Frequently Asked Questions
If I want HARC services for myself or a family member, who do I call?
Individuals interested in receiving any service(s) or investigating the services offered, should contact the HARC Outreach Development Coordinator at (315) 574-7000. The Coordinator can help individuals or families substantiate developmental disabilities. In addition, the Coordinator links families with services and/or provide a direction of where to begin with services. If individuals are already determined to be eligible, but wish to access some of the HARC services listed on this site for themselves or family members, or if they are Service Coordinators from a different agency—the Outreach Development Coordinator can assist in applying for or accessing programs.
Does HARC serve just people with mental retardation?
No, HARC serves individuals with many types of developmental disabilities including: Autism, Cerebral Palsy, and Epilepsy, among others. We also serve those with physical and psychiatric disabilities, learning disabilities, and traumatic brain injury (TBI). HARC also provides services for the families of those with disabilities through respite, guardianship, parenting, employment, and prevention services.
If HARC is funded through Medicaid, why do you need to fundraise?
While New York State does reimburse HARC for the services we provide, it only pays for the services it deems as “necessary.” We believe that it is our services that go above and beyond that make HARC a special place for our consumers and our community. Programs that we offer that are un-funded through Medicaid include: Guardianship, Spirituality, and Prevention. In addition, our respite, recreation, and residential programs are enhanced tremendously through support beyond what New York State reimburses.
There can’t be too many people who need your services in Herkimer County.
On the contrary, HARC’s trained and caring staff provides services for more than 600 people in Herkimer County. Studies indicate that 2% of our population has a developmental disability. This would mean that more than 1,200 people in Herkimer County would be eligible for our services. In addition, we employ more than 400 people to provide $20+ million in services—making HARC the second largest employer in Herkimer County.
How can I become involved at HARC?
HARC is always looking for individuals willing to donate their time: whether it is playing bingo at the Senior Center, serving on a specific committee, or assisting with one of HARC’s fundraisers. All HARC volunteers are screened to ensure the safety of the individuals we serve. Contact HARC’s Director of Human Resources at (315) 574-7000 for more information.
Additionally, individuals and their family members can become an HARC Life is Beautiful member to support our “voice” to advocate for the individuals we serve at both the state and national levels. Membership costs are minimal. For more information, contact HARC’s Director of Community Relations & Fund Development at (315) 574-7000.
How can I financially support the meaningful programs at HARC?
HARC invites individuals and businesses from the community, along with staff and families, to support unfunded or under-funded programs with their financial support. For more information on the various ways you can donate to HARC, please see the “Support HARC” section of our web site or contact HARC’s Director of Community Relations & Fund Development at (315) 574-7000.
