Rocco R. Tricarico, JD Executive Director

2016 Annual Report

Dr. Catherine R. Baratta

Board President

Private Sector

Dr. Catherine R. Baratta Kim Lawther Jackson

Peggy Lampkin Kevin Nodell

Kenneth Speyer

Public Sector

Sharon Baretta Stacey Rosado

Francisco Santiago

Neighborhood Sector

Alton Brooks Letisha Esnard Lourdes Rivera Gladys Willis

HRA Board of Directors Officers

Dr. Catherine R. Baratta, President Kim Lawther Jackson, Vice President

Gladys Willis, Secretary Kevin Nodell, Treasurer

Demonstrating measurable outcomes.

Human Resources Agency of New Britain, Inc. (HRA) was established in 1964 as one of Connecticut’s community action agencies. Today we are a multi-service organization delivering

30 results-driven programs that provide prevention, intervention and emergency services.

Streamlined and integrated assistance to

those we serve.

Early Childhood; Emergency Assistance;

Employment & Training; Energy & Housing;

Financial; and Health & Wellness services work

together; with our funders; our colleagues;

and our volunteers to maximize resources.

Board of Directors representing our community - with members from private, public and neighborhood sectors

The mission of the Human Resources Agency of New Britain, Inc. (HRA) is to improve the quality of life by helping people achieve economic and social potential; responding to the causes and conditions of poverty; and building stronger

individuals, families and communities in the greater New Britain area.

TOP 10 RESULTS 2015-2016

HRA, in partnership with its funders and community colleagues helped nearly 25,000 residents in the greater New Britain area move closer to self-sufficiency.

From Rocco & Cathy As we enter our new 2016-2017 year we’re excited to announce a new venture that we’ve been planning since 2012. On October 1, 2016 the Human Resources Agency of New Britain, Inc. (HRA) and the Bristol Community Organization (BCO) will merge operations, with HRA becoming the new lead organization. The Boards of Directors from both agencies, along with funders and legislators agree that this merger is in the best interests of our organizations and the customers that we serve. Our volatile funding environment is a constant reminder of the necessity to streamline operations so that we can maintain quality service. This friendly merger will create efficiencies and economies with a stronger management structure. It is designed to better serve all 6 towns; New Britain, Bristol, Burlington, Farmington, Plainville and Plymouth. BCO is a sister community action agency that shares our mission to help low-income individuals and families become more economically self-sufficient. Over the past 4 years HRA and BCO have intentionally pursued joint funding opportunities to provide programs that will improve service for these residents in our 6 communities. As a result, HRA has begun to build partnerships and relationships with organizations in the greater Bristol region. With funding from the CT Department of Social Services (DSS), HRA & BCO have hired a consulting team to create a comprehensive strategic and organizational development plan that will guide the integration of our agencies. The formalized Planning Team, composed of internal managers from both organizations, will lead the process. The Boards of Directors from both agencies will approve the final plan prior to implementation. We look forward to our new opportunities and strengthened services – but we also know that this summer will be a busy one as we bring our plans to fruition. Special thanks to all of our employees who will be working hard to make this a seamless transition. Rocco R. Tricarico, JD Dr. Catherine R. Baratta Executive Director Board President

8,059 people are better prepared for

work – with education (GED, ABE), job training and work experience help from our Employment and Training

services

4,055 people went to work - with

assistance from HRA’s Employment & Training services

Featured success story…. Two curious elementary school children who needed help with a school project unwittingly launched a full-fledged “Homework Club” for 24 of their family and friends right in their own backyard. On their way home from school one day the 2 children noticed HRA’s Youth Services sign so they stopped in and told the staff what they needed. The Youth Services Center helps older youth (ages 16-24) with employment and training but something about these children captivated the staff. Within no time the team tutored, helped them research their science project in the computer lab and gave them supplies. The children spread the word and soon this became the “Homework Club”, a place for children in both elementary and middle school to come for help with their homework. The club runs during the school year, from September to June. Jefferson Elementary School children come on Wednesdays after school; Pulaski Middle School children come on Tuesdays after school. Now in its 3rd year (2015-2016) the club is at maximum capacity with 24 children (18 in elementary school + 6 in middle school) who are all looking for help with math, reading, school projects and arts and crafts. HRA’s Director of Youth Services added structure so that parents know about it, to make sure that children live in the neighborhood project and to collect emergency contacts. Several HRA partners have also stepped up to enrich the club. The UConn Extension Service Nutritionist comes occasionally to run nutrition classes and to help the children set up the garden beds outside. In addition, 2 UConn students from the Food Corps Urban 4-H Program for elementary school children come to run 1 hour workshops each week on team building, how to be a good citizen and other appropriate topics. They also bring supplies and snacks. One of the unique features of this club is that it receives no funding, except a small amount for supplies. The entire Youth Services team and other community volunteers donate their time. Parents know and trust the Youth Center and love the convenience of it in their neighborhood. Some of the initial elementary school children are now in middle school and have attended for all 3 years. These 24 children have found a warm and caring team that is willing to donate their time to help them succeed.

To learn more about our programs visit: hranbct.org/Employment_and_Training/

19,378 people gained access and referrals to multiple services

that will support them in various ways as they strive to become self-sufficient.

2016 COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS

- Mary Lou Sanders retired after serving on the public sector of the Board for 21 years (1994-2015). She came to our Board after working in the CT Legislature and a career in health care in which she held a variety of leadership roles. Mary Lou has dedicated her life to volunteering in various ways to the New Britain community.

- Maria Simao served as the Development Committee Chair on the private sector of the Board for 3 years (2012-2015). She resigned to become the Executive Director of the Literacy Volunteers of Central CT.

The Making a Difference in Our Community Award is presented to HRA Board members who have retired from the Board after many contributions to the agency and the community. Both retired from the Board after making many contributions to the community.

A single mother with a 3 year old in our Head Start Program, Leticia also volunteers outside of HRA in Parents as Teachers and in the Coalition for New Britain Youth. In her spare time she’s training for a 5K race next fall.

The Volunteerism Award is presented to an individual or group whose volunteer efforts have impacted programs, provided leadership and shown commitment to the community.

New Britain Police Department Chief James Wardwell demonstrates visionary leadership to the entire New Britain community and to HRA in an effort to strengthen community service. He stands behind his promise to partner with the community to address the concerns of the city with the Police Department proving this commitment every day.

The Community Partnership Award is presented to an organization/partner with visionary leadership that collaborates with HRA to provide services to the community.

The Alton Brooks Community Service Award is presented to an individual whose work has been a catalyst for change and has made an impact on issues of concern to the community.

This year HRA is pleased to present The Alton Brooks Community Service Award to Farmington Bank whose work has been a catalyst for change and has made an impact on issues of concern to the community. Ms. Panus, Vice President and Branch Manager of the Farmington Bank Broad Street Office, has held a variety of leadership roles in the banking industry throughout her career. True to her devotion to the industry and the community, she became one of the first partners in HRA’s Assets for Independence/Individual Development Accounts (AFI/IDA) federal grant, lending support to the project with account management, individual financial counseling and financial education to community participants. From there, she and her team at the bank’s branch have supported the Summer Youth Employment & Learning Program, the Energy Assistance Program and the Polish Outreach Program.

Chief Wardwell and his team serve on HRA’s Security committee; regularly conduct security assessments for us and supported us when we experienced a streak of vandalism. Above and beyond this, his team comes annually to read to our Head Start children and this year conducted a workshop in our annual staff development training.

Letisha Esnard is an enthusiastic community volunteer whose efforts have impacted our programs and our community. As Chair of the Head Start Policy Council she is here all the time - in the classrooms and attending all of the parents meetings and groups. She also passed the IRS certification and became an HRA VITA volunteer this past year.

Nearly 13,000 people did not go

hungry because of food or meals from Emergency Assistance, Early Childhood

and Health and Wellness services.

Over 6,200 people stayed warmer this winter with a

combination of funds made available through HRA’s Energy

and Housing services.

EARLY CHILDHOOD SERVICES www.hranbct.org/Early_Childhood_Services Ben Franklin Toddler/Preschool Program NAEYC Accredited – Sliding scale fees For children 13 months & walking – 3 years Head Start Program of Excellence/ School Readiness – NAEYC Accredited Early childhood education for ages 3 & 4 Includes services for entire family Neighborhood Fathers Unite Helping fathers and male family members make a positive impact on their children EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE www.hranbct.org/Emergency_Assistance New Britain Food & Resource Center Food assistance for residents of northwestern New Britain Eviction Mediation & Homelessness Prevention Landlord mediation, rent bank assistance, budgeting and related services Polish Victim Advocacy Crisis counseling, advocacy, emergency & referrals for Polish-speaking crime victims Community Service Case Managers 1-stop case management & eligibility pre-determination for job training, housing, food and other support services.

EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING www.hranbct.org/EmploymentandTraining South Central One-Stop Career Center Help to get you your first job, a better job or training to improve your skills Youth Employment Services Higher education & employment for out-of-school youth aged 18-24 Summer Youth Employment Services Preparing high school students for careers with training and work experience ENERGY & HOUSING SERVICES www.hranbct.org/Engery_and_Housing Energy Assistance Vendor mediation and funding to keep low-income people warm during the winter Operation Fuel Emergency energy assistance for all low-moderate income people during a crisis Polish Outreach Immigration assistance, translation services, and referrals to support services for low-moderate income Polish-speaking individuals

Over 5,700 people learned to save, invest and decrease their debt with

HRA’s Foundations in Financial Independence services including

5,484 tax filers who received over $9.9 million in federal tax refunds.

578 individuals and families avoided homelessness or eviction because of mediation or rental subsidies from HRA’s Energy and Housing services.

FINANCIAL SERVICES www.hranbct.org/Financial_Services Individual Development Accounts (IDA) Matched savings programs for low-moderate income people to learn how to manage and save money to purchase specific assets FDIC Money Smart Workshops 12 session workshop teaches basic financial education to those who want to learn how to manage their money Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Preparation and filing of annual tax returns by IRS-certified volunteers for low-moderate income people Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) – For Youth Annual income tax preparation by youth, for youth.

HEALTH & WELLNESS SERVICES www.hranbct.org/Health_and_Wellness Wellness Resource Center Drop-in center to improve emotional & physical health and the quality of life for those infected with HIV/AIDS Medication Adherence Program Helping HIV+ individuals understand the disease and the importance of taking their medications as directed Ryan White Case Management Medical and support services for individuals living with HIV/AIDS in greater New Britain Counseling and Testing Helping people learn their HIV status and providing care and support for those who are HIV+ Healthy Relationships Reducing HIV transmission by promoting safe behavior and building healthier relationships to protect participants and their partners Las Perlas Hispanas Center Providing health screenings, congregate meals and social support for low-income, Spanish-speaking elders aged 60 and over

2015-2016 Head Start Annual Report Rocco R. Tricarico, JD

Executive Director Dr. Catherine R. Baratta, Board President

165 families have affordable child care so they can get or

keep a job – and do so with ease, knowing their children are safe while they are at work - in HRA’s NAEYC accredited

Toddler and Preschool Child Care Program.

Preparing Children for Kindergarten: HRA Head Start uses The Creative Curriculum for Preschool as its principal curriculum. This curriculum is aligned with the goals in the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework and is a guide for teachers to provide materials and activities that support children’s goals. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool meets all of the standards for effective early childhood curricula by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the National Association of Early Childhood Specialists in State Departments of Education.

HRA HEAD START/SCHOOL READINESS ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

Social-Emotional Development: Children will develop the skills necessary to foster secure attachments with adults, maintain healthy relationships, regulate behavior and emotions, and develop a healthy concept of personal identity. Children will participate fully in learning experiences and form positive relationships with teachers and peers.

Approaches to Learning: Children will develop a sense of wonder; a willingness to participate; persistence in their efforts; and the ability to connect past learning to new situations.

Literacy-Language Development: Children will increase their language and communication skills by engaging in meaningful experiences that require them to effectively express their ideas and feelings, to listen and to understand others. Children will understand basic concepts about books or other media, the alphabet, and letter –sound relationships.

Physical Health and Development: Children will develop early health habits to support physical well-being, use of their bodies, muscle control, appropriate nutrition, exercise, hygiene and safety practices.

Cognitive/General Knowledge: Children will develop mathematical thinking skills to logically solve problems and make connections to the world around them. Children will expand their curiosity and motivation to learn by asking questions, making observations and building on natural experiences.

A team of teachers and administrators, with input from parents, developed HRA Head Start’s School Readiness Goals. They used the following resources to lead the development process; Connecticut Early Learning Development Standards; Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework: National Association for the Education of Young Children Standards and Criteria; Creative Curriculum for Preschool; and Teaching Strategies GOLD. Family Engagement goals are incorporated into the School Readiness goals below.

635 pre-school aged children are better prepared to start

kindergarten after participating in HRA’s Head Start Program of Excellence.

Child Assessment System: The management and teaching team observe and assess the development of our children at three check points during the program year using Teaching Strategies GOLD. This is an observational assessment that links our curriculum to our lesson planning. By analyzing data and evaluating outcomes, teachers develop learning experience plans to achieve school readiness goals.

We collected assessment data for 325 children in both our Head Start and School Readiness programs. The past two years show Physical and Literacy as the greatest areas of strength for the children we serve. In 2015-2016 90% of our children met/exceeded widely held expectations for Physical – Fine Motor skills and 85% of our children met/exceeded widely held expectations for Literacy. We have further broken down our data for children entering kindergarten (4 year olds) and children who are not yet entering kindergarten (3 year olds). In 2015-2016 84% of children entering kindergarten met/exceeded widely held expectations for Language and Physical development. Also this year, 86% of the three year olds met/exceeded widely held expectations for Physical-Gross Motor and Social/Emotional development. In 2015-2016, Math was the lowest scoring area in Teaching Strategies GOLD for all 325 children. As a result, we will implement a new evidence –based curriculum in 2016-2017.

Key Findings from Child Assessment Data: HRA Head Start uses an individualized observation and planning process for each child. Staff and families in partnership assess each child’s development and identify areas for improvement across all domains of learning. The management and teaching team obtain information from parent interviews, child observations, Teaching Strategies Gold and if applicable, from the child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

Over 2,230 seniors, adults, and children are healthier

because they received medical, dental, nutritional and/or case management support services from HRA’s Health and

Wellness and Early Childhood services.

Ms. Elizabeth Donnellan, “Liz” started in HRA’s Head Start Program in 1973. Liz will retire in July 2016. Under her leadership as the Head Start Director, both the federal and state have recognized the program as a Center of Excellence. She wholeheartedly embraces the Head Start philosophy and as a result, her efforts have touched the lives of thousands of New Britain children.

What Our Parents Say: Results from the 2015-2016 Parent Survey show that parents are overall happy with the Head Start services and program communications. 96% are satisfied with what their child

learned at school 94% feel welcome in their child’s

classroom 96% are satisfied with their child’s teacher

Transition Activities: Head Start implemented a variety of kindergarten transition activities both in the program and in conjunction with community providers and the local Board of Education. These activities are designed to prepare children, their parents and school staff for the children’s entry into Kindergarten. Head Start management and staff provides: Spring transition meetings between teachers

and parents Developmental Narratives for elementary

school staff Kindergarten informational meeting to give

parents resources and a registration tip sheet. Registration packets to all parents of eligible

kindergarten age children Staff support for parents who need help

completing registration materials Transition activities using children’s books and

discussion around the “Kindergarten Here I Come “video

Orientation visits at elementary schools for incoming children and their parents in late August

HRA Head Start Health, Dental, Nutrition and Mental Services: HRA’s Head Start Program is committed to promoting our children’s social, emotional and medical well-being and has formed a number of collaborations to achieve this pursuit. By working with local medical and dental providers, we ensure that families are completing their annual well-child visits and dental exams. Our Family Service Workers work with the families to make sure that all enrolled children establish a medical and dental home; receive their physical and dental exams; and do necessary follow-up in a timely matter. Tunxis Community College’s Allied Dental Program visits all classrooms to deliver oral health education each spring. The University of Connecticut (UConn) Speech and Language and Audiology Department completes required hearing screenings for all enrolled children within 45 days. The Connecticut Lions Eyes Research Foundation, Lions Eye Health Program conducts vision screening for all the enrolled children with 45 days. Our nutrition consultant adheres to the CACFP guidelines for preparing nutritious and healthy menus. Our nutrition consultant develops care plans for children who have food allergies and restrictions. Parents receive copies of monthly menus for breakfast, lunches and snacks. Our contract with Wheeler Clinic provides us with a full-time Behavioral Specialist.

Fed State School Other OtherExpenditures Prior Year FY15 Total HS HS Readiness USDA Fees Programs Revenue In-Kind

Salaries 2,350,299.00 2,461,924 1,467,958 296,103 629,901 11,642 56,320 -

Benefits 876,650.00 856,240 514,511 97,848 221,172 4,098 18,611 -

Travel and Transportation 123,934.00 99,057 99,057 - -

Equipment - 3,835 - 3,835

Supplies 74,004.00 91,263 63,423 6,738 18,967 2,135 - -

Contractural 395,226.00 398,044 58,825 8,220 24,259 306,740 -

Other Expenses 707,047.00 785,493 366,133 39,300 164,844 23,807 - - 191,409

Total 4,527,160 4,695,856 2,569,907 448,209 1,059,143 352,257 74,931 - - 191,409

FISCAL YEAR 15-16 FUNDINGHRA HEAD START PROGRAM

HRA Head Start Federal Review and Audit Results: The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) determined that HRA of New Britain, Inc. Head Start Program is in total compliance, placing the program in a five year grant cycle. Recipients of five year grants must now complete certain requirements in each of these required areas; governance and leadership, health and safety, school readiness and the audit process within an established time frame. HRA of New Britain’s first review under this grant is scheduled for the 2016-2017 program year.

VITA Volunteer Portal - all the news you need to know https://sites.google.com/site/hranewbritainvita/

Website - email replies within 1 business day http://www.hranbct.org/ContactForm/

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24/7 Appointment Line - Call 860-356-2000 for:

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