Mission: HARC helps people with intellectual disabilities and their families enjoy lives of quality, inclusion and dignity by providing support, education and advocacy.
Background: HARC was founded in 1951 by parents of children with intellectual disability long before programs and services were available in the community. The organization assists persons with intellectual disability and their families by advocating for their human and civil rights and by providing community-based services throughout their lives. Those services include infant education, family support, residential services, employment opportunities, respite care, children’s and adults’ recreation, summer camp, adult day services, a behavioral health clinic, elderly enrichment and advocacy.
HARC’s programs have national accreditation and licenses. Though HARC has become a large, multiservice organization, it retains a strong family flavor. The board of directors consists of committed community leaders including parents, adult siblings, and self-advocates.
HARC serves more than 2,225 individuals annually. It partners with area companies that operate approximately 28 supported-employment sites. It also operates 11 group homes and condominiums, and seven residential support settings.
HARC is funded by a variety of sources including the State of Connecticut, United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut, foundations and individual donors.
Major Fundraisers: Annual Walkathon on May 17 at Iron Horse Boulevard in Simsbury; Annual Benefit Auction on Nov. 7 at the Hartford/Windsor Marriott.
Volunteer Needs: Volunteers intereseted in fundraising events should contact Jenna Rompelman at (860) 218 6089 or jrompelman@harc-ct.org.
Leadership:
Seth B. Fierston, chairman, board of directors;
Stephen Becker, president and CEO;
Stanley Ingersoll, chief operating officer;
Robert Bowsza, chief financial officer;
Holly Brooks, vice president, administration;
Joyce Peters, vice president, programs and services;
Gregory Grant, vice president, resident supports;
Jennifer Meligonis DeJohn, director of development
Contact Information:
HARC Inc.
900 Asylum Ave.
Hartford, CT 06105
Telephone: (860) 218-6000
Web site: www.harc-ct.org
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Stephen Becker is president and CEO of HARC.
