Our History

LARC began in 1964, when a small group of parents united because they wanted a better life for their children.  Like all parents, they had hopes and dreams that their sons and daughters would be valued, develop friendships, and become part of the community.  From this networking and advocacy, a daycare opened on Riverside Avenue and the Torrington Area Association for Retarded Children, as we were then known, was born in 1964.

In 1966, parents of adolescent and adult children saw the success of the nursery school program.  As a result of their networking, Lark Industries, a sheltered workshop for individuals began.  Over the years, LARC emphasized competitive employment for individuals in the community.

Between 1984 and 1989, four community group homes were developed in Torrington, Litchfield, Harwinton, and Winsted.  A program supporting individuals in apartments soon followed. 

LARC ran a successful day camp for 45 years for children with special needs.  Camp LARC, as it was then known, was a partnership with other organizations.  At that time, Camp LARC focused specifically on children and teens with special needs.  In 2011, LARC formed Camp  MOE, an outdoor day camp for all children.  It was one of the first camps in  New England that provided an inclusive setting where all campers were welcome.

Today, approximately 200 individuals throughout Litchfield County benefit from LARC’s programs and services on a daily basis.