Dear Friend:       

 

We trust you and your family are well. Although the world has seemed pretty dark the past several months, these difficult circumstances have served as a backdrop for our friends and supporters to truly shine.

 

With each challenge we faced—our donors, Board, staff and even strangers extended tremendous grace and generosity to CCARC. Their heartfelt desire to ensure the safety and well-being of people with intellectual disabilities was tangible—our spirits were buoyed! 

 

Here are just a few of the ways people have “let their light shine”:

 

When the state required nonprofit providers like CCARC temporarily discontinue Day Services, our staff shifted into action.  Many of our Day employees were redeployed to our group homes and apartment settings. Not only did their schedules change, but strict protocols were put in place.  Everyone adapted without complaint…including the individuals who live in our homes.

 

“PPE”—prior to March of this year most of us had never even heard of this acronym! People we barely knew eagerly sewed masks and donated gloves and disinfectant products.

 

CCARC’s two special events raise critical funds in support of our services. Although we needed to cancel our spring fundraiser “When You Wish Upon a Star” each of our sponsors and ticket holders allowed us to keep their donations. We were overjoyed!  Initially we struggled with whether to go forward with our 50th Annual Golf Open in September. Let’s just say we are very glad we did! The support from our sponsors and the community was unparalleled. It was our most successful Golf Open ever! 

 

The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain and the United Way awarded CCARC Covid-19 emergency grants for the purchase of IT equipment to help us ensure social distancing with the individuals participating in our services. These wonderful funding sources shone their light on the prevailing issues and responded with practical solutions.

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And what about the people CCARC supports?

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We have been amazed by just how resilient they have proven to be. Their lives were disrupted just like the rest of ours—perhaps even more so. Quarantines dictated they were not allowed to visit with others outside of their families or group homes. 

  

Now 81, Fred has lived at our group home for people who are deaf or hearing impaired for many years.

  

In response, our staff devised a variety of creative activities which allowed people to stay healthy both mentally and physically and have fun! As time went on, the Day Services team began offering daily interactive classes via Zoom which allowed people to “see” and communicate with their friends.  We continue to offer these very popular “virtual get-togethers”— especially for those still at home with their families.

 

Sharing countless hours caring for those in our group homes has allowed our Direct Support Professionals to get to know the people we support on an even deeper level. The extra attention has helped certain individuals be more relaxed and better able to communicate their needs and emotions. In addition, Day and Residential staff have developed a greater understanding of their different roles.

 

Day Services gradually began to reopen in mid-July and the individuals who rejoined the program are thrilled to be at CCARC again! However, with less than 60% of the 175 people we normally support having returned, we are now experiencing the repercussions of reduced state funding. We miss them and are hopeful that more will be able to come back soon. While we were grateful that the State Department of Developmental Services advised us to not lay off our staff, CCARC is definitely feeling the pinch. Additional costs associated with following Covid-19 protocols are ongoing, as well. 

 

Providing services for people with intellectual disabilities is not optional—it is essential. In the midst of this pandemic, CCARC remained open and our employees gladly adjusted their lives to make sure everyone was safe and well-cared for. Without a doubt, they are among the “heroes” we should all celebrate! 

 

Thank you for your kindness and concern for people with disabilities. With your generous support we will continue to fulfill our mission day after day—and night after night.  If you would prefer to make your contribution on-line, please go to www.ccarc.com – Donate Now. We truly appreciate every gift. All of us at CCARC send our warmest wishes for a joyful holiday season.