What's Happening in the IDD Division?

On Wednesday, June 7, Merakey participant Joseph celebrated his 49th birthday with longtime housemate Brian. The two gentlemen, from Merakey’s Delaware/Chester County, PA IDD Services, have resided together for over 30 years. The day started when a limousine picked them up at their home! The first stop was Red Lobster, where Joey ordered his favorite hot wings. After lunch they continued to the Academy of Music where Joey and Brian enjoyed watching one of their favorite movies, Beetlejuice, performed on stage as a musical. Afterwards, Joey enjoyed cake and ice cream at home with a couple of friends from other homes. He was very excited to show everyone his Beetlejuice shirt, socks, and snake he purchased at the show. Happy birthday, Joey!

Staff and individuals from Merakey’s Penn Hills IDD Day Program in Pittsburgh enjoyed a Pirates football game on June 7, courtesy of the Pirates Charities! The program was very grateful for their donation and for welcoming them to the ballpark for a day of fun. Everyone had a BALL! Thanks to everyone who joined the planning committee and helped make it a wonderful day at PNC Park!

Merakey AVS individuals Corey and Christopher from Hummelstown Campus enjoyed a nice evening walk along with Social Services Supervisor Rebecca Moore. Corey vocalized and swayed in his chair, while Christopher found the fishpond and memorial water foundation highly amusing. Christopher and Rebecca laughed the whole way around the campus sidewalks. Everyone is looking forward to more of these walks this summer.

Dwayne, a member of Merakey IDD Philadelphia’s residential living program, shared his artistic talents with the Philadelphia community at the Maplewood Mall Artisan Street Boutique on Saturday, June 10. Dwayne enjoys painting on canvas and paper, as well as marker drawings on both paper and t-shirts. He is best known for stylized portraits of singers and athletes. When not creating portraits, he is drawn to wildlife art, both underwater creatures and the larger animals of Africa. Dwayne sells his artwork at local fairs and has shown in galleries across Philadelphia. He was supported by his Employment Specialist Thea from IDEATE at this event. Dwayne’s company “The Boonie Groove” also sells tee-shirts on Amazon. Check out this talented artist at the Mt. Airy Art Garage!

Individuals from Slippery Rock Program Center in Slippery Rock, PA and House Manager Aide Megan Kober painted rocks to decorate the sensory garden and to hide around the community for others to find. Each person’s rock reflects their individuality with the image they chose to paint on them. They hope to brighten someone’s day with their creations.

It was a wonderful afternoon for Merakey AVS families, friends and staff as the Western PA AVS Parents Association held their first in-person meeting since before the pandemic. Approximately 60 guests gathered to have lunch and to hear about programming, campus, group home and company updates. Participants asked questions and learned about exciting activities and new opportunities for individuals and staff throughout Merakey. The people we support are back to attending daily activities outside of their home and participating in community events. A slideshow featuring these activities was played throughout the event, which everyone enjoyed. Senior Vice President for IDD Services Elise Tretola wrapped up the meeting and thanked everyone for attending. The next in-person Western PA Parents Meeting will be held this fall.

Kevin from Great Oaks home has made some new furry friends while volunteering at a local Humane Society! He loves spending time with animals, and always has a great time when he volunteers.

Individuals Ben, Tom, Brad, and Camillo from Evergreen home had an awesome time at their local Memorial Day Parade! They all enjoyed spending the day together and getting to see the sights and sounds of the processional.

Robert, a resident who lives in Shippensburg, PA enjoyed a day at the local duck park walking around the pond on June 7 with Direct Care Worker Jazmine Seiders. The park is described by staff and the community as a great place to clear one’s head and to gain some peace and serenity.

The IDD team from Schuylkill Mountain Center in Pottsville, PA enjoyed a fun-filled day at the Reading Phillies game on June 10.