Posted 11/14/2025
Coleman Passed Out Candy
The ladies from Coleman home passed out candy to their neighborhood trick-or-treaters on Halloween.
Pumpkin Carving
After a trip to the farm market, individuals from Slippery Rock Program Center decorated pumpkins they brought home. For one of the large pumpkins, they played a dice game to determine which shapes should be carved onto it. Each number corresponded with a shape. Paul carved a jack-o-lantern face that he designed. Everyone else enjoyed painting small white pumpkins. The decorated pumpkins graced the front entrance of the Slippery Rock Program Center for Halloween.
Halloween Carnival 159 County Line
Individuals and staff had an amazing time at a Hogwarts at PPC Carnival held at Merakey’s IDD site located at 159 E. County Line Road in Hatboro, PA. The two-day programs came together to celebrate Halloween. The carnival included fun games with great prizes, concession stands with everyone’s favorite snacks, pumpkin decorating and face painting. The van decorating brought out people’s imagination, and the dunk tank kept everyone cheering (and splashing). Individuals and staff enjoyed themselves while being reminded of how meaningful it is to share joyful moments as a community. Special thanks to everyone who helped set up, participated, and supported the event.
Trunk or Treat
Slippery Rock Program Center hosted its annual Trunk or Treat a week after Halloween due to inclement weather the previous week. Now that it gets dark earlier, it was decided to hold the event indoors. Staff brought family members and pets to add to the fun. Everyone loved having one last chance to show off their costumes.
Occupational Therapist
Longtime friends Jimmy and Floyd enjoyed a heartwarming visit arranged by Occupational Therapist Lori Zulka, spending time catching up and reminiscing about their days as housemates.
Three Little Pigs 159 County Line
Individuals and staff from Merakey’s IDD services located at 159 E. County Line Road in Hatboro had an awesome time putting on their very own Three Little Pigs play. Everyone worked hard learning lines, practicing their parts, and helping create costumes and props. The excitement really showed on performance day with the big bad wolf, the three pigs, and all the helpers bringing the story to life in the best way. There was a lot of laughter, big smiles, and plenty of proud moments as everyone took the stage and shared what they worked on. Watching individuals and staff support and cheer each other made the whole experience more meaningful and it reminded everyone how much fun they can have when together.
Merrick Art Gallery Visit
Individuals from Slippery Rock Program Center recently visited the Merrick Art Gallery in New Brighton, PA. They enjoyed looking at the various works of art created by older, established artists and newer artists. Everyone learned something about art and had a great time.
Heinz History Center
Cheyan, Jessica, Olivia and Kacey from Malcolm home at Merakey AVS recently visited the Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh.
Grove City Historical Society Visit
Matt, Sean, and Elliott from the Slippery Rock Program Center visited the Grove City Historical Society. Sean enjoyed the coal mining display, Matt loved seeing the old sports uniforms people wore to play football, and Elliott really liked the virtual reality tour that brought the past to life. Everyone learned something new about a nearby community.
Liz Woofles Employment
Liz is excited to announce her new position as a Brand Ambassador for Woofles, a local Pet Resort. As part of this role, she will be sharing the mission of the Through our Hands foundation with the community. She will be featured in the media representing the foundation and the Woofles Pet Resort. As Merakey continues to highlight and increase employment opportunities for individuals supported, everyone is extremely happy for Liz and the partnership with Woofles!
Living Treasures Animal Park Visit
Liz and Janna from Oakhaven home visited Living Treasures Animal Park with staff Nicki and Nicole.
New Ventures Portage Animal Farm
Kylee, Amy, Mick, Mark and Yvonne from Merakey New Ventures Portage took a trip to the farm. The individuals fed the horses, goats, pigs and a baby cow, all while learning about animals on the farm. Their smiles say it all!
