Timeline

As we celebrate 30 years of creating opportunity for others, we humbly acknowledge that our path has been illuminated not by a single star, but rather by a constellation of clients, advocates, and community partners who have helped advance Project Genesis’ mission across three incredible decades. The milestones below belong to each of you. Thank you for helping us to shine a little brighter and for joining us as we light the way for years to come.

With gratitude,
Kathy Rathan, Project Genesis CEO

RECENT MILESTONES: 2021 – 2016

BUILDING A PRESENCE: 2015 – 2006

OUR FOUNDATION: 2005 – 1991

RECENT MILESTONES: 2021 - 2016

2021: Hybrid work and vaccinations give us hope for a new normal
We commemorate our 30th anniversary by being selected as a Top Workplace in recognition of our exceptional culture. We find balance in a hybrid work model. Vaccinations fuel optimism for a path to reopening. Innovative programming and service delivery increase demand for SESS and RISE services. ABI resumes group activities, enhancing socialization for our Survivors.
2020: A global pandemic’s disruption is no match for ingenuity and resilience
Quick adoption of digital tools allows us to continue essential services. We transition quickly to remote learning in SESS. Our BRS program goes hybrid. Heroes emerge in our ABI Program as our employees are deemed “essential workers.” Building on the legacy created by past and current consumers, employers, and communities, we rename our BRS program R.I.S.E. (Reaching Individual Success & Employment).
2019: Our renewed mission, vision and values position us for the future
With the support of (and deep gratitude to) our Board of Directors, Project Genesis implements a strategic plan that solidifies our mission, vision, and values. We accept our third Top Workplace in Connecticut honor.
2018: Culture and growth strengthen our community influence
Project Genesis is once again selected as a Top Workplace in Connecticut. We grow to 239 employees. BRS selects us as one of only 13 community rehabilitation providers to provide vocational services to adults with disabilities.
2017: People + technology = a winning equation
Project Genesis rolls out the mandated Department of Social Services Electronic Verification Visit (EVV) system to approximately 60 ABI programs and more than 150 employees. A new software system improves our employees’ benefit-enrollment experience. Our team perseveres through an intense summer of state program audits.
2016: A quarter-century of creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities
We ring in our 25th year with a recognition-studded agency celebration. Project Genesis is named one of the Top Midsize Employers in Connecticut for a second year. Vocational services are expanded to serve high school students through BRS’ Level Up program.

30 YEARS OF SPECIAL MOMENTS

BUILDING A PRESENCE: 2015 - 2006

2015: A year of meaningful recognition reminds us why we’re here
Our first Top Workplace honor is made sweeter with special recognition by the Hartford Courant for “Outstanding Meaningfulness.” We receive the 2015 Partnership Award from the Brain Injury Alliance of CT (BIAC) for “outstanding support of BIAC events and promotion of brain injury awareness and prevention in Connecticut’s communities.”
2013: A new leader rises up
Kathy Rathan is promoted from within to become CEO, continuing our Founding Director’s legacy of strong leadership.
2011: A milestone to celebrate: two decades of service!
2009: Our ABI Program is honored with the DMHAS’ Laurie DiGalbo Award for outstanding Acquired Brain Injury Services in Connecticut.
2007: Families United for Children’s Mental Health, Inc. awards our SESS Program for its “exceptional family-driven practices, values and beliefs.”

OUR FOUNDATION: 2005 - 1991

2005: We move into 720 Main Street with 100 employees and growing.
2003: Our first Board of Directors meeting is held as we grow to 83 employees serving 75 consumers.
2000: The agency grows to 29 employees strong.
1999: We establish our Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) program.
1998: A year of moves brings us into our first office, at 825 Main Street, and into a new school district. We’re proud to serve 95 consumers.
1996: Project Genesis serves 47 BRS and 20 DDS consumers. Our three existing managers are joined by our first Chief Financial Officer (CFO). We produce our first brochure.
1992: Our Special Education Support Services (SESS) program is born.
1991: Project Genesis is incorporated at the dining room table of our founding director, Ms. Virginia Kerensky, with the introduction of our Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) program.