PA Connecting Communities, a 501(c)(3) non-profit is a multi-faceted organization for persons of all ages with mental and physical disabilities. The mission of PA Connecting Communities is to empower persons with special needs with information and opportunities to improve their quality of life by developing friendships, participating in community programs, promoting the arts, and experiencing on the job training programs in an operating business environment created by our organization. Our vision is to create social change by pursuing this mission.
Our core value is we listen to the voices of our participants, families, and caregivers. We recognize the feelings of isolation, loneliness and at times depression that persons with special needs sometimes experience. One of their main concerns is the lack of friendship and social activities. Typically, many persons with special needs experience failure at school, in the work place, or within the community due to inadequate development of social skills needed to be successful. Our participants want to have the same opportunities as you and I. They want to get dressed up and go out to a function, a dance, a class, or a special outing, perhaps the Benedum or Heinz Hall! In a dignified environment, worthy of notice, our organization provides custom designed opportunities. Our participants will have involvement in the planning and implementation of the services offered. We are a “one of a kind” provider. No one else does what we do!
As a result of our many years of experience in the industry, PA Connecting Communities partnerships and relationships are extensive. PA Connecting Communities Board of Directors and advisory positions are made up of members from residential care facilities, base service units, educational groups, non profits, and the business community. Our volunteer groups, made up of high school students, college students, and senior citizens provides expertise and support. As a result of our uniqueness and reputation within the industry, our services are in demand and requested by participants, family members and professionals.
PACC was honored to receive the 2007 “Excellence in Organization Activities” award from Achieva.
We connect people with special needs to others by “Bridging the Gaps”. We prepare individuals for transitioning into various stages of life by helping them reach their full potential. Our services are designed to maximize their talents and interests. Our vision is to provide services at low or no cost to those financially distressed.
As a result of current state budget constraints and funding cuts from Harrisburg to the local communities, programs once designed for the disabled have been limited and some participants are now required to bear all associated costs. The increased fees per services passed on to the participants are not affordable and have become a major concern to family members, participants and fellow professionals. Due to fixed incomes and the nature of the person’s disabilities, the costs associated with the disabilities prevent many disabled from having the opportunity to engage in the programs that were once offered.
Once, not so long ago, dances were held with record players and donated cookies and punch in the basements of churches, dependant on the generosity of its membership. Educational classes were limited to those offered by school districts. Programs promoting the arts, health and fitness were non-existent. As an organization, PA Connecting Communities acts as a model for other communities and challenges all to raise the bar of standards and services provided. We ask for the support of our local and state leaders, business communities, and foundations.
Finally, you should know the following about us: Our organization was established in 2004 and is responsible for providing outstanding community services today and into the future. Our specialty is providing services to the ‘Special Needs’ population. Our regular customers particularly value the services we provide!
Thanks so much for your support!
Peggy Mannella
Arlene Bair
