Merakey

With holiday shopping on the way, the ladies from Coleman home and Patricia Hillman Miller Campus are enjoying some fun trips to the mall.

Individuals at Hummelstown campus enjoyed a visit from very cute therapy dogs. Gifford and Cooper brought smiles to everyone's faces.

"Wellness Wednesday” continues to be a hit with its participants. This month’s activities included making ornaments, talking about what everyone was thankful for, and listening to Christmas jams. And most importantly, they ate some good food. They also welcomed new faces at this session. Everyone looks forward to the next Wellness Wednesday!

Happy Thanksgiving from Merakey to you and yours! 🍂

‘Tis the season for trips to Kraynak’s in Hermitage, PA! Groups from Nolte, Oakhaven, Ewings Mill II, Malcolm, Buckskin, Nyetimber, Great Oaks, Lincoln, and Slippery Rock loved exploring Kraynak’s Christmasland. Christmasland is a 300-foot indoor starlight avenue filled with themed trees, festive scenery, and life-like animated characters. Afterwards, some individuals went to eat at Golden Corral and the group from Slippery Rock enjoyed lunch at Eat 'n' Park complete with delicious milkshakes.

✨ Looking to make a difference this holiday season? In the spirit of giving, the Merakey Foundation is hosting its annual Toy Drive! Help us make the holidays special for PA children in Merakey's Foster Care and other programs. 🎅 You can participate in two ways: Financial donations will be accepted and given to Merakey elves to purchase gifts on your behalf. You can also purchase a gift from the Amazon Wish List and send it directly to the program site. 🎄To donate, or for more information, click here: https://ow.ly/t10L50XxMfY

Twenty-five years ago, after many years as a flight attendant, Rene Zimmerman began her next career at Merakey Allegheny Valley School. She started as a weekend Direct Support Professional so that she could spend more time at home with her children. After gaining a few years of experience, she became the House Manager for the Wilshire and Cedar Crest homes. In 2022, Rene was promoted to Assistant Administrator for ICF/Waiver homes, and soon after was appointed as the Director of Programs over waiver services. To say that Rene is a valuable asset to individuals in the waiver program in the Central Region is an understatement. "The individuals are my family," quips Rene, "I love taking care of them and working with a great team of coworkers at Merakey." Congratulations on 25 years, Rene!

Violence against women has no place in our homes, communities or world. We stand with survivors and support safety. Together, we can create communities where every woman lives with respect and hope.

Beth, a participant of the Dual Diagnosis Treatment Team in Washington County, was excited to participate in the fashion show at the Washington Crown Center. She stated that she "tore that runway up" and had a great time showing off her dress, hair, and make-up. It’s wonderful to see those who receive Merakey services do exciting things!

Kylee, Amy, Mick, Mark and Yvonne from Merakey New Ventures Portage took a trip to the farm. The individuals fed the horses, goats, pigs and a baby cow, all while learning about animals on the farm. Their smiles say it all!