Posted 7/28/2023
As many of the individuals Merakey supports are aging, offering specialized training to support their changing needs is critical. Merakey has partnered with the National Task Group on Aging and Dementia for Individuals with ID/DD (NTG) and the National Alliance of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) to provide a curriculum and certification process to become a Dementia Capable Specialist.
The IDD division received a grant through the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) in Pennsylvania to create a career path for our Direct Support Professionals. Once they receive the training and certification as a Dementia Capable Specialist, they can use this distinction in their title and also receive an increase in pay.
The pilot will run for two years with the anticipation that the program can expand throughout all Merakey IDD programs.
Pictured are the first two staff members to receive their certification, House Manager Chris Lapen and Direct Support Professional Wendy Fobes. They are joined by Mentor and Staff Development Facilitator Mike Hovis and Staff Development Executive and Project Lead Carol Erzen.
Congratulations to the following Merakey employees who have completed their badges:
- Kieleigh Booher
- Wendy Fobes
- Michelle Kellam
- Thomas Prorok
- Haley Shuhayda
- Angela Christy
- Chris Lapen
- Lacey Malekovic
- Michelle Schmidt
- Selena Young