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Please Join MCAR in Welcoming the Newest Members to Our Team!
September 2025
Alaina Batt – AWC
Marzhanae Blackwell – AWC
Gregory Clark – RPW
James Harrison – RPW
Rahel Hartmen – AWC
Hunter Rhamy – AWC
Angela Shamblin – HR Specialist
Rosetta Wildr – Hab Aide
Colleen Wilson – AWC
October 2025
Mildred Alford – Hab Aide
Nayla Austin-Dragicevic – AWC
Vera Barnes – Budget Analyst
Walter Fetty – AWC
Donna Fetty – AWC
Kamilah McCall- RPW
Kiersten Loughry – CE
Ava Platt – Hab Aide
November 2025
Chad Basham – AWC
Anna Frazee – AWC
Sidney Hill – RPW
Gary Hopson – RPW
Allen Mychael Jackson – RPW
Sa’Mya Moore – RPW
Ceauna Moreland – RPW
Debra Sutton- AWC
Thank you all for joining the team!
Brian Engelmore, Human Resource Director
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A Month of Diverse Traditions
As December unfolds, it brings a rich tapestry of cultural celebrations and observances from around the world. From the twinkling lights of Hanukkah and the joyous anticipation of Christmas to the reflective spirit of Kwanzaa and secular solstice celebrations, this month is a powerful reminder of our diverse global community. By recognizing and learning about these varied traditions, we not only enrich our understanding but also foster a greater sense of connection and unity within our own community. Let us embrace this season by celebrating togetherness, promoting respect, and valuing the multitude of customs that define the shared human experience.
Doug Blazer, Compliance Specialist
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Safe and Festive Holiday Decorating at MCAR Group Homes
The holiday season brings cheer, and MCAR staff are committed to making our group homes festive while prioritizing the safety of all residents. When decorating, staff pay close attention to potential hazards, beginning with the installation of Christmas lights and other decorations. All items must be in good repair, and care is taken to ensure that wires, cords, and decorations do not create a tripping hazard in common areas or hallways. The use of artificial Christmas trees is strongly encouraged to mitigate fire hazards associated with real trees. Staff will ensure these trees are properly assembled and placed away from heat sources to maintain a secure and enjoyable environment throughout the holidays.
This commitment to safety extends beyond indoor decorations to the exterior of the group home, particularly during winter weather. Outside snow maintenance is a critical task addressed promptly by MCAR staff. Walkways, ramps, and entrances are kept clear of snow and ice to prevent slips and falls. This diligence ensures that residents, staff, and visitors can move safely in and out of the building. By carefully managing both interior and exterior holiday risks, MCAR staff ensure the group home remains a warm, welcoming, and, most importantly, safe place for everyone to celebrate the holidays.
Doug Blazer, Compliance Specialist
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In Home and Community Supports
Dianne McConnell has always enjoyed crafting, her MCAR IH&CS Staff suggested she enter the Jamestown Community Fair Craft Show. Dianne was delighted and with the help of her MCAR IH&CS Staff entered, Dianne won 4 blue ribbons and 1 red ribbon for her entries.
Staff encourages community activities and maintains health and safety. Congratulations Dianne for your ribbon wins!
Angela McMath- Administrator of Hab Aide
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MCAR Residential
October Highlights
As autumn settled in, the individuals supported by MCAR Residential enjoyed a month filled with seasonal activities, community engagement, and memorable experiences.
One of the first adventures of the month was a trip to Ghost Lake, where participants explored spooky trails, haunted attractions, and the excitement of a Halloween-inspired atmosphere. Laughter, thrills, and teamwork were on full display as everyone braved the frightful fun together.
The Halloween spirit continued with a visit to Kennywood Fright Nights. Those attending enjoyed Halloween-themed rides, special shows, and some truly unforgettable haunted house experiences. For many, this was a highlight of the season and a chance to make lasting memories with peers and staff.
In addition to the festivities, several individuals attended cooking classes at Thyme in Your Kitchen. Participants worked hands-on to prepare a variety of dishes while learning new skills, building confidence, and taking pride in their creations. These classes continue to support independence, creativity, and healthy living in a fun and interactive setting.
The month concluded with the annual MCAR Residential Halloween Party, where individuals dressed up in costumes, enjoyed music, games, refreshments, and celebrated together as a community. The energy and enthusiasm made the event a wonderful success and a reflection of the supportive and social environment MCAR continues to foster.
October was a month full of laughter, learning, engagement, and friendship. We look forward to many more enriching experiences and opportunities for growth in the months ahead.
Matt Dietrich - Residential Director
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Community Employment
MCAR would like to congratulate Burdell Rust on his new job opportunity at Pete’s Berry Farm. Burdell has a lot of experience with farming as he grew up working on his father’s farm. With the assistance of a job coach, Burdell is able to accomplish all the tasks that the farm needs completed. MCAR would also like to thank Pete Misovich and Paul Koci for giving Burdell the opportunity. They have some great ideas with community involvement, and we are pleased to be part of it. Congratulations Burdell!
Ryan Maurice - Administrator of CE/AWC
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CPS Day Program
This past month, our individuals were thrilled to be invited to the Mercer County BHC Annual Fall Festival at Iron Mills Farmstead. We were fortunate to have full participation from our Day Program, and it truly was a day to remember. The festival overflowed with seasonal excitement—delicious food, lively music, and engaging games filled the afternoon with joy and laughter. One of the most heartwarming moments was seeing familiar faces across the farm, reconnecting with peers and friends we had not seen in some time. This wonderful event not only brought people together but also reminded us of the importance of community, friendship, and celebration as we welcomed the fall season. The atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and filled with togetherness—a true reflection of the harvest season and all it represents.
We are also excited to share that renovations are officially underway at our MCAR Older Adult Day Center! This project has been long-anticipated, and we are eager to see the positive impact it will bring to our program and participants. Over the past several weeks, our seniors have been actively preparing for the renovation by packing items for storage, sorting through belongings, and making thoughtful decisions about what to keep. They have now temporarily relocated across the hall for the next 4–6 months while renovations are completed. Thanks to their hard work and positive outlook, they are already comfortably settled into their temporary space. Together, they have created a cozy and welcoming environment—a true home away from home. We are extremely proud of how our participants have embraced this transition with patience, flexibility, and teamwork.
On October 30th, we celebrated our Annual Halloween Party—and it was truly a spectacular event! The afternoon was alive with festive energy as participants and staff arrived dressed in their most creative, spooky, and imaginative costumes. Our DJ kept the celebration going with upbeat music, leading to plenty of dancing, laughter, and memorable moments shared among friends.
One of the highlights of the day was our Costume Contest, which brought out the very best in Halloween spirit. After much excitement and applause, we crowned our winners:
1st Place – Tony F.,
2nd Place – Nate T., and
3rd Place – Brian K.
Each winner impressed the judges with their creativity and enthusiasm. The friendly competition added an extra layer of fun to an already joyful afternoon. We are so proud of everyone who participated and helped make this year’s Halloween celebration such a success!
We also want to highlight the incredible volunteer work completed by MCAR staff member Mona and the individuals she supports at the Root House. They spent the past several months packing, wrapping, and loading trucks full of donated items headed to Texas and the Navajo Nation. Becky Vogan—the remarkable woman who oversees all things Root House—recently contacted Mona to share that she had arrived safely and that every donated item made it to its destination. Becky even passed the phone to a woman receiving some of the items Mona and the individuals carefully sorted and packaged. Hearing her joy and heartfelt appreciation was truly touching; she expressed how meaningful it was to receive items she had never had before. While our individuals and staff volunteer throughout the local community, this project is one of the largest and wide-reaching efforts they participate in—and it continues to be exceptionally rewarding for everyone involved.
On, November 13th, MCAR staff member Shannon, along with individuals Jay, Javi, and Neil, braved the chilly but sunny weather to volunteer their time at one of their favorite places — Buhl Park!
It’s that special time of year again when the park begins transforming into a winter wonderland, filled with beautifully displayed Christmas decorations and lights. Our crew was delighted to lend a hand by fluffing the green garland that adorns the outside of the Casino.
We’re so excited to see the park’s festive display come to life and are waiting patiently for the grand reveal of all the decorations and lights!
As we move through the season of gratitude, the MCAR Day Program gathered together to enjoy a Thanksgiving Feast prepared by one of our very own direct care workers, Chef Saint Taylor—known to many as Jessie Taylor. He prepared a beautiful and delicious spread that brought everyone together to share food, memories, and reflections of thankfulness.
Looking ahead, we are excited for December 9th, when we will travel together to the Greater Cleveland Aquarium to explore and enjoy the wonders of life under the water!
Kamala Black-Sham - CPS Director
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The Powerful Effects of Gratitude on Mental Health
With the holiday season in full swing, the Clinical Department wanted to share some information about the effects of GRATITUDE on our mental health. What is Gratitude?
Gratitude—simply taking time to notice the good things in your life—has a surprisingly big impact on mental health. Even small moments of appreciation can shift your mindset and help you feel more grounded.
One major benefit of gratitude is that it helps balance our natural tendency to focus on stress or problems. Our brains are wired to pay more attention to the negative, but gratitude gently pulls our attention toward what’s going well. Over time, this can reduce worry, ease symptoms of anxiety or depression, and create a more positive outlook.
Practicing gratitude also boosts feel-good brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, which support happiness and emotional stability. People who regularly write down or think about what they’re grateful for often report feeling calmer, more content, and more hopeful.
Gratitude strengthens relationships, too. When you express appreciation to others, whether through a quick thank-you text or a kind word—it deepens connection and makes both people feel valued. Strong relationships are a key part of good mental health.
There are physical benefits as well. Studies show that gratitude can improve sleep, lower stress levels, and help the body recover from daily tension. When your body feels better, your mind often follows.
Gratitude doesn’t erase challenges, but it does help you face them with more resilience. By regularly noticing the good, you build a mental buffer that makes tough times a little easier to handle.
The best part? Gratitude is simple, free, and takes only a few minutes a day. A short list, a quiet moment of reflection, or a heartfelt thank-you can make a meaningful difference in your mental well-being.
Thank you all for everything you do for the individuals in our care! Hope your holidays are filled with GRATITUDE!
Allysen Byers - Clinical Director
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Annual Christmas Luncheon
Our annual Christmas Luncheon was held on Monday December 1st at the Avalon at Buhl. It was a great event. Individuals dressed in their best Christmas attire and ate and danced with their peers. There was even a surprise visit from Santa himself!
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