Ruth and Bill Holzapfel Retire From Chartiers’ Lifesharing Program
On Thursday, October 6, 2016 Ruth and Bill Holzapfel were recognized for their 40yrs. of service to Chartiers Center’s Lifesharing Program. Ruth and Bill have opened their home to over a dozen Intellectually Disabled individuals over the course of those years. This October the family retired and handed the scepter down to their daughters Ruthann and Dianne. All of the Holzapfel children have been involved in the Special Needs arena, in one way or another, thanks to the wonderful example set by their parents. Congratulations and thank you to Ruth and Bill.
New Works of Art Were Displayed at the Thanksgiving Luncheon
In keeping with their love of artistic expression, the folks in Chartiers’ IDD Program displayed new works of art at the Thanksgiving lunch. The art display was enjoyed by the staff, volunteers, family and visitors. The art was created using different mediums and color palettes. Some of the individuals chose to duplicate famous works of art using their own interpretation of color and form to recreate their own renderings. Others were supported by staff in a hand over hand method of application. Some of the artists are pictured standing next to their art work.
This is a favorite activity among all the individuals in the program. Included on this page is only a sample of some of the art proudly on display in the program located in Dormont.
Cindy is standing next to her “flip flops” picture (bottom right).
Joyce is standing to the left of her “black and white” painting.
Wes stands next to the colorful painting of the girl with the big eyes.
Jason happily stands next to his seasonal scarecrow.
Toppy painted a colorful picture of the Pittsburgh skyline.
Adult Training Facility
This center is located in Dormont and supports programs for adults with intellectual disabilities. The upstairs program is work orientation program that provides work skills training for on-site contract work and supported employment in the community. The emphasis is job readiness and employment skills. An employment coach is available to provide assistance with community placements.
The downstairs program serves seniors and others with physical limitations or medical needs. The program explores leisure time activities. Both programs support individual’s safety and wellness goals, and provide opportunities for socialization, daily living skills and recreation activities.
Every week new theme based activities are incorporated into the program that includes:
- Artistic Expression
- Cooking Classes
- Gardening
- Music
- Therapy Dogs
- Exercise Groups and Yoga
- Shoebox Learning Concepts – Introducing the “shoebox learning concept” a new client centered approach which will enable each client to further achieve their own individual goals with greater success.
- iPad Technology – using mainstream technology to enhance daily programming that will connect clients to the community they live in and allow them to share in the world of multi-media learning.
Lifesharing Program
Chartiers’ Lifesharing Program is a residential alternative for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who want to live with host families in Allegheny County. The families help the individuals manage their daily living needs, work schedules and social activities. The program also provides respite care and a monthly stipend for the families.
The photo on the left was taken at the Lifesharing Information Fair in October. Pictured are Ruthann Holzapfel (Lifesharing provider), and Micky Cogley, Chartiers’ staff, and the two women who now life with Ruthann. Ruthann is holding her certificate of participation and Micky is holding the certificate that was awarded to Ruth and Bill Holzapfel who recently retired from the program. On behalf of Chartiers Center and the Lifesharing Coalition our sincere thanks to Ruth and Bill and to Ruthann for carrying on a family tradition of love and support.
Referrals 
Chartiers Center’s IDD Program has streamlined our referral process and the intake packet. For ISC’s looking to make referrals, please complete the new 1 page referral form. IDD Referral Form
If you have questions related to the program and/or the referrals process please call or email:
Micky Cogley
Multi- Support Specialist
Marketing/Recruiting
412 221-3302 ext.187
mcogley@chartierscenter.org