Posted 10/4/2024
Merakey individuals in Redding, CA recently participated in Special Olympics bowling, which is something they look forward to every year. Lisa, pictured, was one of seven clients who was a return participant. Everyone had an amazing time at the practices, the dinner dance, and the tournment. Each participant received a medal acknowledging their teamwork!
Eric and Rory from the Grove City Road House were accompanied by Slippery Rock Program Center Program Instructor Nikita Flowers and her Aide Shelly Flick to spend the day at the Eastwood Mall. Rory and Eric loved checking out the fish in the aquarium and doing some window shopping. They all enjoyed a nice day in the food court.
Groups from Slippery Rock Program Center participated in Community Participation Supports trips. One group went to the Spirit Halloween store to get ideas for costumes. The other group went to Hobby Lobby to find materials and inspiration for fall crafts. Both groups had fun that day.
Individuals from Merakey AVS took part in a pre-Rosh Hashanah celebration with a few of their friends from Jewish organizations in the area. The celebration was held via zoom between Merakey, The Branch (formerly Jewish Residential Services), JOY, and The Friendship Circle. The theme was “Shana Tova, Have a Sweet Year” and included a discussion on resolutions and the "Shana Tova" which means ‘good year’. Marsha Zaldonis from the Friendship Circle played the sounds of a shofar, an ancient musical horn typically made of a ram's horn. Rabbi Morday sent a special video wishing the group a happy and healthy celebration. Each participant was given a goodie bag filled with information on Rosh Hashanah, a scratch off art activity, and a sweet treat apple and honey.
SRPC Program Instructor Nikita Flowers and her Aide Shelly Flick led their group in creating a fall craft. The individuals enjoyed making the crafts and look forward to displaying them in their homes.
The DSPs at Merakey AVS Coleman House were recognized during DSP Appreciation Week.
The Staff Development Team in Pittsburgh shows their hometown pride by decorating their office tree to cheer on the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The ladies from New Castle Street visited Bitty & Beau’s Coffee in Pittsburgh. The coffee shop was founded by the Wright Family in honor of their children with IDD. The company helps to create a path for people with disabilities to become more valued, accepted and included in every community.