Posted 4/25/2025
Thank You
On April 15, 2025, Merakey Allegheny Valley School's Hummelstown Campus experienced a significant flooding event caused by a mechanical failure in the sprinkler system. The lower level of the building was flooded, and utilities were impacted, requiring the relocation of all residents to a nearby hotel for four days. During a walkthrough of the damage, someone remarked on the power of water, saying, “water finds a way.” In response, Senior Regional Executive Director Roni Erath added, “so does the human spirit.”
What unfolded over the following days was a powerful demonstration of teamwork and compassion. Under the leadership of Senior Director Rachel Livingston, staff came together with one unified goal: to keep the individuals safe, cared for, and as comfortable as possible while away from their home. Dedicated teams supported care efforts at the hotel, and the scene back on campus was no less remarkable. In just 48 hours, the lower level, initially submerged in four feet of water, was drained, salvageable items recovered and stored, and all damaged materials removed.
Roni shared, “I cannot begin to express enough the gratitude and pride I felt watching staff from every department work side by side, many putting in 12-to-16-hour days to get the job done. Nurses not only tended to medical needs but also delivered laundry. Social Services and department heads stepped into direct care roles. Program staff ensured consistent support across all shifts, and Facilities and Housekeeping worked around the clock. Just like the water, the human spirit finds a way.”
Shays Home Ready to Open
Shays Home is scheduled to accept their first two admissions on April 29, 2025. The team is excited to open the sixth EBSH in the San Diego area. They recently had the pleasure of giving a tour to the San Diego Regional Center Leadership and its Board Members.
Advocacy Group Mtg
The team at Patricia Hillman Miller Campus (PHMC) hosted the Merakey AVS Advocacy Group meeting, welcoming participants from the Kennedy and Zapp Program Centers, along with PHMC. The gathering wrapped up with a delicious pizza party!
Enjoying Spring Weather
Genny, Wendy, and Program Manager Susan White from Nolte home are soaking up the beautiful spring weather! They had a classic breakfast at the Beaver County Maple Festival and visited Phipps Conservatory to admire the blooming flowers.
Eggstravaganza
James, Jonathan, and Keith from Wildwood home along with staff members Christian, Wendy, and Shannon visited the National Aviary in Pittsburgh for their Eggstravaganza event.
Mattress Factory Visit
Carl, Kenny, Chris, and Eric from Fox explored the Mattress Factory Museum of Contemporary Art in Pittsburgh. The museum highlights the development of alternative art forms through site-specific installations, video, and performance art.
