Our Team

Our Founder

Candice Hartford

CEO/Founder

Raising Harts was created on behalf of my twin boys, Keaton & Grady, and their sister, Isla. When the pandemic hit, like everyone else, the boys' usual activities, social engagements, and therapies were stripped away and their routines were drastically changed. During that time, we as a family struggled with isolation, and our need for community grew. It became my mission to create safe experiences where they can just be kids and I could just be Mom. One thing I know is that when special needs parents combine their powers, we are unstoppable.

Kenneth Hartford

Founder

Ken is the second half of the dynamic Hartford duo, Founder of Raising Harts and father to Keaton, Grady, and Isla.

Adrien Asaff, M.A., L.M.H.C

Director of Therapeutic Programs

Adrien is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and has a clinical mental health degree with a school and community specialization. She was a therapeutic teacher and clinician at Community Therapeutic Day School in Lexington, MA.

Her experience in home and in a school setting with neurodiverse and Autistic children is extensive. She currently lives in Scituate with her husband and their two children.

Dedicated to supporting families with Autistic children through inclusive programs and mentorship.

Kristin Armstrong

Direction of Educational Programs, Grants, & Services

Kaitlyn Litchfield

Local photographer and Autism mom. Kaitlyn lives on the South Shore with her husband and their two sons.

Interested in joining our leadership team?

Raising Harts is accepting inquiries from committed members of the community interested in serving on the Board of Directors and helping to further our mission.

If you are someone who has a passion for Raising Harts and Autism and neurodiverse children, and are engaged in your own community serving as a leader in the private or nonprofit sector, please send an inquiry to Founder + CEO Candice Hartford at candice@raisingharts.org

In addition to the Board, Raising Harts is fortunate to have nearly countless volunteers carrying out our mission and fundraising initiatives. If you are interested in serving as a volunteer, please complete our volunteer inquiry HERE.