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Melmark Legislative Outreach Welcomes PA Representative Barbara McIlvaine Smith
Noted Autism Expert Leads Conference at Melmark
Berwyn, August 1, 2008 - On Thursday, July 31, Melmark hosted Journey Into Adulthood, a one-day conference addressing transitional issues facing families of children with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities.
The keynote speaker was renowned autism expert Peter F. Gerhardt, EdD, the president and Chair of the Scientific Council Organization for Autism Research. Dr. Gerhardt’s private practice is based in Baltimore, MD. He has authored articles and publications on the needs of adults with autism spectrum disorder, the school-to-work-transition and analysis, and intervention of problematic behavior. He serves on numerous professional advisory boards, including the Autism Society of America, MAAP Services, NJ COSAC and ASPEN.
Journey Into Adulthood was designed to help families and caregivers acquire effective planning tools and create appropriate transition plans. To assist in the process, Dr Gerhardt lead a panel discussion with Dennis McAndrews, a Berwyn-based special needs attorney and expert in disability law; Dr. Stephen Luce, Melmark Vice President for Clinical Training and Research; Dr. Anthony Rostain, Director of Social Disorder Program at the University of Pennsylvania; Nick Lian, Financial Advisor for Merrill Lynch; Abby McGillivray, Melmark Director of Social Services; and Mary Mauer, a pediatric nurse and parent of a disabled child.
Exhibitors at the all day resource fair included COSAC, Autism Speaks, Variety Children’s Charity and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Melmark Joins the Miracle League
Melmark was founded in 1966, dedicated to providing children with special needs an opportunity to develop to their full potentials. The Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley was founded in 2006, dedicated to providing children with special needs an opportunity to play baseball. Now, you can see why Melmark and the Miracle League were made for each other!
Two years ago, The Miracle League of Lehigh Valley dedicated Fowler Field, a state-of-the-art baseball field located in Schnecksville, Lehigh County. It was built with corporate and private donations and occupies approximately 5 acres of land filled with dreams and laughter. Because “every child deserves a chance to play baseball,” special needs players are welcomed on 25 Miracle League Sites located in 15 states.
Each weekend, up to ten Melmark residents and their staff drive to this special place where wheelchairs are always welcome. To protect the players, the field is composed of Mondo Super X Performance turf, the type of rubber surface used for track events at the Olympic games.
One could say that The Miracle League and Melmark share a vision when it comes to children with disabilities. Today, with a combined staff of 653 people, Melmark serves 278 children and adults with a wide range of developmental disabilities in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts. Melmark strives to provide its students and residents with the means to achieve their maximum potential. Sports like baseball, horse riding and swimming are among the most effective resources.
Thanks to the generosity and foresight of many Pennsylvania dream-makers, Melmark’s young residents are now able to play on the field of dreams located in the beautiful Lehigh Valley. The Melmark players adopted the name “Tampa Bay Devil Rays” and are proud of their new uniforms. They may often cheer for the Phillies or the Red Sox, but they are die-hard Miracle League Fans.
 The Melmark Tampa Bay Devil Rays: L to R: Mathew P., Marie SL, Ibrahim Yillah, Crystal A. and Kathleen Albertson.
Melmark Joybells Glorious Concerts in Ocean City
Berwyn, PA, June 2008 – At the invitation of the Ocean City Tabernacle, the Melmark Joybells boarded their special buss and traveled to south Jersey to perform two concerts on Sunday, June 1.
Despite some technical difficulties with their bus, the Joybells and their staff managed to deliver suitcases and costumes to the Ocean City hosting families who had volunteered board and rooms for each member of the group.
“It is an honor for the Joybells to perform for the Ocean City Tabernacle. The kindness and generosity of the congregation is overwhelming,” says Sue Graves, Director of the Melmark Joybells since 1991. “Each member of the choir has overcome disabilities to meet the challenges of the Melmark Music Enrichment program. They performed flawlessly and I am proud of their accomplishments,” she adds.
The Melmark Joybells do not read music, and thus are both taught and conducted by hand signs. Their gleaming instruments are 5-octave Schulmerich handbells and silver melody bells, Suzuki tone chimes, and percussion. They are consummate recitalists who have performed on television, for Pennsylvania Governors’ Inaugurations, the Brass Ensemble of the Philadelphia Orchestra, and at the White House.
A generous host gave the Joybells tickets for the Amusement Piers and they enjoyed the post concerts relaxation. “The look of pure joy on their faces and the shrieks of laughter as they rode the rides was worth all the traveling difficulties we had endured,” remarks Ms. Graves.
Back home at Melmark, on the beautiful 80-acre Berwyn campus, they told their friends of the exciting trip and of the wonderful people from the Tabernacle in Ocean City, New Jersey.
Melmark Adults Participate in Rejoicing Spirits Video Taping
On Sunday, June 8, 2008, twelve Melmark adult residents participated in the video taping of a documentary film about Rejoicing Spirit, a groundbreaking, inclusive ministry which reaches out to enrich the spiritual lives of people with developmental disabilities, their families, friends and other supportive community members.
Rejoicing Spirits worship services typically include lots of music and joyous singing, along with brief, meaningful messages. Melmark participants have made many friends and found great pleasure in performing in an joyful environment in which they often meet other abled and disabled community members.
Through Rejoicing Spirits Ministry, congregations become aware, educated and accepting of individuals with developmental disabilities. Attitudinal barriers are removed as participants are encourage focus on each other’s gifts and talents. The service aims at overcoming prejudice and creating unity.
The taped section will be included in a new DVD produced by Ilana Trachtman. Trachtman was the producer/director of “Praying for Lior”, a documentary about a young man with Down Syndrome who is preparing for his Bar Mitzvah. The added footage aims at showing audiences the importance of inclusion of special needs individuals.
Pomp and Circumstance: The 2008 Melmark Graduation
Under an encompassing white tent, parents, siblings, friends and staff proudly saluted five students who took part in Melmark’s 2008 Commencement Exercises. The ceremony was held in Center Circle on Melmark’s Berwyn campus.
Dr. Gillis-Donovan praised the five students whose courage and determination had helped them overcome incredible challenges. “We witness acts of heroism, audacity and sheer bravery. Whether someone takes their first few steps, or learns a new word, a broad smile at the end of a hard day of studying and therapy tells us all how fortunate we are to be able to render such a service. In watching our students, we find inspiration,” she said in her opening remarks.
Teaching staff and therapists offered personal and amusing anecdotes about their graduating students. Each individual was commanded as a survivor, a determined hard worker, a mischievous youth whose struggles never seemed to lead to discouragement. Students Nathan, Caroline and Tom provided a musical interlude that demonstrated the unique talents of each student.
Melmark Dedicates the Ronald McDonald Fitness Room
Berwyn, June 14, 2008 – Thanks to a generous grant from Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philadelphia Region, Inc., Melmark has opened a new fitness room in its renovated Center for Wellness and Learning. On June 14, 2008, the children and adults served by Melmark, their families, friends and staff members welcomed officials from Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philadelphia Region, Inc. to a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Melmark’s Berwyn campus.
“On behalf of the Melmark community, I thank Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philadelphia Region, Inc. for supporting a program that will directly improve the health and well being of those we serve,” said Joanne Gillis-Donovan, PhD, President and CEO of Melmark. “ We are also grateful to McDonald’s Jack Niggeman and the Newtown Square McDonald’s. Their partnership has been invaluable in the development of our vocational programs. These programs allow our young adults to become contributing members of the community.”
The dedication took place during the Melmark Spring Festival, a day of celebration when Melmark welcomes families, friends and local community members to its campus. In addition to the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the day included a performance of My Fair Lady by the Melmark Players; a Mexican Fiesta with an authentic Mariachi band and delicious Mexican food; and family entertainment that included horse-drawn carriage rides, a Moon Bounce and the Big Kahuna water slide.
Check Presentation: (L to R)
Gene Kimble, Director of Operations, Delmac Management Corporation, Marlene Weinberg, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philadelphia Region, Inc., Joanne Gillis-Donovan, PhD, President and CEO, Melmark 
Standing by the plaque (L to R)
Ellen Donohoe, Vice President for Advancement, Melmark; Joanne Gillis-Donovan, PhD, President and CEO, Melmark; Marlene Weinberg; Gene Kimble.
Main Line Life Attends
Melmark Gala 2008
Joan Bang tells all in her
Partyculars, April 9th Issue
Melmark Legislative Outreach Welcomes Representative Daylin Leach
Today, Dr. Joanne Gillis-Donovan welcomedRepresentative Daylin Leach 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 always welcome members of the House and Senate who seek to learn more about people with special needs and service providers like us. My staff and I are 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, noted that she was particularly thankful for Representative Leach’s support of House Bill 1150 (autism services coverage), introduced by Dennis O’Brien, Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and of House Bill 2241(Cost of Living Adjustment) introduced by Representative Barbara McIlvaine Smith of Chester County.
“ I am moved by the obvious commitment of the Melmark staff and I am grateful for the opportunity to gain a more holistic understanding of the work that takes place on this campus.” Said Representative Leach. Discussions focused on current legislatives issues impacting the health care providers and the welfare of their clients. A comprehensive tour of the 80-acre campus followed the meeting.
 (left to right)
Mary Pat Tomei, Legislative Aide, Chris Tabakin, Melmark Director of Quality Assurance, Dr. George P. Linke, Jr., Melmark Executive Vice President and COO, Representative Daylin Leach, Dr. Joanne Gillis-Donovan, Melmark President and CEO, Dr. Stephen C. Luce, Melmark Vice President of Clinical Programming, Training and Research
Melmark and Best Buddies
Did you know that Melmark students danced to “Greased Lighting” at the 13 th annual Best Buddies Talent Show in the Hobson C. Wagner Memorial Auditorium this month?
The show brought together over 175 Best Buddies from area schools that included Melmark, Owen J. Roberts, Octorara, West Chester East, Haverford and Unionville.
Founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Best Buddies is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bettering the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for on-on-one friendships and integrated employment.
The Melmark were proud to wear the “Have Kerrage” T-shirts in honor of Conestoga senior Ryan Kerr who recently died of cancer.
Autism Month: Melmark Partners With Barnes and Noble to reach community
At the invitation of Chris Broome, Community Relations Manager for Barnes and Noble, the booksellers in Plymouth Meeting, Melmark staged an art exhibit and a public education lecture designed to heighten community awareness about autism.
Entitled: “Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder”, the 90 minute-presentation was led by Jennifer Copeland, MS, BCBA, Assistant Director of Pediatric Clinical Programs, Melmark. The interactive program provided comprehensive information about the Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), such as Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, Rett’s Disorder and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder and it encouraged questions and comments from an audience eager to gain better understanding and guidance.
“The impact of PDD is staggering. To the social/emotional toll is added the financial burden of autism. Currently, the lifetime cost of caring for a child with autism ranges from $3.5 million to $5 million,” said Ms. Copeland, citing statistics from the Autism Society of America.
Consequently, Melmark supports Pennsylvania House Bill 1150, legislation introduced by Dennis O’Brien, Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, that requires health insurance companies to provide fair and equitable treatment coverage for people with autism.
To inquire about Melmark free lectures and presentations about autism, contact program coordinator Michael Donovan at michaeldonovan@melmark.org. 
High Tea At Melmark
The Meadows at Melmark is an innovative, work-centered program for adults with mild-to-moderate disabilities. To usher in the fall season, a small group of dedicated Melmark volunteers organized a proper high tea for the Meadows residents.
Proper etiquette and the discovery of traditional tea delicacies were presented to a group of young adults who gathered in the Tearoom at the Meadows. “Culture and refinement are taught at Melmark because they are an integral part of the full range an social and recreational activities offered at The Meadows, “ said Louise Elkins, a seasoned Melmark volunteer and hostess of the high tea.
Fine linens dressed the tables and a wide variety of home made tea sandwiches, jams and lemon curd awaited an enthusiastic group of 24 residents. Many in attendance had never tasted cucumber sandwiches or fresh-out-of-the-oven blueberry, cranberry and cinnamon scones with clotted cream.
Chamber music was provided Nancy Kauffman and two of her friends who are members of the Delaware County Symphony Orchestra. The trio who performed on flute, violin and cello played a light selection of classical music and popular melodies. Guests were spellbound and savored the afternoon. “Our staff and volunteers go the extra mile to insure that our students and residents enjoy a full life. This experience exemplifies the values and high standards of Melmark.” Said Cyndie Martin, Director of Corporate and Community Affairs at Melmark.
Dr. Stephen C. Luce Honored by Marietta College
Stephen C. Luce, Ph.D., Vice President of Clinical Programming, Training and Research at Melmark just received the 2007 Distinguished Alumnus Award from Marietta College, Marietta, Ohio.
During the Alumni Convocation, Dr. Luce addressed his fellow alumni, faculty, families and students gathered at the McDonough Leadership Center Auditorium, opening his remarks with heartfelt thanks. “ I am grateful for the honor and thrilled to be back on campus for homecoming weekend. Marietta holds a special place in my heart in part because I was fortunate to row for four years under the leadership of Coach Ralph Lindamood and my three years in the varsity squad were memorable.” He said. Dr. Luce now resides in Berwyn and is a member of Fairmount Rowing Association in Philadelphia.
A highly respected psychologist and leading behavior scientist, Dr. Luce attended Marietta College where he received his A.B., Psychology, in 1972. He later received a M.A. in Education from the Division of Exceptional Children at the University of Georgia and a doctorate in Developmental and Child Psychology from the University of Kansas
Dr. Luce has spent much of his career as a teacher and psychologist working with children with developmental disabilities and/or behavior disorders. Prior to joining Melmark, Dr. Luce served as Executive Director of the Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School and Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Chicago and held senior positions at Bancroft NeuroHealth, New Jersey, and The May Institute, Massachusetts. Dr. Luce has expertise in Developmental and Child Psychology, 23 years clinical experience and over 35 publications on behavioral programs for students with developmental disabilities and related staff training. He is a licensed psychologist, and Board Certified Behavior Analyst.
ETHEL SERGEANT CLARK SMITH MEMORIAL FUND AWARDS MELMARK
Melmark welcomed Mrs. William Bricker, a member of the Board of Directors of the Ethel Sergeant Clark Smith Memorial Fund on the occasion of her visit of the renovated multipurpose center. The extensive work on the structure was made possible in part thanks to a $25,000 grant from the Ethel Sergeant Clark Smith Memorial Fund recently received by Melmark.
“This is the second installment of a $50,000 grant awarded for the renovation and expansion of our 35-year old multipurpose center. We are grateful to the Ethel Sergeant Clark Smith Memorial Fund because its support is key to enhancing the lives of our clients. This is where we deliver recreational, therapeutic, cultural and social programs to those we serve and to our immediate community,” said Dr. Francis X. Baird, Director of Foundations Relations at Melmark.
Ethel Sergeant Clark was born into a prominent Philadelphia family in 1885. She married H. Harrison Smith, a Philadelphia attorney. Although the couple never had children, Mrs. Smith displayed a loving interest in children that guided her philanthropic work. After her husband’s death, Mrs. Smith chose to utilize her wealth to benefit Delaware County through charitable grants. The Ethel Sergeant Clark Smith was created in 1977 to enhance the quality of life of Delaware County residents. Wachovia Trust stewards the Fund.
“The multipurpose center houses our Melmark Theatre and vital sports programs. It is the ideal venue for performances by our hand bell choir the Joybells, dances, parent/children events, and a wide variety of socials. This is where each seasonal celebration finds residents, their staff and families sharing terrific food and good cheer. The grant gave the multipurpose center a face lift and so many more usage options.” Said Cyndie Martin, Melmark Director of Corporate and Community Affairs.
COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER SUPPORTS MELMARK
The Melmark Traveling Art Show received a warm welcome at the Newtown Square Library, thanks to Dorothy Elicker, Art Show Coordinator and member of the Friends of Newtown Square Public Library, a very active volunteer group.
Dorothy Elicker arranged for the Melmark Traveling Show kick-off with a grand opening night cocktail party. Many members of the Friends of the Library greeted the Melmark artists, welcomed members of their families and dialogued with the Melmark staff. The congenial gathering lasted late into the evening to the delight of all.
At the close of the 2007 Traveling Art Show schedule, Dorothy Elicker invited Melmark back to the Newtown Square Library to help celebrate the holidays.
A selection of 18 pieces created by the students and residents of Melmark graced the walls of the library.
As a token of Melmark’s gratitude for her leadership and support, Dorothy Elicker was presented with a lovely needlepoint cushion created by Meadows Guilders.
“How delighted I was to receive the gift, ” Dorothy wrote, adding, “ The cushion from the Meadows is on a desk in the front of the library and looks very colorful, filled with good thoughts. Every one at Melmark has enriched my life.”
..and Melmark is richer for Dorothy’s friendship!
Melmark Welcomes Bristol-Myers Squibb Volunteers for a Day Of Caring
Melmark welcomed 20 volunteers from Bristol-Myers Squibb Company for a Day Of Caring, an event sponsored by the pharmaceutical company for Melmark Vocational Program.
The volunteers joined the Melmark children and young adults in activities that included management of the school breakfast cart, planting and landscaping and van detailing. As always, the highly anticipated visit brought much fun and good fellowship.
“Bristol-Myers Squibb is dedicated to being a force for positive change around the world and we see our Melmark visit as an opportunity to give back to our community.” says Charles Roseboro, Bristol-Myers Squibb District Business Manager.
“Melmark opens the eyes of our guests to the world of disabilities. The partnership created between our corporate volunteers and the Melmark staff gives our clients a unique educational and recreational opportunity. Melmark strives to provide the most sophisticated, effective, research-based, educational, vocational, clinical and residential services in an environment of love care and respect. This cooperative program epitomizes our mission.” Said Cyndie Martin, Director of Corporate and Community Affairs.
Melmark Welcomes Back The Amerikids®
Once again, Melmark, welcomed the West Chester based Amerikids ® back on campus for an evening of fun, food and fellowship.
For over a decade, The Amerikids® have visited Melmark, bringing their award-winning fusion of education, drama and infectious fun to the children and adults who thrive at Melmark. Melmark residents and the Amerikids® enjoyed a pizza party in the newly renovated Gymnasium. Then, residents from The Lodge, Tower House and Dixon House hosted a concert.
The programs presented by Amerikids® attempt to enrich the human spirit. They are aimed at entertaining audiences while enlightening kids of all ages and promoting cultural awareness. Parents, siblings and staff members are an integral part of the fun night at Melmark.
“All our children and young adults interact and cement unique friendship. The Amerikids ® share their music, their joy and their enthusiasm with our students and residents while Melmark opens their eyes to the world of disabilities. It is a heartwarming event.” Said Cyndie Martin, Director of Corporate and Community Affairs at Melmark.
Melmark Joybells Perform At Moravian Village
This month,the Melmark Joybells performed in the beautiful Moravian Village of Bethlehem. The highly touted handbell choir was founded at Melmark over thirty years ago.
The Melmark Joybells do not read music, and thus are both taught and conducted by hand signs. Their gleaming instruments are 5-octave Schulmerich handbells and silver melody bells, Suzuki tone chimes, and percussion. Their varied repertoire includes sacred and secular music. They are consummate recitalists who have performed on television, for Pennsylvania Governors’ Inaugurations, twice with the Brass Ensemble of the Philadelphia Orchestra, and three times at the White House.
“We were honored to be invited by Sue Lorenzetti, Activities Director for Moravian Village, and each one of us is pleased to perform for the first time in such a lovely setting,” said Sue Graves, Director of the Melmark Joybells.
Photo caption: The Joybells on their way to another performance!
Melmark Welcomes Scott Huston,
Executive Director of the Stewart Huston Charitable Trust
Since 1966, the Stewart Huston Charitable Trust has showed interest in Melmark and, through the years, has generously funded a variety of projects. The Stewart Huston Charitable Trust was created in 1989 under the Will of James Stewart Huston (1898-1971), a Coatesville native and former vice president and secretary of the board of Lukens Steel Company .
Scott Huston toured Melmark with Fran Baird, Director of Foundations Relations and discussed the philanthropic goals of the Stewart Huston Charitable Trust and The Huston Foundation.
Melmark Brims With Holiday Cheer
In December, the Melmark Campus sparkles with decorations reflecting the joy of the holiday season. A busy schedule of special events begins on December 2, when volunteers, parents and staff start the celebrations with a colorful Hanukkah party.
On December 6, the Melmark Service League visits to decorate the Center Hall of Melmark’s main house. They trim the ten-foot tree and “deck the halls” with greens, spectacular bows, liights and garlands.
Members of the Lions Club host a Christmas Party for Melmark residents on Sunday, December 9 in the newly remodeled multi-purpose center.
On Thursday, December 13, Santa’s Brigade arrives on the Melmark campus to deliver Santa’s sacks of gifts. Santa’s Brigade was founded i n 1996 by Louisa McDonald. It is a volunteer group whose purpose is to provide Christmas presents for local charitable organizations. Scores of local companies help provide hundreds of gifts to benefit selected regional charitable organizations. Melmark, one of Santa’s Brigade’s recipient organizations, welcomes Santa’s visit with cheers and songs.
On Sunday, December 16, the Melmark Players, a talented group of Melmark adults, perform for the Family Christmas Party. This year the popular and talented Melmark Players will present “Wicked”. Following the performance, a cast party is scheduled at The Meadows, Melmark’s innovative, work-centered program for adults with mild-to-moderate disabilities.
As the holiday excitement grows, on Friday, December 21, the Children’s Theatre performs “Pinocchio” in the Multi-purpose center. The Melmark Annual Art show opens on December 21 with a display of the artwork created by Melmark Children and adults.
On December 25, Santa Claus visits each house to present gifts to the Melmark residents who spend the holidays on campus. Children and adults welcome Santa with cheers and joy before they prepare to enjoy a special Christmas luncheon that awaits them in the festively decorated gym.
Once Again Melmark Is Recognized As One of Pennsylvania's Best Employers.
For the second consecutive year, Melmark won recognition as one of Pennsylvania’s best places where to work. The award ceremony was held at the Hershey Lodge in Harrisburg.
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. On behalf of our staff, I am proud to receive the 2007 award,” said Dr. Joanne Gillis-Donovan, Melmark President and CEO
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