Posted 3/10/2023
NTG/NADSP Pilot Comes to Merakey
Merakey received grants from ODP (Office of Developmental Programs) and Polk Foundation to pilot a brand-new program to train employees on best practices when caring for adults with IDD at risk of or who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. Merakey partnered with the NTG (National Task Group) to bring this national model workshop to Pennsylvania through a 2-day workshop for 100 employees from Merakey and similar organizations. The workshop was the first step in Merakey employees earning badges to become certified in Dementia care, leading to rate increases or compensation.
Merakey is thrilled to be a part of this pilot program through NTG and NADSP and looks forward to replicating these trainings throughout Merakey.
“We are excited to begin this pilot program and partnership with the NTG and NADSP within the IDD division in Western Pennsylvania,” commented Staff Development Executive Carol Erzen. “Through the ODP grant, will be expanding this across all IDD programs in Pennsylvania and will create a model that can be replicated throughout the entire division.”
“This workshop has inspired me to understand what the ladies I care for are going through as they age,” commented Direct Support Professional Kodie Herbert.
“The information is amazing and gives me an incentive to work harder for those I support,” commented House Manager Aide Katie Monn.
Congratulations Regional Affiliated Trainers
A big congratulations to members of the IDD Staff Development Team who attended a third day session as part of the NTG/NADSP Workshop and became Regional Affiliated Trainers. This group is now certified to deliver the full NTG Dementia Capable Care Curriculum. Affiliated trainers have access to greatly expanded topic modules, trainer manual, free monthly NTG continuing education webinars, and will become part of the NTG’s national network of Affiliated Regional Trainers with ongoing continuing education, support, and resources.
- Carol Erzen
- Mike Hovis
- Christine Lorah
- Fran Moog
- Marie Pawlowski
- Corey Peterson
- Dawn Schibner
- Lori Schibner
- Nicole Snyder
- Lauren Jarrel from Verland
- Diana Tatters from CLASS
- Elizabeth Skwara from Achieva
