CCARC: Making Dreams Happen
Since 1996, American Savings Foundation has awarded over $1 million for programs and services that provide support for individuals with disabilities.
About CCARC
Founded in 1952, CCARC, Inc. has a longstanding history of service to individuals with intellectual disabilities related to Down Syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy and genetic disorders as well as hearing impairments, blindness and physical disabilities. CCARC serves over 200 individuals in the Greater New Britain area ranging in age from 18 until end of life and employs nearly 300 staff members.
The private nonprofit offers a variety of services including residential group homes, day services, supported employment, recreation, client advocacy and transition services for high school graduates with disabilities. Day Services provide a range of opportunities for socialization, acquiring and refining skills, participating in community activities, volunteering, and securing paid employment.
Residential Services are dedicated to supporting the emotional, physical, social, and medical needs of individuals living in CCARC’s 11 group homes located in neighborhoods throughout Central Connecticut. These homes offer a safe, comfortable, family-style environment where people can share life together and be part of their community.
American Savings Foundation's Support
In 2001, American Savings Foundation awarded one of its first-ever Capital Grants to CCARC toward the construction of their new headquarters in New Britain.
This state-of-the-art, fully accessible facility features spaces dedicated to teaching life skills and offering a range of opportunities for people with disabilities. Now nearly 20 years old, the building continues to be the heart of CCARC’s programs and services.
The Foundation again supported CCARC in 2018 with a capital grant toward a major effort to update nine of their residential homes. This included accessible bathrooms and kitchens, energy efficiency upgrades such as new windows, and safety enhancements.
Meet Claudia
Claudia has been part of CCARC for more than fifteen years. Because her family lives out-of-state, being able to live at one of CCARC’s group homes where she is comfortable and respected means the world to Claudia. She will gladly tell you that she just loves her home and is grateful to be part of a cohesive group of individuals who enjoy spending time together.
Over the past year, this house has been totally renovated inside and out, with support from American Savings Foundation, other funders, and community members. The transformation has made a wonderful difference in the everyday lives of the residents. Accessible bathrooms, new windows, siding, and flooring are among the many updates. Claudia especially loves the new kitchen where she likes to help prepare meals. In her own words “It is so beautiful!”