What’s Happening in IDD Services?

Frank Meeting Animals

Frank loves animals, and he had the opportunity to meet some fun ones recently. He met two puppies, River and Sky, during an engagement activity. He greatly enjoyed the interaction and companionship of the puppies and was very attentive throughout the experience. Frank also learned about the responsibilities involved in caring for a puppy, including providing food, water, exercise, and care. He also got to take a trip to Heislers to pet and hand feed some of the horses.

DSP of the Quarter K. Benson

Congratulations to Kaitlyn Benson, recipient of the Merakey AVS Steven’s Fund Direct Support Professional of the Quarter Award for Winter 2026.

Kaitlyn has been a valued member of the Merakey AVS team for more than five years and currently supports individuals at the Keister II Home in Butler County.

This recognition reflects her compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those she supports each day. Her strong work ethic, positive attitude, and genuine care make her a role model for her colleagues and a tremendous asset to the Merakey AVS community. Kaitlyn consistently goes above and beyond to create a supportive environment for both the individuals she serves and her fellow team members.

Thank you, Kaitlyn, for bringing your heart, dedication, and positivity to everything you do. We are proud to recognize your outstanding contributions!

“Kaitlyn is a phenomenal staff member who gives 110% every time she works. When the individuals see her, their faces light up. She makes everyone she interacts with feel seen and respected,” said Slippery Rock Program Center Assistant Program Director Terri Macurak.

The DSP of the quarter award has been made possible through Steven’s Fund to recognize Merakey Allegheny Valley School Direct Support Professionals. The fund was created in 2017 in memory of Steven Garlick by his mother Betsy Friedman. To contribute to the fund, visit avs.merakeyorg/donate-now and include “Steven’s Fund” in the “other” and/or “c.omments / instructions” box.

Picnic and Bowling

The individuals from the Robinson Smart Home spent the day filled with smiles, strikes, and sunshine when they enjoyed a picnic lunch and an afternoon of bowling with friends.

Fishing at Hopewell Park

The individuals from Ewings Mills II recently enjoyed a relaxing day of fishing at Hopewell Park.

Countryview Outings

The guys from Countryview enjoyed two great outings recently. They spent one day exploring the animals and attractions at Keystone Safari and another day taking in the beautiful displays at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

Making Visors

The individuals at the Edward J. Zapp Center are ready for summer. They showed their creativity by handmaking personalized visors to protect their eyes from the sun.

Fred Rogers Institute

It was a beautiful day in the neighborhood as groups from Countryview and Coleman visited the Fred Rogers Institute and Fred Rogers Park in Latrobe, PA.

Pittsburgh Passion Game

Matt from Branchton SFR and Rob from Grove City Road SFR are great friends. They typically meet up at least once a month to go to dinner and hang out. They also share a common love of all Pittsburgh sports. They recently attended a Pittsburgh Passion game at Slippery Rock University. The Pittsburgh Passion is a female football team, and their games are famous for being lots of fun. The guys were impressed with the ladies' skills and thought the game was exciting. Best of all, both Matt and Rob got to meet the team members and get their autographs after the game. They had a wonderful time.

Windy Ghoul Outings

Mike, Anthony, Bill, and Jason from Windy Ghoul had some fun outings this June. One day was spent enjoying delicious milkshakes at the Milkshake Factory, and another was spent exploring the Andy Warhol Museum.

Visiting Comic Con

Individuals at Verree Road enjoyed going on a three-day trip to the Comic Con convention, a big event celebrating all different types of movies and cartoons. Staff dressed the individuals in different costumes each day, they met different movie stars, and they listened to a lecture with Mr. T. The other fans who were in attendance smiled and clapped when they saw their costumes. Everyone had fun at the convention.

Gettysburg Trip

John, Eli, Dennis, Carol, and Merakey team members Jack, Ania, Alivia, and Tara enjoyed a day trip to Gettysburg, PA to learn about the rich history of the area.