Posted 11/1/2024
Four residents from PHMC Campus participated in a monthly art workshop at the Carnegie Library. The residents enjoyed the line-based mix media project that incorporated multiple colors, textures, and media. Residents worked with staff independently and hand over hand to complete their artwork using a variety of supplies including markers, pastels, and watercolors. Everyone had a blast with the project and plan on making many return trips!
CEO Joe Martz entered the haunted house at Merakey AVS’s Slippery Rock Program Center (SRPC) at his own risk! Surrounded by creepy sounds, cobwebs, skeletons, a moving witch’s broom, and eerie decor, Joe and others managed to escape unscathed. A huge shout out to staff members Cindy Solman, Kylie Miller, and Lisa Pry for creating the spooky haunted house and meticulously decorating it, and thanks to the actors who came alive and scared participants silly.
During the visit, Joe spent the afternoon talking with individuals at SRPC and the staff who work there. He also congratulated Bob Graziani on celebrating his 33 years of service at Merakey.
Joe shared, “It was great to visit the Slippery Rock Halloween haunted house, and to have had the opportunity to thank our colleagues for the incredible work they do to support our individuals. Merakey is blessed to have leaders like Theresa Cox and Vicki Doverspike. They have built a remarkable team of selfless professionals who have dedicated their careers to providing exceptional service. It was a memorable day spent with one of our very special teams.”
On October 25, Slippery Rock Program Center hosted its first Trunk or Treat for individuals and staff. There were several vehicles decorated for the occasion, and no two were the same. The creativity was amazing. It was a beautiful evening for the ghouls and goblins to come out for some treats. Everyone had a great time and loved participating.
Kregg, Jonathan, James, and Keith from Merakey AVS Wildwood home spent a beautiful fall day at Yeck Farm.
On October 30, individuals from Slippery Rock Program Center dressed in their costumes to attend a Halloween dinner dance. This year’s dance theme was Beetlejuice. Jamie Surrena, the House Manager from Harmony home, organized the dance with a crew of helpers. Everyone enjoyed pizza, salad, and cupcakes. After eating, everyone was excited to hit the dance floor and show off their moves. It was a great evening filled with fun. A special thanks to Jamie for all her hard work and commitment to continue this tradition.
Merakey individual Janna recently visited LAMP (Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians) for Tactile Tuesday, one of the library’s events in which swell form, 3-D printed items, and other tactile items are explored. The event also featured an open discussion on the topic of tactile accessibility. The group is open to the public, but especially beneficial to those who are blind or have low vision. Janna actively explored all the tactile items and asked questions about each one. The event’s theme was Halloween and the Haunting of Venice. While participating in the group, Janna reconnected with a library member who she had known during her time at the School for the Blind. Janna learned a lot and had a wonderful time.
Merakey individuals from Allegheny and Beaver County homes Monster Mashed their way to a spooky good evening at the Zapp Halloween Dance.
Merakey staff and individuals enjoyed a gorgeous sunny day at Dalton Farms for the sunflower festival. Individuals toured the farm to look at the many beautiful fields of sunflowers and the plentiful pumpkin patches.
The Philadelphia IDD team had a great time at their Fall Festival and enjoyed food, fun, and games! Individuals and staff came in amazing costumes dressed to impress.
Penn Hills Day Program enjoyed a fun Halloween playing games, completing crafts, making mummy pizzas and trick or treating.
