Merakey Allegheny Valley School

Merakey Allegheny Valley School, or Merakey AVS, is a leading provider of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). With a mission to help those entrusted to their care live with dignity and purpose, Merakey AVS strives to enhance their quality of life and provide opportunities for growth and independence.

The organization offers a full range of services, supports, and living arrangements for over 700 adults with varying levels of intellectual and developmental disabilities. Many of the individuals Merakey AVS supports have severe or profound IDD, multiple physical disabilities, and extensive medical complications. Merakey AVS's specialized programs, including memory care, communication technology, sensory, and technology homes, are tailored to meet the unique needs of the people they serve.

Merakey AVS's person-centered approach aims to achieve the highest level of independence for each individual, while enhancing their quality of life. Services provided range from physical, occupational, and communication therapies to vocational training and employment support. Therapeutic activities and developmental training focus on sensory, environmental, and pre-vocational skill development.

Merakey AVS is committed to providing quality programs and facilities that allow individuals with IDD to live with purpose and dignity. Their guiding principles include a commitment to exceptional care, a vision to be a nationally recognized provider of the highest quality health and human services, and core values such as compassion, diversity, integrity, safety, trust, and quality. The organization also prioritizes the safety and well-being of those in their care, partnering with Praesidium for abuse risk management and accreditation.

Merakey AVS continues to expand access to technology, ensuring individuals can engage meaningfully with their families, friends, and the community while preserving health and safety. They have increased access to telehealth, which helps provide exceptional care and access to medical providers. Additionally, they have partnered with various organizations to bring best practices in caring for adults with IDD at risk of or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia.

Merakey AVS's employees are dedicated to maintaining their passion and energy in the workplace. They have provided off-site workshops, focusing on ways to stay engaged and learn new strategies to remain motivated. Merakey AVS recognizes the importance of creating a more inclusive culture in human services and has implemented initiatives to foster trust, compassion, and understanding among their team.