The Progressive Workshop of Armstrong County (PWAC) is set to hold an open house at its new Adult Achievement Center in Leechburg, inviting the community to learn more about its services for adults with mental disabilities. The event will take place on November 14, providing an opportunity for local residents and businesses to tour the facility and understand the various programs offered.
Key Takeaways
- Event Date: November 14
- Location: Adult Achievement Center, Market Street, Leechburg
- Purpose: Introduce the center to the community and explain referral processes
- Programs Offered: Small Group Employment, Supported Employment, and skill development
Overview of the Adult Achievement Center
Founded in 1968, the PWAC has been dedicated to providing essential services and programming for adults with mental disabilities. The new Adult Achievement Center aims to develop skills and behaviors that empower clients to lead independent lives.
CEO Michelle Reefer highlighted the growing need for services in the Leechburg area, noting an increase in referrals from local clients. This prompted the organization to establish a location closer to those in need, expanding its reach beyond its main facility in Kittanning and other locations in Shelocta, Indiana County.
Community Engagement
Since its opening on September 30, the Adult Achievement Center has received a warm welcome from local business owners and residents. Reefer expressed excitement about the positive reception, stating, "Everyone has been extremely welcoming."
The open house will feature tours of the facility and informational sessions on how to make referrals. This initiative aims to foster connections with the community and raise awareness about the services available.
Employment Programs
Local businesses will also have the chance to engage with the PWAC’s employment programs:
- Small Group Employment: Provides additional manpower for local projects, allowing businesses to benefit from the skills of PWAC clients.
- Supported Employment: Assists clients in navigating the interview process, with past successes including placements in fast-food restaurants, daycares, and banks.
In addition to these programs, clients will work with direct care staff to enhance their soft skills, including:
- Washing clothes
- Light cooking
- Fine motor skills
Reefer emphasized that the achievement center is designed to help clients acquire the skills necessary for various work settings, from pre-vocational to competitive hiring.
Expanding Reach
The PWAC accepts referrals from most counties in Western Pennsylvania. The new Market Street location is strategically positioned to serve a broader area, minimizing travel for clients seeking services.
"Leechburg is such a unique location because it borders three counties," Reefer noted, expressing enthusiasm about the center’s potential impact in the region.
As the PWAC continues to grow and adapt to the needs of the community, the open house represents a significant step in building relationships and enhancing support for adults with mental disabilities in Leechburg and beyond.
