel, an inspiring individual who has overcome significant challenges. 

Miguel is a vibrant 53-year-old man that enjoys puzzles, arts and crafts and helping out with multiple tasks. He has been struggling with significant challenges throughout the years, to the point it was very difficult to get him out in the community and be engaged with the outside world. A lot of the times Miguel would only want to stay indoors and do some puzzles and crafts, but he would get tired of the task very easily and then lay on the bean bag chair. 

Miguel has OCD, and Charles mentioned that he helps him by letting him get out what he needs to get out and then have him get involved in activities with others. For instance, Miguel was able to sit  in a group where they were planting plants and flowers with the program Bloom Where Planted. Charles says that, “now, he likes to try new things, and Miguel is someone who I can help grow.” 

Miguel is non-verbal, and he and Charles have their own communication system. When it is time for Miguel to go to the restroom, Charles points to where the key to the restroom is and has him open the door and Charles would hold his hand out, and Miguel would give him the key. Sometimes, Charles would speak to him in Spanish and say “baño?” which means bathroom, and Miguel would already know what to do.  

Their bond has only deepened with time. Now, Miguel is thriving outside the building, going on outings with Charles and sometimes another job coach with an individual. Together, they explore places like Elizabeth Park and the mall, where Miguel loves to engage with the environment—whether it's smelling perfumes at kiosks or rearranging clothing in stores to his liking. 

Left, Miguel, Charles & Luis at Stew Leonard's

Although Miguel sometimes finds the smell of cows at the UConn Dairy Farm overwhelming, he is always ready for the next

adventure. These outings have become routine, with Miguel going out three to five times a week—an impressive shift

from his previous reluctance to leave the building at all. 

Left, Miguel & Charles at Mount Southington

One of Miguel’s favorite things to do is listen to music, so he would give a soft signal and point to the radio and Charles would turn it on and he would start singing his
heart out. Miguel is also very kind and helpful. He would move some chairs out of
the way for an individual in a wheelchair and put them in their favorite spot at
the table, and when individuals are leaving for the day, he pushes in all the chairs. 

Charles' patient, compassionate approach has been key to Miguel’s growth,
and the changes in Miguel’s life are nothing short of remarkable. With Charles by
his side, Miguel has not only grown in confidence and independence, but he has also
found new ways to engage with the world around him. Their relationship is a
shining example of how patience, understanding, and respect can lead to personal

growth and transformation. 

The evolution of Miguel’s quality of life highlights the power of inclusion, guidance, and trust. With Charles’ unwavering support, Miguel is not only overcoming obstacles but is thriving in ways that once seemed impossible. At Harc, we are grateful to have both Charles and Miguel as part of the Harc family. The smile on Miguel's face every time he comes to the Day Program and sees Charles, is a testament to the incredible progress they’ve made together—a journey full of joy, growth, and possibility. 

Harc is excited to announce its first-ever Dueling Pianos event, set to take place at Thomas Hooker Live on March 19, 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. 

Mark your calendars for March 19, 2025 and join us for a night of music, laughter, and community support.
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. 

Guess who came for a visit!? Senator Lessor! He went to visit our Eastern Group Home on January 11th! 

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. 

Virtual advocacy training session

On Wednesday, January 15th, Harc staff and families gathered, both in
person and virtually, for an informative advocacy training session led by Ben
Shaiken from The Alliance. Ben shared valuable insights on effective advocacy
strategies for individuals with IDD and highlighted useful resources to support
these efforts.

This session marks the beginning of a new series of family support programs
Harc is proud to offer. If you’d like to access a recording of the session, please
contact Marian Leist at mleist@harc-ct.org.

A heartfelt thank you to Ben Shaiken for sharing your time and expertise!

Harc's Artisan Studio presents beautifully handcrafted Wildflower Hearts, each one a testament to the art of nature and
craftsmanship. These enchanting hearts are meticulously crafted by our skilled Artisans, that can be for, a unique, eco-friendly
 gift that’s perfect for any occasion, Ideal for anniversaries, or as a heartfelt gift. Embrace the beauty of wildflowers and love
 with Harc's Artisan Studio! They will be selling for $4.50 and is available online and at Harc for purchase. Just plant and
watch them grow!

Instructions to plant wildflower seed paper:

1. Prepare the pot: Fill a small pot with potting soil or compost.

2. Place the paper: Put a piece of seed paper in the pot or tear it into small pieces.

3. Cover with soil: Lightly cover the paper with soil, about 1/8 inch.

4. Water: Soak the paper and soil with water, but don't let it pool.

5. Put in a sunny spot: Place the pot in a sunny location.

6. Keep moist: Water the paper daily and keep the soil moist until the seedlings are established.

7. Wait for germination: Wildflowers usually germinate in 1–3 weeks.

8. Transfer to a larger pot: If the seeds sprout, you can move them to a larger pot when they are well established.

This past holiday season we were able to spend time for reflection, gratitude, and generosity. Individuals from Explorative Day
Program stepped up to volunteer as Christmas bell ringers for the Salvation Army. They rang the iconic bells at Stop & Shop on
New Park Road in Hartford, helping to raise funds for the Christmas Kettle Campaign. 

The Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle Campaign has become a tradition in communities nationwide, offering a simple yet
 impactful way for people to give back during the holiday season. The funds raised through the kettles support a wide range of
 initiatives aimed at fulfilling the needs of the hungry, the ill, and the lonely. From providing hot meals and emergency
shelter to supporting those in need with essential resources, every dollar dropped in the kettle makes a significant difference and the
 individuals we serve are helping make a difference in the community. 

Our Harc individuals are proudly making a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need. The opportunity to give back, especially
during the season that celebrates kindness, warmth, and goodwill, is an experience that brings people together from
all walks of life. Stay tuned for more about how individuals from Harc will continue to volunteer for the Salvation Army when
they start packaging food to give to the homeless. 

If you have a donor-advised fund (DAF), you can support Harc, Inc., an IRS-qualified public charity. Please follow your fund's
guidelines for minimum contributions and grant recommendations. Our Taxpayer Federal Tax ID (EIN) is 06-0710289,
and checks should be made payable to Harc, Inc. and mailed to:

Harc, Inc.
Philanthropy Department
900 Asylum Avenue
Hartford, CT 06105

What is a Donor-Advised Fund?

A DAF is a philanthropic account established at a public charity that allows donors to make a charitable contribution, receive an immediate tax benefit, and recommend grants to charities over time.

How Does It Work?

Establish your DAF with a tax-deductible donation to a public charity.

Advise the investment allocation of your donated assets (tax-free growth).

Recommend grants to qualified charities of your choice.

3 Easy Steps to Support Harc, Inc. via Your DAF:

Contact your DAF representative to recommend a grant to Harc, Inc.

Email Eloise Mongillo at emongillo@harc-ct.org to inform us about your gift.

For more information, please contact:

Eloise Mongillo
Chief Philanthropy Officer
Harc, Inc.
900 Asylum Avenue
Hartford, CT  06105
860-218-6048
emongillo@harc-ct.org

As we continue into the new year, we invite you to consider making a meaningful contribution to Harc. Your support plays a
crucial role in helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities lead fulfilling lives. Whether through donations to our
 programs, volunteering your time, or sharing our mission with others, your generosity makes a lasting impact in our community.
 Every contribution counts, no matter the size! Let’s close out the year by spreading kindness and empowerment. Thank you for
being a valued part of the Harc family!