PERSPECTIVES Vol. 24 No. 2 Providing community residential environments and therapeutic programs throughout Fall/Winter 2010 for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. ALLEGHENY VALLEY SCHOOL NEWS Black & Golden Anniversary Celebration a Shining Success On Wednesday, October 6, 450 new 50th anniversary video provided an people gathered to help Allegheny overview of AVS, its clients and staff, and Valley School (AVS) celebrate its 50 the services provided to the community. Years of Caring for children and The Premium Raffle winning ticket was adults with intellectual and drawn and announced by Greta and Art developmental disabilities. Greta Rooney—Tom Michael was the lucky and Art Rooney, II were the honorary winner of two tickets to Super Bowl XLV chairpersons of the Black & Golden and $1,000 cash (courtesy of the Anniversary Celebration. Steelers and Allegheny Valley Held at the Carnegie School). Museums of Pittsburgh in All the guests received a Oakland, the evening limited edition ® featured an outstanding (donated by the Pittsburgh performance by Mandy Steelers) and black and gold Patinkin in his critically Smiley Cookies (donated by acclaimed show Mandy Eat’n Park Hospitality Group). Patinkin DRESS CASUAL, “Greta and I are delighted that with Paul Ford on Piano. we were able to serve as the During his engaging Honorary Chairpersons for the performance in the Music Black & Golden event,” states Hall, Mandy Patinkin Art Rooney, II. ”The Pittsburgh amazed the audience with Steelers are proud to have been his talent as he sang show a part of Allegheny Valley tunes, told stories and Mandy Patinkin greets John, Parie and JD Duggan. School’s past, and we look performed some new pieces. forward to continuing our partnership through The Terrible Towel® The evening began with a cocktail reception in the grand Music long into the future.” Hall Foyer. Catering was provided by Parkhurst, flowers by The Black & Golden Anniversary Celebration grossed more than Hepatica, music by studio-e entertainment company, and linens by $315,000 for the Capital Development Fund; net proceeds will be Table Talk. used to support costs that are not reimbursable by Medicaid The evening’s events continued in the Music Hall with Allegheny including equipment, program expansion, renovations and Valley School’s President and CEO Regis G. Champ welcoming the property. crowd and paying tribute to the AVS employees who have all been critical to the success of the organization over the past 50 years. A See pages 6 and 7 for more about the Celebration. AVS Celebrates 50 Years On September 16, AVS locations state-wide celebrated 50 Years of Caring. Each resident and staff member received a celebratory t-shirt to wear on this special day. Celebrations throughout the state inclued: Champ “Visits” All AVS Locations President and CEO Regis Champ was not able to be at all 125+ AVS locations on September 16, but was able to be with residents and employees state-wide through a video presentation. Our golden anniversary celebration day fell within Pennsylvania’s Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week. So not only were we able to celebrate our anniversary, but also we formally honored our direct support professionals throughout the week. Filming for the video took place at the Patricia Hillman Miller Campus (PHMC), Pittsburgh Campus, Oakhaven and the Edward J. Zapp Program Center. Photos of residents and employees from locations around the AVS network were interspersed throughout. Residents and staff members who have been with AVS the longest were highlighted. See “Celebrations” continued on page 10. 1 www.avs.netwwww.w.avvss.nen t Allegheny Valley School • Decades of Growth

1960 - 1969 Allegheny Valley School was founded, organized and incorporated by Patricia Hillman Miller with help from Bob Prince and Doug Hannah. The original facility, located in a turn-of-the-century mansion on West Prospect Avenue in the Crafton/Ingram area of Pittsburgh, opened to provide care for ten clients. Throughout the 1960s, the building was expanded to accommodate the increased need for services. Patricia Hillman AVS’ original facility Miller 1970 - 1979 In 1973, AVS opened a 55-acre campus in Robinson Township. During the mid-1970s, as the national trend shifted the care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) from institutions to community living, AVS was among the first agencies in Pennsylvania to establish group homes. The first on-campus group home was opened in 1977. In 1978, the original campus on West Prospect Avenue was temporarily closed while plans were made and funds were raised for renovations.

1980 - 1989 The 1980s were a decade of tremendous growth for AVS. To accommodate individuals moving into the community from larger facilities, AVS opened three on-campus homes and 28 community group homes in Allegheny, Beaver, Butler and Mercer counties. The homes were opened to accommodate people from the Pennhurst State Center dispersal in 1984, and the closing of the Highland Park Center in 1985. In 1983, the original facility on West Prospect Avenue was reopened and named the Patricia Hillman Miller Campus. That same year, AVS participated with in founding the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, an event that continues to benefit Allegheny Valley School and the Autism Society of Pittsburgh. As the decade neared its end, AVS opened two day program facilities in western PA. AVS also began its state-wide expansion in 1989, taking over the operation of a facility in , establishing its Philadelphia Campus.

1990 - 1999 Expansion continued as AVS not only was asked to take over additional programs but also moved more individuals into community living arrangements. In 1994, AVS took over the operation of a residential facility in Butler County and another facility in Hummelstown, Dauphin County, the latter which extended services into central Pennsylvania. AVS expanded its program options to include supported living and family living/life sharing in 1997. Throughout the decade, AVS opened 44 community group homes across PA including 10 in Philadelphia County, 10 in Lebanon and Dauphin Counties, Hummelstown Campus and 24 in Allegheny, Beaver, Butler and Mercer Counties.

2000 – 2009 During the most recent decade, AVS continued moving individuals into the community. Thirty-nine (39) group homes were opened throughout the state to accommodate individuals impacted by facility closings including , Aspin Center and Greenwich Services. To better accommodate the increased number of clients, new program centers were opened in 2001 and 2005. Family living/life sharing programs also grew. To ensure that our services and quality would continue for decades to come, in 2008, the AVS Board of Directors announced that Allegheny Valley School would be acquired by NHS Human Services (www.nhsonline.org). The future of AVS and its longstanding commitment to the community was secured through its acquisition by NHS, the largest non-profit provider of services to individuals with I/DD in the country. By combining resources and talent, NHS and AVS can assure the highest quality of care as well as a stronger voice on behalf of the many individuals we serve.

Allegheny Valley School in 2010 From one location in 1960 to 128 programs and facilities in 9 counties today, AVS has come a long way since 1960. We could not have done this without our dedicated staff members who provide exceptional services to the individuals in our care. We also are grateful to the communities that welcome us and are our neighbors. And there are countless contributors who have generously supported us as we strive to live our mission and provide a place for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live, learn, work and play. Thank you! www.avs.net 2 Commemorative Bricks Celebrate 50 Years of Caring with a commemorative brick at AVS Commemorative Bricks PHMC. Bricks will display your special message or name(s)/ Help AVS celebrate 50 Years of Caring with an honorary brick business. Please complete the order form and return it to AVS’ that will be placed at our original location, the Patricia Hillman Corporate Center by March 31, 2011. Bricks will be placed at Miller Campus (PHMC). Choose your size, and create a message PHMC in spring/summer 2011. or list your name(s)/business. Thank you to the following commemorative brick donors. Name: ______Joan and Robert Andersen Diana and Bob Angelo & Family Phone: ______Angela and Thomas Bishop Roland Champ Family Address: ______Leslie Clifford Mary DeMarco ______Flora and John Dihtzeruk Deborah Douglass City: ______State: ____ Zip: ______Linda Fabian & Family Clyde E. Flickinger Email: ______Norine Fusca Kelly and Justin Gremba & Family Message requirements: The maximum number of characters per Ruth Hammond line is 21 (18 characters is recommended). Please note that a Jan and Dennis Harvilla space is considered a character. MaryAnn Harvilla HMAs and DCS of PHMC and Program Staff ____ 4” x 8” ($50.00) 4 lines maximum (3 lines recommended) Karen B. and William Hunter Cara C. King ______Evy and Robert Klingenberg, Sr. Martha L. Long ______Veronica and Harry Morgan Mary Jean Passant ______Larry Pesce and Family PHMC Nurses ______Amy and Chris Rocini Jan and Alan Sachs Daniel A. Torisky _____ 8” x 8” ($100.00) 8 lines maximum (7 lines recommended) Valerie Turner Eric B. Watters ______

Orders as of October 31, 2010. ______

Golden Anniversary Stars ______Thank you to the following AVS employees who, during 2010, have celebrated our 50th Anniversary with a $50 or more ______contribution to the Capital Development Fund: Diana Angelo HMA and DCS of PHMC and ______Cindy Champ Program Staff Regis Champ Gary Hoffman ______Roland Champ Karen Hunter Theresa Cox Cara C. King ______Carol Erzen Jay LaRocka Linda Fabian Barbara Malarik ______Clyde E. Flickinger Jim Pastin Dorothy Hunter Gordon PHMC Nurses Please print all the above information clearly. Make checks Kelly Gremba Richard Rizzutto payable to Allegheny Valley School Capital Development Fund Monica D. Hall Amy Rocini and send to: Allegheny Valley School, Attn: Development Dennis Harvilla Gary Rudzik Department, 1996 Ewings Mill Road, Coraopolis, PA 15108. To Jan Harvilla Irma Sokol pay by credit card, call (412) 299-7777. Jennifer Szopo Messages are subject to approval by Allegheny Valley School. Gifts received from January 1 – October 31, 2010. 3 www.avs.netwww.w avs.nen t NEWS Ewings Mill II: Teresa recently donated Pittsburgh Campus Activities 15 inches of her hair to Locks of Love. Teresa’s family wanted to make sure that Pet Therapy: The Pittsburgh Campus is fortunate to her hair went to a good cause. Locks of have on-going visits from some four-legged friends. Love is a non-profit organization that Therapy dogs Reily and Logan are trained by provides hair pieces to financially Pittsburgh Campus nurse Carrie Zaccaria. Carrie disadvantaged children who are suffering regularly brings the gentle dogs to visit and interact from long-term medical hair loss from any with the clients where they are welcomed diagnosis. Thank you Teresa! enthusiastically by the residents and staff members. Grubbs: The gentlemen hosted a picnic Greenhouse Activities: During the fall months, on September 18. More than 30 family Greenhouse Coordinator Debbie Dolan offered a Fall members and friends came together to Fun Days program in the LHAS Sensory Garden. share stories and laughs, and to get to know Activities included pumpkin carving and painting, fall their newest resident, Tim. The picnic was a crafts and decorating the garden. Residents had a great way to thank staff, families and friends variety of sensory experiences while working with the inside of a pumpkin, dried leaves, straw and fall corn. Mark participates in fall activities for their support all year long. in the LHAS Sensory Garden. Ken, Harry and Tim attended the Black & Golden Anniversary Celebration on Pittsburgh Symphony: More than 100 October 6. They were very excited to get residents and staff enjoyed a Pittsburgh their picture taken with the Super Bowl Symphony Orchestra (PSO) concert at the Trophy, enjoy the performance by Mandy Pittsburgh Campus on October 14. Thank Patinkin and socialize with staff and you to the musicians who attended and supporters of AVS. provided beautiful music for the residents. A quartet from the PSO also came to Pittsburgh Campus in July to perform a special outdoor concert. The performance took place in the LHAS Sensory Garden Greg and Patti enjoyed the performance by which provided a beautiful setting to enjoy the PSO Quartet. the music. Special Olympics: On October 3, nine athletes participated in a Special Olympics Soccer and Bocce Tournament. Pittsburgh Campus athletes were joined by 42 teams from Allegheny County for this fun-filled day. Congratulations to all athletes that participated! PHMC Activities Residents and staff from Grubbs with the Super Bowl XLIII Trophy. Harvest Festival: On September 30, PHMC held its first Harvest Festival. The program staff planned many hands-on activities including a pumpkin patch where residents could Harmony: The gentlemen had a busy pick and decorate their own pumpkins, fall crafts and pumpkin bowling. The sensory summer. They took an overnight trip to Erie room had buckets of shelled corn that residents could feel their way through to discover where they visited the Erie Zoo, Maritime not only the unique texture of the corn but also some whimsical prizes. Accompanying Museum, took a lunch boat cruise and the fun was a staff luncheon fundraiser. walked along the beach. Over the summer they also went to Kennywood Park, Living Cookbook: A cookbook featuring 75 pages of recipes has been created by staff Treasures Animal Park, Moraine State Park, members at PHMC. To order your cookbook, please contact Mary Curtz at McConnells Mills, fishing at West Sunbury [email protected] or 412-921-7755. Cookbooks are only $5 each! pond and enjoyed many rounds of mini-golf. Summer Outings: The residents at PHMC enjoyed many off-campus trips over the summer. Outings included trips to Kennywood Park, the Wings Over Pittsburgh air show, AVS Seeks Ticket fishing at Leopold Lake, Camp Variety and evening walks on the North Shore. Donations Allegheny Valley School is seeking ticket donations to sporting and arts & Remembering Jim Stringer cultural events, animal shows, family On September 4, long-time AVS employee Jim Stringer passed away. Jim worked in entertainment and more! Your ticket the Program Department at PHMC initially as a Recreation Therapist and for many years donation will be used by AVS’ clients as a Program Instructor. Many of the staff have commented on how well he was able and their accompanying staff. Please to address the needs of the residents. Jim’s upbeat personality, love of music and send your ticket donations to Amy Rocini devotion to his family and the residents at PHMC will truly be missed. A memorial at Allegheny Valley School’s Corporate brick will be placed at PHMC in Jim’s honor. Center. www.avs.net 4 CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA NEWS Cedar Crest: In September, resident Pamela and staff members favorites was “Casino Day” which included games, food, and an took an overnight trip to Gettysburg. They went to a ghost stories Elvis impersonator. dinner theatre, the Civil War Museum and the Boyd’s Bear Poplar: In August, the ladies took a trip to Lake Tobias. They Factory where Pamela was able to build her own bear. enjoyed touring the park and seeing the animals including Church: Ronald spent the 4th of July week at Eagle’s Springs buffalo and a baby kangaroo. Thank you to the staff of Lake Campground. He had a wonderful time visiting with his friends Tobias for their wonderful hospitality. from last year, making crafts, swimming, sitting around the South Hills: The residents had a busy summer. In June, campfire and seeing nightly entertainment. Ron is already Wayne, Steven, Cindy and others attended the Brooks and Dunn looking forward to next year’s camping season. concert at the Giant Center. In July, the residents and staff went The gentlemen enjoyed several outings to the Traditions of to Camp Sertoma and enjoyed swimming, a cook-out and Hershey, an active retirement community that hosts various dancing. themed events throughout the year. One of the residents’ EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA NEWS

Byberry: This past summer, the residents enjoyed their annual Spirit of Friendship boat cruise. The guys had a great time sailing down the Delaware River, singing and dancing along to music provided by a DJ. During the summer months, the gentlemen enjoyed many barbeques and eating-out at their favorite restaurants. They also attended monthly dances at the Carousel House, bowling at Dave & Buster’s and a movie night. They took a summer trip to Atlantic City and stayed at the Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino. They enjoyed walking on the boardwalk, dining-out and listening to the sounds of the games in the casino.

Philadelphia Campus Activities Visit to the Mann Center: On August 10, individuals attended a performance through The Mann Sam’s Graduation Party: Center for the Performing Arts at Fairmount Park. They saw the 12th Annual Young People’s Concert Residents and staff hosted a Series presentation of Dance Voyage which included The Coyle School of Irish Dance, Danza graduation party on July 9 Mexican Dance Company, and Universal African Dance & Drum Ensemble. The group embarked for Sam. The night was on a multicultural journey through the beautiful traditions of Ireland, Mexico and West Africa. It celebrated with a pizza was an excellent day of celebrating exciting and diverse cultures with dancing and music. party and dancing, and a Camden Adventure Aquarium: On August 27, individuals visited the Camden Adventure beautifully decorated Aquarium where they had the graduation cake. opportunity to see and touch creatures from under the sea. Chris, Elizabeth and others enjoyed their experience in the touch tank with stingrays and starfish. The Aquarium’s new touch tanks allowed individuals to dip into the water and gain firsthand experience with the smell, touch and sounds of the ocean. The individuals also enjoyed their trip through the Shark Tunnel that allowed prime viewing at a comfortable distance. The group finished the day Congratulations to Sam on with a delicious lunch inside The his graduation. Feeding Frenzy Café. Chris touches a starfish at the Aquarium.

Memorial and Honorary Giving Matching Gifts Program The Memorial and Honorary Giving Program offers you a You may be able to double or even triple your donation to meaningful way to extend condolences or congratulations to Allegheny Valley School through a Matching Gifts Program. friends and family members and also help Allegheny Valley Many corporations offer such programs to their employees School. and retirees. Check with your employer to find out if it offers If you would like to receive one of AVS’ Memorial and a Matching Gifts Program that will enable you to greatly Honorary Giving Program packets, please contact the increase your support of AVS. Development Department at (412) 299-7777.

5 www.avs.net GOLDEN PRESENTING SPONSOR Elsie and Henry Hillman

Cindy and Regis Champ We are grateful to everyone who supported t

Greta and Art Rooney, II HONORARY C Greta and A SILVER SP Henry L. Hillm Mandy Patinkin and STEEL SPO Liz Greco-Rocks and Nadine E Senator M. Joseph Rocks Buncher Fami Peggy and Ji Kris Hughes and Jeanne and Mark Baseman, Linda Indovina, Carol Friends of Alleghe Barb and Tom McGrail Caroselli, Linda Miller and Jan Meade Pittsburgh Steel BRONZE S Cindy and Regis Champ Guardian Protection Services, Inc. Combined Parents Association, Inc. of HAR-KEL, INC. Medical Specialties Southeastern Pennsylvania Audrey Hillman Fisher Foundation Patricia and John K. Duggan, Jr. J&P Service Management Co., Inc.

Dorothy and Ben Pollon and IRON SPO Bonnie Walker A & G Pharmacy Service, Inc. The Graham Company GMI Electric Tricia and Bill Kassling Dorothy and Michael Gordon Lincoln Benefits Group Nanette and Ira Gordon Linton’s Managed Services Ina and Larry Gumberg Mastech Construction & Interiors, Inc. McArthur Towel & Sports EVENT DON Baierl Automotive JoAnn L. Edwards Amy and Terry Bilkey Thomas Flannery, Resources for Management, Inc. BLACKBURN’S The Giant Eagle Foundation Pam and Bill Bodak Audrey Hillman Fisher Foundation Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney Dorothea and Converse Hunter Richard Burkland and Kitty Hillman Gina Kallick/Continental Laundry Systems Inc. Paul Coury Laura Penrod Kronk Debra and Frank Drew Debra and Kurt Limbach PRECIOUS META Donna and Patti and Robert Americus Elsie and Henry Hillman Terrence McNelis Courtney and Tim Borntraeger Laura Penrod Kronk Babe and Joe Gordon Linda and Stuart Miller Mandy Patinkin and Peggy and Jim Douglass

Diane and Courtney and Tony Barna Robi www.avs.net Brooke and Clint Guyaux Tim Borntraeger 6 Rita Parie Duggan and COMMITTEE Elsie Hillman Patricia Miller Duggan, Event Chairperson Diane Barna Jim Douglass Laura Penrod Kronk Linda Miller Dorothy Pollon Rita Randall Bonnie Walker the Black & Golden Anniversary Celebration!

HAIRPERSONS Mandy Patinkin and Art Rooney, II Nadine Bognar PONSOR man Foundation Derrick Yacovelli ONSORS and Kevin McClure E. Bognar ly Foundation im Douglass eny Valley School Residents from Elise and lers Sports, Inc. Ewings Mill II Nat Hunter SPONSORS Mandy Patinkin Larrimor’s Rosebud Mining Company and Toni J. Pacé Eileen and Bernard Schneider Mary Jo Dorothy and Neal Pollon & Family STAT Staffing Medical Services, Inc. The Charity Randall Foundation UPMC and UPMC Health Plan ONSORS Barb and Tom McGrail Ritchie Scaife Mongiovi & Son Plumbing, Excavating & Dan Taylor Interiors, Inc. Fire Protection TUDI Mechanical Systems Senator M. Joseph Rocks, Kevin UPMC Cancer Centers McClure, Terrence McNelis, Leah Pason

ORS ($250+) Francis S. McGuire Cris and Alex Scott Karen and Jack Meck Gwen and Jeff Steigerwalt Millennium Pharmacy Systems, Inc. Straka & Gustine, LLP Charlotte B. Morris The Strunk Family NHS Foundation and Annual Sponsors Jack Wilberger MD Jillian Zacks Oxford Development Company Debi Wheeler and Tom Michael RAK Medical, Inc. Charles Zvirman Susanne and William Rielly L RESERVATIONS Fred Morelli Bonnie Walker Leah Pason, Richard Scott Lea Simonds Debi Wheeler and Jane Rivera Rose and Bill Strickland Sally Wiggin PHMC Staff Debi Wheeler Meg Eberly and Michelle and and Dan DelBianco Laura Penrod Kronk

in and www.avs.netwww.w avvs.s net Randall 7 ALLEGHENY VALLEY SCHOOL NEWS AVS Golf Open The 2010 Friends of AVS Golf Open presented by AVS Foundation was held on Monday, August 16. On a beautiful day, 88 golfers teed off at Churchill Valley Country Club for the 19th annual event. Throughout the day participants enjoyed a golf scramble and challenges on the course. A new competition, “Beat the Champ,” gave participants a chance to beat the tee shot of AVS’ President & CEO Regis G. Champ. Approximately 20 golfers beat Mr. Champ’s shot which entitled them to a chance to win a cash prize and two tickets to the Black & Golden Anniversary Celebration. Congratulations to final winners George Pihiou and Casey Milligan! The event grossed more than $110,000! Net proceeds have been contributed to the Capital Development Fund to support expenses that are not reimbursable by Medicaid including new program development, facility improvements, property and equipment. Thank you to all our sponsors, underwriters, donors, golfers, volunteers and other Congratulations to the winning foursome, participants who helped to make the day a huge success. Dan Taylor Interiors, Inc. A full list of sponsors, underwriters and donors is below.

Presenting Sponsor Mongiovi & Son Plumbing, Excavating & Leah Pason & Richard Scott, NHS Fire Protection Administration & Communications Pacifico Marple Ford Lincoln Mercury STAT Staffing Medical Services, Inc. Suzuki Deanna Telese, Corporate Controller, NHS Human Services Underwriters US Medical Staffing, Inc. A & G Pharmacy Service, Inc. Union Orthotics & Prosthetics Co. Gold Sponsors Anna & Ed Dunlap, Culinary Concepts of Vision Benefits of America Guardian Protection Services, Inc. Pittsburgh Walgreens Infusion & Respiratory Services Eileen and Bernard Schneider The Family of Tracy Kmetz Dan Taylor Interiors, Inc. NHS Foundation and Annual Sponsors Donors Toni J. Pacé / J&P Service Management A & G Pharmacy Service, Inc. Silver Sponsors Co., Inc. Al’s Service The Graham Company Patterson & Associates Certified Public Patricia and John K. Duggan, Jr. HAR-KEL, INC. Medical Specialties Accountants Paul Euwer, Jr. J&P Service Management Co., Inc. STAT Staffing Medical Services, Inc. PNC Bank Kennedy PJP Sports, Inc. Healthcare Licensed Personnel, LLC TUDI Mechanical Systems Willits Pharmacy Services, Inc. Mandi Foods Inc. Francis S. McGuire Bronze Sponsors Tee Signs Thomas J. McKnight Blackburns Physicians Pharmacy, Inc. A & G Pharmacy Service, Inc. Millennium Pharmacy Systems, Inc. Doyle Alliance Group, Inc. JoAnn Edwards & the NHS HR Team Toni J. Pacé GMI Electric JADCO Construction, Inc. George Pihiou HealthAmerica Hinkel-Hofmann Floor Coverings Bernard F. Roche Higher Information Group Francis S. McGuire Vincent Siciliano Linton’s Managed Services Ohio Valley Lumber Company Tri-State Mobile X-Ray Mastech Construction & Interiors, Inc. Omnicare Medical Supply of PA US Medical Staffing, Inc US Foodservice

Medal of Honor Donors Listed below are sponsors, underwriters and monetary donors to both our Black & Golden Anniversary Celebration and the Friends of AVS Golf Open. Thank you to these Medal of Honor contributors for their generous support of both 2010 events! A & G Pharmacy Service, Inc. J&P Service Management Co., Inc. NHS Foundation and Annual Sponsors AVS Foundation Linton’s Managed Services Toni J. Pacé Patricia and John K. Duggan, Jr. Mastech Construction & Interiors, Inc. Pittsburgh Steelers Sports, Inc. GMI Electric Francis S. McGuire Eileen and Bernard Schneider The Graham Company Millennium Pharmacy Systems, Inc. STAT Staffing Medical Services, Inc. Guardian Protection Services, Inc. Mongiovi & Son Plumbing, Excavating & Dan Taylor Interiors, Inc. HAR-KEL, INC. Medical Specialties Fire Protection TUDI Mechanical Systems www.avs.net 8 ALLEGHENY VALLEY SCHOOL NEWS Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix The 28th Annual Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP) was a huge success. Race weekend took place July 24-25 at Schenley Park where thousands of spectators cruised the car shows, enjoyed the festivities and watched the vintage car races. For the fifth year, Brandon Fisher of AVS and Anita Iyengar of the Autism Society of Pittsburgh (ASP) were the PVGP event ambassadors. They were busy making appearances throughout the week. They attended and rode in cars at the BeaveRun Historic races on July 18, and also participated in the Opening Ceremony Parade on July 25. Thank you once again to SHOP’n SAVE, the PVGP’s presenting sponsor, for its continued commitment to this grand event. SHOP’n SAVE’s generous support, along with the support of many other sponsors, enables the PVGP to continue providing 10 days of activities that are open to the public. Thank you also to the many volunteers who generously gave their time to support the event. We are most appreciative of the parents, friends and family members of AVS and the ASP who volunteer to sell merchandise during race weekend. So many contribute to the success of this important event and we are grateful to each and every sponsor, driver, volunteer, donor and participant. On October 27, a check presentation was held at the Wyndham Hotel Pittsburgh University Place to deliver the proceeds from the 2010 event to AVS and ASP. This year, $150,000 was shared between the two charities, bringing the 28-year combined total contributed to $2.7 million. PVGP Ambassadors Anita and Brandon at the check For more information about the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, please visit presentation. www.pvgp.org. Other Ways to Help AVS Attention Giant Eagle Shoppers! Allegheny Valley School participates in the Giant Campbell’s Labels for Education Program Eagle Apples for the Students program and we need Help AVS acquire classroom equipment and accessories by your help. Each purchase at Giant Eagle, Giant Eagle saving and sending in your Campbell’s labels. The equipment Market District, Giant Eagle Express and Get Go received through the program helps to enhance the programming counts when the supporter scans an Advantage Card at we provide to the individuals at AVS. Simply save your Campbell’s checkout (through March 14, 2011). proofs of purchase with the Labels for Education logo and send Please register using AVS’ school ID # 0017. Each time your them to Kelly Gremba at the Corporate Center. card is scanned, your purchases will count toward free equipment Recycling cell phones and ink cartridges for AVS! How to Register: Please send your used printer, fax and copier cartridges as well Have your Giant Eagle Advantage Card® ready and call or as old cell phones to Kelly Gremba at the Corporate Center. AVS register online. Please indicate our school ID # 0017. earns money for the Capital Development Fund simply by recycling Call 1-800-474-4777. these used cartridges and cell phones that were destined for the Or visit www.gianteagle.com to register online. When visiting trash. (Please note that we cannot accept Epson cartridges or the website: cartridges that have already been recycled.) Since 2003, AVS has 1. Click on About Us received $3,827 from recycling these products! 2. Scroll to Supporting Our Schools and click on Our Educational Please forward Campbell’s labels, used ink cartridges and cell Initiatives phones to Kelly Gremba, Allegheny Valley School, Corporate Center, 3. Follow registration directions 1996 Ewings Mill Road, Coraopolis, PA 15108. 4. Click Register (if applicable) Shopping at Target Thank you for your support! Use your REDcard (Target® VISA® Credit Card, Target Credit Card and Target Check Card) to shop at Target, Target.com and elsewhere and Target will donate a portion of the purchases to Allegheny Valley School. To apply for a REDCard, please visit your View employment opportunities and apply nearest Target store or apply online at www.target.com/redcard. Designate AVS’ school ID # 126464 by calling 1-800-316-6142, online at www.avs.net. using the store kiosk or visiting www.target.com/tcoe. This program helps to raise money for AVS’ Capital Development Fund. 9 www.avs.net ALLEGHENYALLEGHENY VVALLEYALLEY SSCHOOLCHOOL NNEWSEWS “Celebrations” continued from page 1. Jermel Black, Patricia Hickman, Justin Fierst, Jean Germain, Anita Houston (accompanied by Reatha Marshall), Sadie Keller and The video spoke of AVS’ history, development and growth, and Christine King. future. It also honored the dedicated employees who are the Participants also enjoyed a variety of carnival activities that were reason for our success. In Champ’s words from the video: creatively designed by PHMC staff members. In honor of the “At Allegheny Valley School we are incredibly proud of the Golden Anniversary, there was a Sense of Gold booth that had programs and facilities we have built. But we couldn’t do any of clients feel their way through lemon and pineapple Jell-O to find this without YOU. You, our dedicated employees, are the reason for golden treasures. Other booths included Pin-the-Towel on Myron’s our success. You understand and live our mission. You care for our hand, Pin-the-Microphone to Bob Prince, make your own festive residents. You honor one another. Thank you for being a part of visor and postcard, fish for gold and a Vintage Grand Prix race. AVS and this momentous 50 year celebration. And a special thanks While waiting for their turn to go through the booths, clients were to our amazing direct support visited by the Tropical Sands Steel Band that performed in each of professionals who are the heart and the living areas. hands of Allegheny Valley School. Philadelphia Campus: Residents and staff celebrated with the The dignity, caring, concern and love theme of 50 Years of Sound and Music. Activities included music that you bring to our residents each from a local band, karaoke, a DJ, dancing and a presentation by a and every day is Allegheny Valley local dance studio. Residents played games and did the limbo. School’s greatest point of pride. Everyone enjoyed a cook-out and covered dish lunch with Thank you for your service and homemade cakes made by staff members and residents from each thanks to all of our employees, of the apartments. support services staff, residents, Philadelphia Program Center: The family members and friends for celebration included a dance contest, karaoke helping us achieve 50 years of caring and musical performances by staff members. Nancy Metro, Greg at Allegheny Valley School.” Everyone shared a potluck lunch and home- Davidson and Barb Quigley Corporate Center: Staff in western made cakes. from the Information PA celebrated with a door/cube Pittsburgh Technologies Department decorating contest and a pot luck Campus: show-off their creativity. lunch. Celebration Hummelstown Campus: The special day was celebrated with day welcomed Thomas participates the annual Fall activities including the United Way of the Capital Region Day of in karaoke. Caring. Five staff members from the McClure Company participated Festival. Activities in fun activities at the Campus. included a bake sale, BBQ lunch, The day started with music petting zoo and a performance by the provided by AVS’ own DJ Pittsburgh Campus Choir. There was William. Hershey Park’s also an AVS memory booth that ZooAmerica provided a displayed pictures and memories of wildlife presentation entitled residents and staff over the past 50 Paws, Claws, Scales & Tales. years. Rain washed out the festival Residents, volunteers and staff parade and Pierogi race (which was members enjoyed a picnic rescheduled and carried out on Adam and Chuck pose for lunch in the backyard pavilion September 30). The day concluded a picture at the Wild, Wild AVS resident Eugene and McClure where Central/Eastern Director with a dance including music by the West booth. Company volunteer Lynne Desantis Roland Champ gave a special band American Pie. use the parachute during outdoor toast to AVS and its dedicated Slippery Rock Program Center: activities. staff. The rainy weather didn’t dampen the Kennedy Program Center (KPC): Residents and staff celebrated celebration. Events from the day the anniversary day with activities and games. Festivities included included a beach ball toss, bean bag a Piñata, bean bag toss, hot potato game and more. During a corn hole and ping-pong. Some special ceremony in the morning, Chief Development Officer even braved the weather and played Dorothy Hunter Gordon was presented with a homemade card in wiffle ball outside. The afternoon honor of the celebration. The card featured the faces of each highlighted the singing talents of the resident of KPC, with special messages written about the 50th individuals during a karaoke dance Anniversary. party. Lunch included a cookout and Patricia Hillman Miller Campus (PHMC): AVS’ 50 Years of delicious cakes and cupcakes made Caring was celebrated with a carnival. Staff members entertained by the Food Prep Area. Everyone was the clients with a talent show. With Sylvester Price serving as very excited to participate in the Cindy and Jeff dance along celebration. master of ceremonies, the many in attendance cheered on acts by to the music. www.avs.net 10 ALLEGHENY VALLEY SCHOOL NEWS “Celebrations” continued from page 10. Wildwood: The gentlemen cel- ebrated by watching the anniversary Edward J. Zapp Program Center: Residents and staff started the video, making crafts and having a day with a parade of flags in the parking lot. They spent the rest of silly string battle. Their evening the morning participating in relay competitions in the classrooms. concluded by wishing AVS a happy The afternoon was filled with games and the celebration came to birthday with cake and ice cream. close with a cake social. Hookstown and Mayhue: Herb and others from Wildwood These two homes came together celebrate with a silly string battle. for a celebratory dinner. After dinner, everyone enjoyed a Ewings Mill II and Nolte specially decorated 50th anniversary cake and listened to The ladies from Ewings the top 100 songs from 1960. Mill II and Nolte came The Yusavage family donated together for a picnic to Residents and staff from home-grown pumpkins which celebrate AVS’ golden Mayhue celebrate AVS’ 50th were carved with the AVS logo anniversary. anniversary. and painted blue.

Anniversary Quilt Clients and staff members throughout AVS created a beautiful quilt to commemorate our 50 Years of Caring. Residential, programming and administrative departments created quilt squares that demonstrated what AVS means to them. Squares featured sensory equipment, client fingerprints, client and staff pictures, and many more colorful and creative squares. The four corners of the quilt are The Terrible Towel®, Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, Allegheny Valley School and NHS Human Services. The squares represent the anchors that have helped AVS grow and prosper during the past 50 years, and will help to keep it thriving for years to come. A special thank you goes to Betsy Uslenghi who spent many hours sewing the squares together to create this masterpiece. The 50th Anniversary Quilt made its debut at the Black & Golden Anniversary Celebration on October 6.

More Ways to Donate Your gift to the United Way, the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) or through the State Employee Combined Appeal (SECA) can be directed to Allegheny Valley School’s Capital Development Fund. Unless donors specifically indicate AVS, no funds will come to us. To designate AVS, write in Allegheny Valley School’s name and agency code on the pledge form. We ask that you authorize the release of your name to us so we can acknowledge your generosity.

Allegheny Valley School’s Agency Codes United Way of Allegheny County (Southwestern PA) 373 United Way of Southeastern PA 9076 United Way of the Capital Region 3026 Central Pennsylvania Combined Federal Campaign 15451 3 Rivers/Pennsylvania West CFC, Pittsburgh 15451 Combined Federal Campaign, Philadelphia 15451 Donate online at State Employee Combined Appeal (SECA) 4601-0045 www.avs.net.

11 www.avs.netwwww.w ava s.net ALLEGHENY VALLEY SCHOOL NEWS Sensory News In July, the Quarterly Discussion Group met at the Slippery Rock Program Center to hear about the development of its sensory garden. The garden opened in October 2009, and features a variety of plants, exploration bins and outdoor activities including swings, musical instruments, a large flower sensory wheel and more. This past summer a fruit and vegetable garden was planted which, along with the herb garden, are used by the food prep area. Attendees from the quarterly meeting had a chance to tour the garden and hear about the activities that take place in each area. The next meeting will be held in December at AVS’ Pittsburgh Campus. Tom Marshall from Sens-Aura by Southpaw, a therapeutic equipment company, will be demonstrating and showing videos about new sensory equipment. If you are interested in attending a Quarterly Discussion Group meeting, please contact Cindy Potter at [email protected]. Grant News We are most grateful for each and every contribution that AVS receives. Every gift is PittsburghGives put to good use to help improve the quality of life of the individuals in our care. Since The Pittsburgh Foundation’s second May 1, 2010, we have received numerous grants and contributions to our Capital annual Day of Giving was held on Development Fund that are supporting efforts to enhance our programs and facilities to Wednesday, October 13, through the better meet the needs of our clients. Thank you to the following trusts, foundations, PittsburghGives website. This year the companies and organizations for their support of AVS’ Capital Development Fund: matching period ran for 24-hours and each nonprofit received a portion of the Allegheny Valley School Parents Association pool of matching dollars from The Anonymous Pittsburgh Foundation. AVS Foundation AVS received 23 donations through The Giant Eagle Foundation PittsburghGives totaling $8,139. Once Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Association the matching funds were applied, AVS received an additional $1,627.80 from Grants and contributions of $5,000 or more received May 1 - October 31, 2010. In The Pittsburgh Foundation. Thank you to addition, please see pages 6, 7 and 8 for a listing of contributors to the Black & Golden all who participated! Anniversary Celebration and Friends of AVS Golf Open. The mission of Allegheny Valley School is to provide quality programs and facilities to help the individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities entrusted to our care to live with purpose and dignity, and to provide opportunities and choices for our clients to grow and function at their full potential as independently as possible. If you receive duplicate copies of this newsletter, would like someone to be added to the mailing list or would like your name removed from it, please call the Development Department at (412) 299-7777.

Life-long opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities

ALLEGHENY VALLEY SCHOOL Corporate Center Pittsburgh Campus Central Pennsylvania Community PERSPECTIVES is published by 1996 Ewings Mill Road 1992 Ewings Mill Road Group Homes, Family Living/ Allegheny Valley School, a private, Coraopolis, PA 15108-3380 Coraopolis, PA 15108-3399 Life Sharing Programs non-profit organization providing (412) 299-7777 (412) 262-3500 c/o 1291 Middletown Road residential and therapeutic programs Hummelstown, PA 17036-8929 for children and adults with Hummelstown Campus Slippery Rock Program Center (717) 566-3267 intellectual and developmental 1291 Middletown Road 125 Rebecca Lane disabilities, most who also have Hummelstown, PA 17036-8929 Slippery Rock, PA 16057-8519 Eastern Pennsylvania Community multiple physical disabilities, (717) 566-3267 (724) 794-1362 Group Homes, Family Living/ extensive medical complications and Patricia Hillman Miller Campus Edward J. Zapp Program Center Life Sharing Programs some who have behavioral 315 West Prospect Avenue 140 Coketown Road c/o 380 Red Lion Road, Suite 201 management needs. Allegheny Valley Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006-6451 School is An NHS Human Services Pittsburgh, PA 15205-1924 Coraopolis, PA 15108-3316 (215) 947-4189 Company. Please send comments (412) 921-7755 (412) 262-1553 and suggestions to: Philadelphia Campus Kennedy Program Center Western Pennsylvania Community 9990 Verree Road 1806 Pine Hollow Road Group Homes, Supported Living, Dorothy Hunter Gordon Philadelphia, PA 19115-1397 McKees Rocks, PA 15136-1538 Apartments, Family Living/ Chief Development Officer (215) 677-9500 (412) 778-2540 Life Sharing Programs Allegheny Valley School c/o 1996 Ewings Mill Road 1996 Ewings Mill Road Philadelphia Administrative Offices Philadelphia Program Center Coraopolis, PA 15108-3380 Coraopolis, PA 15108-3380 380 Red Lion Road, Suite 201 3190 Tremont Avenue (412) 299-7777 Telephone (412) 299-7777 Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006-6451 Trevose, PA 19053-6644 (215) 947-4189 (215) 364-1750 Web Site: www.avs.net Regis G. Champ A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF ALLEGHENY VALLEY SCHOOL MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE PENNSYLVANIA President and CEO DEPARTMENT OF STATE BY CALLING TOLL FREE, WITHIN PENNSYLVANIA, 1-800-732-0999. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT. www.avs.net 12