Posted 9/12/2025
Splatter Paint Art
Creative vibes were flowing at the Edward J. Zapp Center. A group of individuals participated in a colorful splatter paint art activity and decorated CD cases as part of a larger project. The final art piece will be a collage featuring a treble clef and music notes at the center.
The group is excited to see how it will all come together.
Summer Wrap Up
The guys from Wildwood home wrapped up summer in style! They cruised the rivers aboard the Gateway Clipper and soaked up the sun at Moraine State Park Lake with their friends from Fox. The guys always end the day with smiles after spending time out and about with each other.
Christmas in July
Christmas came early for Hummelstown Campus and Group homes during the last week of July with a special Christmas in July event. During the week there were theme days such as:
- Santa in Summer – dress as Santa in the summer
- Reindeer Rays – wear sunglasses and antlers
- Snowmen and shells – wear white and seashells
- Eating Elves – bring a dish to share and dress as an elf
Even though extreme heat caused some last-minute changes to the themes, everyone got into the spirit and enjoyed the crafts and games. Doors were decorated and Christmas music was enjoyed by all!
Exploring the Senses
What do you see? Did you hear something? Kait Benson recently led a lesson in exploring the five senses at the Slippery Rock Program Center. Individuals enjoyed the contrasting tastes of sweet, salty, and sour. Many liked the scent of freshly cut lemons. They experienced a variety of textures and identified several different colors while music softly played. Most agreed that the sweet taste of chocolate was their favorite.
Emma's Employment Journey
The Southwest Region’s Employment Services are continuing to see successful job placements for individuals seeking jobs in the community, including Emma. Emma has found her perfect match at the Punxsutawney Country Club. Emma’s job consists of making coffee, prepping food, and serving at the buffet. This job is a wonderful fit for her needs and she has been welcomed with open arms. Daggy, the manager of the country club, has been a champion of Emma’s employment journey from the very beginning. At a recent lunch visit to the country club with Emma, it was clear that the staff love her working there and that she is a very hard worker. Great job, Emma!
Special Equestrians
Over the past 12 months, the Special Equestrians completed an inaugural program at Merakey AVS’s Verree Road Campus in Philadelphia. Special Equestrians transported a therapy horse to the campus with whom the individuals were able to interact while relaxing in a mobility device. The individuals responded well to the calm and trusting nature of the horse. At just 31 inches tall, a chestnut Miniature mare named Glow is a welcome visitor to all – individuals and staff alike. It has been very rewarding to witness the meaningful connections that occur between the individuals and horses.
