Posted 10/9/2026
POTA Fieldwork Award
The Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association (POTA) Awards is an evidence-based program that honors clinicians and educators whose diverse interests and expertise have contributed to the advancement of Occupational Therapy practice. The POTA awards highlight achievements in innovative practice, community engagement, education, research, leadership, and advocacy that benefit clients, students, and practitioners. Merakey/Allegheny Valley School (Verree Road Campus, SFR & CLP) is supported by Rebecca Stressman, OTR/L. We congratulate Rebecca on her most recent accomplishment which includes the POTA 2026 Fieldwork Educator Award! Rebecca was nominated by her peers for her commitment to Fieldwork Education. Thank You, Rebecca, for your unwavering support of our IDD individuals.
Building A Deck
Tyler and Stephanie from Merakey SMC/Lehigh enjoyed a gorgeous day outside on the deck building a wood house.
Bloomsburg Fair
The Bryn Mawr Gals from Merakey Schuylkill Mountain Center/Lehigh enjoyed a trip to the Bloomsburg Fair.
Schramm's Farm
London spent a beautiful fall day at Schramm's Farmer's Market and stopped by Dunkin' Donuts for a sweet treat.
Zapp Kennedy Fall Festival
Fall fun was in the air at the Edward J. Zapp and Kennedy Program Centers. Everyone enjoyed a festive day filled with furry friends at the petting zoo, creative fall crafts, and colorful face painting.
Tour of Preston's Pearl
On Tuesday, October 6, a large group of individuals from the Slippery Rock Program Center went to Lake Arthur at Moraine State Park to take a boat tour on "Preston's Pearl.” The boat traveled to various parts of the lake while the tour guide pointed out various wildlife that have a habitat there. The individuals were encouraged to use binoculars to see some of the birds. They were excited to see a Blue Heron and a Bald Eagle's nest. Some individuals preferred to be out on the observation deck, while others were happy to watch out the windows of the enclosed area below. Everyone had a great time on the boat.
Ewing's Mill Fun
Olive, Kelly, Linda, Anna, and Baylee from Merakey Ewing’s Mill have been out and about these past few months.
From bowling at Paradise Bowl and shooting hoops at Moon Park to exploring historical state parks like Raccoon, Moraine, and McConnells Mills, there’s been no shortage of adventure. The group even had the chance to attend a Pittsburgh Penguins practice.
Along the way, they’ve learned about local history, felt all kinds of animal fur, admired beautiful waterfalls, relaxed by the lake, enjoyed nature hikes, and most importantly, had lots of fun together.
Rotary Bingo
The McKees Rocks Rotary Designer Purse Bingo… ’N At! fundraiser provided another great opportunity for Merakey AVS employees to connect and have fun outside of work. Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous funder, 13 employees attended the event, bringing along their favorite snacks, lucky charms, and bingo dobbers for an afternoon filled friendly competition.
A special thank you to the dedicated men and women of the Merakey AVS Zapp Food Prep team, who baked 400 cookies for the event. Cookies were carefully packaged and featured a personalized label, adding a thoughtful touch.
Program Instructor Renee Masters shared..." I had an absolutely BINGO-tastic time! My dobber is still recovering from overuse, and I’m convinced the bingo balls have a personal vendetta against me. Can’t wait for the rematch, I’m bringing a four-leaf clover (and maybe some bingo armor)."
The fundraiser was a true win for the community! Proceeds benefit local schools and community organizations supported by the McKees Rocks Rotary Club, including Merakey AVS.
