Merakey

Merakey’s Blended Case Management team (JRC), located in Lewistown PA, is observing BIPOC Mental Health Awareness month this July. The team added posters and literature at their location highlighting the life and work of Bebe Moore Campbell, founder of Minority Mental Health Month back in 2008. For more information, explore the BIPOC Mental Health Toolkit provided by Mental Health America at https://ow.ly/hYUS50SHKwE and visit the BIPOC Mental Health Resource Center at https://ow.ly/OWCf50SHKwF.

Congratulations to Tinea Jenkins on her 40th work anniversary! Tinea was presented with a plaque from Merakey and gifts cards from all her coworkers. As the Medical Office Manager in the Sharon Hill, PA office, she assists with the Medical Records and Business Office needs for all of Delaware County. She also picks up extra shifts in the residential areas and is always willing to pitch in and help whenever and wherever needed. Tinea started with Merakey when she was in high school on a work study, after which she became a full-time employee at Merakey Delaware County. Tinea always has a positive attitude, a smile on her face, and a way of making people laugh even through stressful times. 40 years is a remarkable milestone and Tinea is a remarkable employee. She exudes dedication, emulates teamwork, and is the perfect example of leading by doing. Thank you, Tinea!

The Recreational staff at Merakey AVS’s Pittsburgh Campus held a bowling and ice cream social for their bowling league. Everyone had a blast! 🎳

Earlier this month, Musicologist Thomas Abericci joined the residence and staff at Merakey AVS on Verree Road in Philadelphia for an evening of interactive music therapy. As Thomas played the piano, the residents and staff joined along playing a variety of instruments from a gigantic drum to a bell the size of a hand and everything in between. The event ended with Happy Birthday sung to Shawn, who recently turned 42 years old. This musical experience promoted the residents’ gross and fine motor, socialization, self-determination, and leisure skills. 🎶

Billy from Merakey AVS Sunset home and his family recently treated his staff and friends to a luxury suite at the Pittsburgh Pirates game on fireworks night. Billy, Tommy, Michael, Rusty, Genny, Wendy, Cierra, and Kevin had a blast at PNC Park and even got a visit from the Pirate Parrot and one of the Pierogies!

Congratulations to Iris Higgins, Direct Support Professional of the Quarter! Iris has been with Merakey AVS at Patricia Hillman Miller Campus for 22 years, and she received her award on her work anniversary. The nomination highlighted her commitment to others, her outstanding relationships with co-workers, and her compassion for the individuals she supports. The DSP of the quarter is awarded through Steven’s Fund to recognize Merakey Allegheny Valley School Direct Support Professionals in Central PA. The fund was created in 2017 in memory of Steven Garlick by his mother Betsy Friedman. To contribute to the fund, visit https://ow.ly/n7V550SEFMM and include “Steven’s Fund” in the “other” and/or “comments / instructions” box.

Did you know our employees can get paid daily? Apply today and get your earnings when you want them! Explore our career opportunities at https://ow.ly/yn2450SCBzI! #hiring #dailypay #dailypaynation

Dan Gilmore, LPC, Senior Clinical Director of the Children and Family Services Division, presented on “Safety Planning with Youth in Crisis: An Eco-Systemic Approach” at the 38th Annual Family Focused Treatment Association Conference in Denver, Colorado, on July 9. The FFTA Conference is a national event that brings together leaders, practitioners, and partners in the sector to leverage our collective knowledge and share proven solutions for advancing wellness for all families and communities.

The individuals and staff from 159 E. County Line Road and 4700 Wissahickon Avenue Day Program enjoyed a day of fun, music, and food at the Summer Jam at Neshaminy State Park in Bensalem, PA. 🎶 Prior to the event, the individuals and staff made t-shirts to celebrate the occasion.

Merakey Woodhaven bid Samantha Warner a bittersweet farewell last month. Sam began coming to Woodhaven with her aunt when she was six years old. She eventually became a staff member and rose to Associate Executive Director of Day Services as she pursued her bachelor’s, master’s, and now Doctoral degree. She successfully defended her Doctoral Dissertation on June 13 and is now completing her internship. Congratulations, Dr. Warner!