Posted 9/19/2025
End of Summer Picnic
On Thursday, September 11, the Slippery Rock Program Center held its annual End of Summer Picnic at Grove City Park. Everyone had a great time feeding the geese, fishing in the pond, and participating in various activities under a clear blue sky. Wiffleball and the bean bag toss were popular. Some liked axe-throwing while others were happy to sit and blow bubbles. Many enjoyed using the giant parachute. Of course, having pizza for lunch was a huge hit. It was a perfect day to celebrate the changing of the seasons.
Teresa Wilkins 25 years at Merakey
Teresa Wilkins began her career at Merakey AVS on September 11, 2000 as a direct care worker, and soon after, became the Night Shift Supervisor at the Hummelstown, PA Main Campus. When Merakey AVS opened the Hummelstown Waiver Homes, Teresa transitioned to be a House Manager in two homes and also went back to school. In July 2010, she earned her degree as a Licensed Practical Nurse and began her new journey in nursing. Over several years, Teresa worked as an LPN and went back to school to obtain her degree as a Registered Nurse. In 2021, she received her Nursing degree and became the RN Waiver Coordinator. For the last two years, Teresa has shown her dedication to our individuals and staff as Assistant Health Services Supervisor.
She can always be found with a smile on her face and an encouraging word. As a true example of someone dedicated to Merakey’s core values, Teresa demonstrates the many ways an employee can move up through our company. She is a true Merakey superhero! When Teresa has down time, she spends as much time as she can with her husband, son, and two daughters and their families. Happy 25th Merakey anniversary, Teresa!
Leo the Therapy Dog
Meet Leo, beloved therapy dog! Over the past 12 months, Leo and his owner, a dedicated Occupational Therapist, completed their inaugural therapy dog program at Merakey AVS’s Philadelphia Campus. From bedrooms to activity rooms to the beautiful Sensory Garden, Leo made his rounds across campus, bringing comfort, connection, and joy to individuals of all mobility levels. Whether it was bedside or chair-side, Leo met everyone where they were.
His calm, trusting energy (or playful enthusiasm, depending on the moment) made him an instant favorite around campus. Activities like holding a leash, giving treats, cuddling, or getting a high-five were highlights of his visits. Leo’s impact has been paws-itively incredible, creating meaningful moments and brightening hearts every step of the way.
AVS Celebrates Rosh Hashanah
Individuals and staff came together to celebrate the Jewish New Year with the Friendship Circle of Pittsburgh, JOY, and The Branch at the Sally and Howard Levin Clubhouse in Squirrel Hill on Monday, September 15. The afternoon began with a Rosh Hashanah–inspired bingo game. As each symbol of the holiday was called, its meaning and significance were explained. Participants were treated to the traditional blowing of the shofar, a hollowed-out ram’s horn, by Michael and Rabbi Mordy.
The group shared how they plan to spend the new year and reflected on the symbolism of apples and honey, the traditional Rosh Hashanah foods. The lesson of honey, representing bees and overcoming a bee sting, was tied to overcoming adversity in the year ahead. Everyone enjoyed creating scratch art featuring Rosh Hashanah symbols and ended the celebration with light refreshments (including plenty of apples and honey) and warm socialization. This gathering marked only the second opportunity for the group to meet in person since transitioning from virtual meetings during the pandemic.
Fair Weather Activitie
Genny, Wendy, and Susan have been making the most of the beautiful weather with scenic walks and hikes around Pittsburgh.
Discovering Pittsburgh’s Northside
Janna had an awesome day discovering Pittsburgh’s Northside with staff members Vikki and Nicole!
