What’s Happening in the IDD Division?

Merakey IDD Senior Regional Executive Director Roni Erath surprised her Central and Western PA team by dressing up as the Grinch to celebrate the holiday season. Everyone’s hearts grew two sizes larger, and they all smiled from ear to ear when they saw her coming!

“I’m so blessed to work with such an awesome staff,” commented Roni.

In December, the ladies at Green Garden home at Merakey AVS had a Christmas pajama day and made reindeer food with staff members Cortney, Kilee, and Alexys.

Social Services Director Linda Denny planned a fun holiday escape room for her team in Western PA. Employees were split into three groups and each group worked together to solve clues, codes, and puzzles. Congratulations to the first team to save Santa: Henry Thompson, Shawnae Sallie, Hilary Catanese, Kaitlyn Wagner, Lisa Martin, and Takisha Miyares. The evening wrapped up with a holiday party and celebration of the year.

Aaliyah DiMarco, Horticulture Coordinator at Merakey AVS - Pittsburgh Campus, arranged a trip to Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens for Sharon, Brianna, Ricky, and Mark. After stopping for warm beverages, they strolled through the gardens and talked about the plants and holiday displays.

Aaliyah commented, “I think trips to Phipps are very beneficial to the individuals because the atmosphere is calming, and beautiful to look at!”

Now that we are feeling the chill of winter weather, Slippery Rock Program Center Instructor Megan Kober and her Aide Christie Laderer decided to warm things up with a cocoa mug craft. All the individuals had fun creating and decorating cocoa mugs made of wood. As a bonus, everyone enjoyed a real cup of cocoa once the craft was done.

Members of the Robinson Lions Club delivered gifts to individuals at Merakey AVS - Pittsburgh Campus Stucco House and shared a wonderful evening together. Thank you, Robinson Lions Club!

The IDD team from PA’s Western Region gathered to celebrate Christmas in person this year after many years apart. Attendees enjoyed great food, a special visit from Santa Claus, gifts, cookies, dancing, and games. Everyone had a wonderful time!