Events
Throughout the year, we’ll be celebrating this legacy with a series of special events, community initiatives, and stories that honor the people, partnerships, and progress that have shaped our journey. Join us as we commemorate 75 years of compassion, inclusion, and advocacy — and look ahead to an even brighter future.
Our History
Before organizations like CCARC existed, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) were often institutionalized, isolated from their families and communities, and denied opportunities for education, employment, and independence.
In 1952, a group of determined families in New Britain challenged this reality. They believed their children deserved an education and a meaningful life. From that grassroots effort, CCARC was born.
Key Milestones
1952 – CCARC founded by families advocating for children with IDD.
1950s – First public-school program for children with IDD in New Britain.
1960s – First adult education classes launched.
1970s – United Way golf tournament becomes major fundraiser; first CEO hired.
1980s – First federally approved group home built; Supported Employment begins.
1990s – Self-advocacy group “Yes, I Can” formed; person-centered planning introduced.
2000s – CCARC Foundation established; new Education & Training Center opens.
2010s – $2M raised for Home Improvement Initiative; 11 group homes refurbished.
2020s – Supported Housing apartments open; new employment programs launched.
Future Initiatives
As we celebrate this milestone, we’re laying the foundation for Growing Independence by creating and building Transitional Housing — Redefining Supportive Living.
We are actively planning and developing the framework for what our future transitional independent living model will look like.
This welcoming apartment-style environment within the structure of a house will offer adults with IDD the opportunity for self-directed living. Residents will be empowered to manage their own lives within a supportive and fully accessible community.
Our transitional home will provide tailored care designed to complement and grow each person’s independence.
Kickoff Celebration
June 1, 2026 – Tunxis Golf Course Pavilion
75th Anniversary Wine & Bourbon Tasting
More details coming soon.
For 75 years, CCARC has grown like a thriving vineyard—deeply rooted in the community and dedicated to nurturing lives with care and purpose. Just as grapes flourish when tended with patience and intention, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) thrive when given the right environment to grow.
This special event marks the official kickoff of our year-long 75th anniversary celebration, following our Annual Golf Tournament. Together, we’ll raise a glass to decades of impact and unveil our newest initiative: a transitional home designed to help people with IDDs blossom into independent living. It’s the next branch of our legacy—providing tailored support and fostering meaningful community connections. Join us as we celebrate the past, embrace the present, and cultivate a future full of vitality!
Sponsorship Opportunities
$10K Legacy Vine Sponsor
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Title Recognition: Legacy Sponsor of the 75th Anniversary Wine & Bourbon Tasting
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Logo on all Event Collateral
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Exclusively Branded Tasting Lounge or VIP Area
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Speaking Opportunity at Event
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10 VIP Tickets
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Spotlight on Social Media
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Spotlight in Quarterly E-Newsletter
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Branded Merchandise in Gift Bags
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Logo on Website
$5K Foundation Barrel Sponsor
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6 General Admission Tickets
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Logo on Select Signage and Digital Materials
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Co-branded Tasting Station
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Mentions on Social Media Posts
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Logo in Event Program
$2.5K Framework Trellis Sponsor
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4 General Admission Tickets
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Co-branded Tasting Station
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Mentions on Social Media Posts
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Logo in Event Program
$1K Milestone Vintage Sponsor
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2 General Admission Tickets
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Name in Event Program
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Opportunity to Provide Branded Items or Raffle Prizes
$250 Tasting Tee Sponsor
Add-On Opportunity
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Recognition at one hole on the course for the 56th Annual Golf Tournament
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Recognition in 75th Annual Celebration program