Community and Family Information

HARC was founded by families and continues its commitment to them. Consistent with its grassroots history, the board of directors is comprised of a majority of parents, adult siblings and self advocates. Other community leaders serve on the board to provide expertise and guidance.

When a family learns that their child has intellectual disability, HARC is ready to assist with information and support. We define family support as whatever it takes to keep a family together.

Social Work

Service Coordination and Advocacy:  There are many public and private agencies that are available to assist families.  HARC works closely with the Department of Developmental Services, the Department of Social Services, Department of Children And Families, local schools and private agencies.  HARC helps families negotiate the complex systems that are available to help their children.

Advocacy:  Family Support Coordinators attend meetings with the Department of Developmental Services or local schools to assist with person-centered planning. It is our goal to assist parents in becoming effective advocates for their children. Services are available in English and Spanish.  In addition to providing advocacy for individuals and their families, HARC also advocates for system wide changes through governmental action. Click here for the Governmental Affairs page.

Information and Referral:  HARC maintains an extensive resource library. We also help families locate additional resources and make referrals when appropriate. Our follow-along services prevent families from "falling through the cracks". We work with Section 8 housing, food banks, the Salvation Army as well as other local agencies to help families meet basic needs.

Family Supports

Respite Care: In-home and out-of-home respite for short or extended periods of time can be arranged for people of all ages.

Parent Support Groups: HARC conducts a variety of parent support groups. Groups offer opportunities to meet other families and learn from their experiences. Educational programs include: special education law, sexuality, challenging behaviors, estate planning, and transition services. Problem focused groups are conducted which target particular issues such as: Coping with Siblings,  Dealing with Adolescence and issues surrounding "letting go."

Recreation:  HARC offers a wide variety of inclusive recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. For adults we publish a monthly calendar of activities including Unified Special Olympics. There are a variety of summer and winter programs for school age children.  Click here for more information on Recreation.

Public Education

Best Buddies:  Best Buddies is a peer-to-peer program that matches college students from St. Joseph College and Trinity College with our young adults.  Everyone participates in community activities coordinated by Best Buddies of Ct, the University Chapters and the pairs throughout the Fall and Spring semesters.

Kids on the Block:  Volunteers visit schools in the Greater Hartford area and present puppet shows for school children using life-size puppets that illustrate a broad range of disabilities and respond to typically asked questions. Click here if you would be interested in volunteering to become a puppeteer.

Membership is required to participate in respite, adult recreation and to receive family support and advocacy services. To add your name to our mailing list and to obtain membership information, please contact: