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Melmark Celebrates its 2nd Annual Heritage FestivalCelebrating its dedicated and internationally diverse staff, Melmark sponsored its second annual Heritage Festival on September 14 and 5. The two-day event, planned and directed by Melmark’s staff, highlighted the unique talents, contributions and cultural assets of Melmark’s 600 employees, who collectively represent over 42 countries. “We are very proud of this employee-driven event”, said Andrew Ward, executive director of Human Resources. “The Heritage Festival included activities for our staff and for the clients we serve, including a colorful display of 42 large international flags encircling our entrance drive; an international fashion show, staff soccer games, an international food buffet, and dance and music events.” Joanne Gillis-Donovan, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of Melmark said, “As an organization, we recognize that the success of Melmark continues to rest on the talents and dedication of our staff. The Heritage Festival gives us the opportunity to learn a little bit more about each other’s cultural background. It also provides a unique educational opportunity for our clients. We see the international diversity of our staff as a definite asset for Melmark and for those we serve.” The Melmark 2007 Fall Harvest Festival Welcomes Vanguard Charitable Foundation VolunteersA large group of employees from The Vanguard Charitable Endowment Program, an independent public charity established by Vanguard in 1997, volunteered their time to make September 11 Melmark Fall Harvest Festival, a special day of fun and games for the children and adults with disabilities who attend Melmark. “The contribution made by the volunteers is invaluable because, regardless of their age and level of disabilities, all our residents love to meet visitors and make new friends,” said Cyndie Martin, Melmark Director of Corporate and Community Affairs as she welcomed a cheerful battalion of 36 Vanguard volunteers. Under the leadership of James Barnes, Vanguard Director of Client Relations and Development, the group helped the children participate in games such as Sports Blast, a Treasure Hunt, Ba-skee-Ball and the ever-popular Moon Bounce. Following a luncheon, the Meadows and Adult Day students joined in for an afternoon of great fun and fellowship in the new renovated multi-purpose room. “Corporate philanthropic and community support enhances the lives of those served at Melmark. Clubs and organizations have also greatly contributed to the development of special programs designed to make Melmark the premier provider of services for people with disabilities. We are most grateful for the dedication of volunteers such as the remarkable Vanguard employees,” added Cyndie.
Melmark Art Show Opens in June At the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce Recognized for its creative and therapeutic art program, Melmark opened its Traveling Art Show on Monday, June 4 at the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce in Media. Melmark, forged alliances with community centers and local businesses to identify venues for the display of artwork created by its students and residents. “We are excited about opening our traveling art show at the Media Headquarters of the Delaware County Chamber,” says Melmark art teacher Jim Sekula. Under his tutelage, children and young adults create magnificent collages and some intriguing paintings. The exhibit will be open to the public during regular business hours from June 4 through June 28, 2007. The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is located 602 East Baltimore Pike in Media, PA “We are grateful to Jeff Vermeullen, Executive Vice President of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce for hosting this art exhibit. Because people with developmental disabilities are often overlooked, we strive to bring better community awareness and understanding about their accomplishments through such events as this art show.” Says Cyndie Martin, Melmark Director of Corporate and Community Affairs.
MELMARK Adult Day Services Assist Ashton TweedBerwyn, PA, May 2007 – Ashton Tweed, an executive recruiting and consulting firm based in Wayne learned about Melmark and its wide range of services when its business partners participated in the 2006 Hubert J.P. Schoemaker Inaugural Golf Classic, a fund raising event for Melmark. So when they needed assistance in preparing for the BIO 2007 International Convention, they contacted Melmark to seek the assistance of the Adult Day Program in the gathering and collating of 800 marketing folders. Upon completion of the project, Ashton Tweed partners James Laird, Jim Rudman and Jordan Warshafsky joined Joanne Gillis-Donovan, Ph.D., Melmark President and CEO, for a tour of the campus. "It is impressive to see the range of programs Melmark offers to their clients and to the community”, said Jim Rudman, adding, “The spirit of enthusiasm we witnessed and the commitment of the staff are touching. This was a beneficial experience to both organizations." In appreciation, Ashton Tweed made a generous donation to Melmark. “We are grateful to Ashton Tweed for entrusting our Adult Day Program with this project. Our adults with disabilities are trained to handle complex fulfillment projects and they take great pride in perfecting skills that give them an active role in the community and may eventually become a personal source of income,” said Dr. Gillis-Donovan. Melmark is a not-for-profit provider of programs and services for children and adults with developmental disabilities, autism, acquired brain injury, and other neurological and genetic disorders.
Melmark Delegation Attends Autism Legislation Ceremony Melmark’s residents, staff, and leadership recently traveled to Harrisburg to join Speaker of the House Dennis O’Brien as he introduced House Bill 1150 which will require health insurance companies to provide fair and equitable treatment coverage for people with autism. As part of this legislative event, Speaker O’Brien also signed House Resolution 2, which recognized April as being Autism Awareness Month. The Center for Disease Control now estimates that 1 in 150 children in America has an autism spectrum disorder. Presently in Pennsylvania, many health insurance companies do not extend coverage for autism-related treatments. Under Speaker O’Brien’s proposed legislation, private health insurance companies would be required to provide up to $3,000 per month in coverage for autism-related services. “It’s a new day for autism in Pennsylvania,” O’Brien said. “For many years, people with this disease felt they must suffer in silence. That’s no longer true. Because of the work of many people and some terrific organizations, we’ve reached a tipping point where America recognizes that autism is not going away and it’s not staying silent.” Speaker O’Brien is joined by Senator Jane Orie ( 40 th District-R) who is sponsoring a similar bill in the Senate. Joanne Gillis-Donovan, President and CEO of Melmark, strongly supports Speaker O’Brien’s initiative. “Everyday we work with families deeply impacted by the effects of autism upon their loved ones and other family members. This legislation will support families and allow providers to treat and address this condition earlier and more effectively. With such help we can make significant long-term improvement in the lives of those affected by autism.” Melmark is a Berwyn-based, not-for-profit provider of programs and services for children and adults with a developmental disability, acquired brain injury, and other neurological and genetic disorders. Dr. Donovan noted that approximately 30 percent of those children and adults served by Melmark have been diagnosed with autism. Thirty-five Melmark representatives were among the crowd of over 200 supporters of this bill, that also included Bob and Suzanne Wright, co-founders of the national advocacy group Autism Speaks; Jon Shestack, founder of Cure Autism Now; Public Welfare Secretary Estelle Richman; and Joe Pantoliano, actor and autism advocate http://www.autismspeaks.org/inthenews/index.php
MELMARK RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO WORK IN PENNSYLVANIA This month, Melmark was recognized and honored at an Award Ceremony at the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center. The recognition comes as the outcome of a statewide survey and awards program designed to identify, recognize and honor the best places of employment in Pennsylvania, thus benefiting the state’s economy, its workforce and businesses. This program is a public/private partnership of Team Pennsylvania Foundation, the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, and the Central Penn Business Journal. “The employees of Melmark strive to develop the intellectual, emotional, social and physical aspects of each individual entrusted in their care. They do so with dedication, professionalism and dignity. The survey showed that they enjoy their work, love the family-like feeling and appreciate the education, training and diverse benefits they receive. I am proud to accept this award on behalf of our mission driven staff,” said Melmark President and CEO Dr. Joanne Gillis-Donovan. In a two-part process, each company’s workplace policies, practices and philosophy were rated. A good standing with Commonwealth agencies under the Governor’s jurisdiction was also a requirement. The Human resources part invited the employees to submit their evaluation of the company. Nearly 20,000 Pennsylvania employees filled the survey that evaluated medium-sized companies (25-250 employees) and large-sized companies (over 250 employees) in the profit and nonprofit sectors. Nearly 600 Melmark employees provide residential, educational, vocational and therapeutic services for adults and children with developmental disabilities and other neurological and genetic disorders, acquired brain injuries and Autism spectrum disorder. It must be noted that Melmark also trains special needs adults to help them secure gainful employment in the region.
MELMARK PARTICIPATES IN CHAMBER DAY ON CAPITOL HILL May 22, 2007 - Nearly 40 local chambers of commerce were in Harrisburg for the third annual Chamber Day on Capitol Hill, hosted by the PA Chamber and Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce Executives. Nicole F. Chabat, Director of Public Relations and a member of the Main Line Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee/Health Task Force represented Melmark. The event began with a breakfast reception and meeting hosted by a delegation of the Democratic Caucus chaired by Representative Mike Gerber. Secretary Tom Wolf also participated in the discussion and welcomed questions from the group that included members from the Pa Chamber of Commerce, the Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, the Allegheny County Chamber of Commerce and the Main Line Chamber of Commerce. As Harrisburg prepares to vote on the Governor’s Budget, key issues including health care, business tax structure, environmental and energy regulations, mass transportation and infrastructure, and public education were addressed. Funding mental retardation/autism programs was discussed briefly with selected representatives who were invited to visit Melmark. Senator Dinniman, Representative Gerber and Representative Leach promptly accepted the invitation to meet with the Melmark Leadership during a campus tour in the near future. During an afternoon news conference, PA Chamber and local chamber executives offered their perspective on the upcoming budget process, the importance of Chamber Day, and the role of local chambers in economic development. Speakers included:
Two key afternoon programs included the Health Care Forum chaired by Senator Ted Erickson and the Transportation Forum lead by Craig Shuey, Executive Director of the Senate Transportation Committee. Concurrently, Dr. Gillis-Donovan attended the PAR Board of Directors meeting in Harrisburg. PAR has been urging its members to support the funding of House Bill 1286, an action that would ensure funding for mental retardation, early intervention and autism services. Earlier this month, Dr. Gillis-Donovan also led a delegation of Melmark’s residents, staff, and leadership to Harrisburg to join Speaker of the House Dennis O’Brien as he signed House Bill 1150 that requires health insurance companies to provide fair and equitable treatment coverage for people with autism.
Melmark Legislative Outreach Program Welcomes Congressman SestakThis month, Dr. Joanne Gillis-Donovan welcomedCongressman Joe Sestak on his first visit of Melmark. “The diverse needs of Pennsylvanians with disabilities cannot be met without the understanding and support of our legislature. We are grateful for your visit and pleased to have this opportunity to brief you on the key issues facing children and adults with disabilities, here at Melmark, and throughout our state,” said Dr. Gillis-Donovan. Dr. Gillis-Donovan, an avid advocate on behalf of individuals with disabilities and several members of her executive staff opened the dialog focusing on current legislatives issues impacting the health care providers and the welfare of their clients. Insurance coverage for autism, access to care and adequate reimbursement were at the forefront of the discussion. “We all have ideas on ways we can improve access and the quality of healthcare. By working together, we can come up with solutions that will eventually ensure everyone has access to proper medical care,” said Congressman Sestak, adding, “By meeting with leaders in the health care industry like Melmark, we can find solutions and opportunities that work.” In an effort to foster better understanding and heighten awareness about the needs of Pennsylvanians with disabilities, Melmark has invited Pennsylvania Representatives, Congressmen and Senators to visit the Berwyn campus and meet the children and adults whose care is entrusted to Melmark.
Melmark Representative Attends the French-American Chamber of Commerce 17th Annual "Fete du Printemps" The French-American Chamber of Commerce 17th Annual Fete du Printemps honored Jean-Francois Phelizon, President and CEO of Saint-Gobain Corporation, the global manufacturer of high-technology and associated services. Saint-Gobain was created in 1665 and built the magnificent Hall of Mirrors at the chateau of Versailles. It now operates 1000 companies in 50 countries, and among them, the US based Certainteed. As a member of the French-American Chamber of Commerce, Melmark was included in the prestigious gathering. Since it joined the French-American Chamber of Commerce, Melmark has benefited from the philanthropic generosity of executives from member companies such as Rohm and Haas, PricewaterhouseCoopers and Miel.
MISS AMERICA CONTESTANTS MAKE A SPLASH AT MELMARK This month, and for seventh year in a row, Melmark welcomed four 2007 Miss America Pageant contestants. Ongoing work in the new multi-purpose center forced Cyndie Martin to search for a new venue and to “re-think” the format of the popular visit. A pool party and luncheon seemed ideal under the circumstances! So, under the leadership of former Miss Maine, Valerie Crooker Clemens, the delegates of the Miss America Pageant gladly accepted the invitation and joined the adult residents of Melmark for good food and some aquatic fun. “Children of all ages love to spend a summer day at the pool. The talented young women of the Miss America Pageant volunteered their time to bring fun and great companionship to the young adults who attend Melmark. They love it and it was great fun,” says Cyndie Martin, Melmark Director of Corporate and Community Affairs. Valerie C. Clemens introduced Miss Maine, Tara Allain, Miss Pennsylvania, Rachel Marie Brooks, Miss Rhode Island Ashley Bickford and Miss Virgin Islands, Janeisha John as they stepped out of the pool cabana, clad in their glamorous swimsuit and tiaras. Soon sashes and crown were put away as everyone jumped in the refreshing water and enjoyed the many aquatic games and swim races. Then, contestants and residents shared a delicious al fresco meal poolside. The Melmark residents delighted in the photo opportunities and autograph session. Melmark honors the invaluable contribution of community support as exemplified by the Miss America Pageant, one of the nation's leading achievement programs and the world's largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women. Rumor has it that the 2007 luncheon and pool party with the lovely Miss America contestants was so successful that it may become an annual summer event…stay tuned.
MELMARK PSYCHOLOGIST TO SPEAK AT THE 10TH ANNUAL CONNECTIONS CONFERENCE ON THE MAIN LINE Berwyn, Pennsylvania, March 30, 2007 - Stephen C. Luce, Ph.D., Melmark Vice President for Clinical Programming, Training and Research will speak on “Shaping Social Skills in Youth With Problem Behaviors” on Saturday, March 31 at the Tenth Annual Collage Connections Conference. The one-day program will take place at Messiah Church, 100 Media Road in Newtown Square. Dr. Luce is a Clinical Professor of Psychology at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and a practicing licensed psychologist at Melmark. Nancy Kauffman, Director of the Collage Program, looks forward to Dr. Luce’s participation in the 2007 Connections Conference of Occupational Therapy because “Everyone is interested in research and theory,” she says. “The audience especially loves to listen to Dr. Luce’s treatment techniques and his practical suggestions.” (Further information about Collage may be obtained at 610 356 7355.) “For the past nine year, health professionals and parents have dialogued about research findings, strategic interventions and effective techniques in the field of behavior management. I am particularly pleased to participate in this 10 th conference because its format imparts skills development for professionals, care givers and parents,” says Dr. Luce. Dr. Luce is the author of many articles and publications about the effective support of children with behavior disorders and about autism spectrum disorders. A complete list of his work can be obtained at www.melmark.org
2007 SPRING FESTIVAL AND ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION During this year’s annual Spring Festival, over 600 members of the Melmark community honored Joanne Gillis-Donovan, Ph.D., in recognition of her tenth anniversary as President and CEO of Melmark. The celebration opened with the dedication of the renovated multi-purpose center followed by a performance of the Wizard of Oz by the Melmark Players in front of an audience composed of students and adults served at Melmark, their staff, family members, friends and community leaders. In his welcoming remarks, H. Robert Marcus, Chairman of the Board of Melmark said “Over the last ten years, Dr. Gillis-Donovan has led Melmark through remarkable program growth, thanks to her unwavering commitment to children and adults with disabilities. One could not find a stronger and more effective advocate. Dr. Gillis-Donovan brought about the renaissance of Melmark as she raised funds to add programs, increased staff training, renovated our facilities, and enhanced the quality of life at Melmark. This successful executive even put Melmark on the list of best places to work in PA.” “The secret to my success is simple: I know how to pick people smarter than me,” said Dr. Gillis-Donovan, as she thanked Dr. George P. Linke, Jr., Vice President for Operations, Melmark PA, Peter J. Troy, Executive Vice President, Melmark, PA and Rita Gardner, Executive Director, Melmark New England. The CEO added, “Melmark is a family whose 900 staff members tend to the needs of 278 children and adults with disabilities, here in Berwyn, as well as in Andover, Massachusetts. We have retained the values and held on to the mission set forth by The Krentel family forty years ago. If real success is finding your lifework in the work that you love, then indeed my last ten years have been most successful.” Dr Gillis-Donovan was then presented with gifts and artwork created for her by students and residents of Melmark. A mariachi group serenaded her as a huge and colorful anniversary cake was wheeled to center stage.
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