Autumn is here, and with it comes a noticeable shift in the air. As leaves turn golden and temperatures dip, we are reminded there could be a new career on the horizon – a position with RHD! We are making a real difference in 13 states, offering essential services to diverse communities. From supporting people with disabilities to helping the homeless, RHD's impact is vast and meaningful. Right now, our programs nationwide are looking for Direct Support Professionals. If you're searching for a job that's both rewarding and impactful, look no further.

We’re excited to announce that Geo Banks-Weston will emcee the RHD Main Line Wine Gala, taking place at the Appleford Estates on October 12th. Known for his charismatic presence, Geo started as an Instagram food enthusiast in Philadelphia, eventually launching Geo’s Table in 2014. His mission is to showcase recipes from the African diaspora, spotlight Black-owned businesses, and explore the nexus of food and Black culture. In 2019, Geo extended his reach with the Table 86 podcast, featuring underrepresented content creators, entrepreneurs, and culinary professionals reshaping the food and beverage industry. His work has gained recognition in Food52, The Washington Post, Philadelphia Magazine, Simply Recipes, Eater Philly, and he has appeared on WHYY's Check Please! Philly. Geo serves on the boards of PA Eats, a non-profit tackling food insecurity in Pennsylvania, and Eat the Culture, which fosters a supportive community for Black culinary creators and entrepreneurs. His belief in the power of collaboration aligns seamlessly with RHD's mission, making him an ideal match for the Main Line Wine Gala. Geo embodies a community dedicated to excellence, joy, and inclusivity in the food and wine world, promoting education, advocacy, and celebration. Go to www.mainlinewinegala.org for more information.

RHD Empower lives up to its name. By opening its doors to help more women facing homelessness and addiction challenges, this site empowers them with opportunities for personal growth and a supportive community. On Monday, September 11th, RHD's Womanspace Philadelphia hosted a heartwarming welcome event at Empower, their newly established facility in the Germantown area. The event brought together program staff, participants, and alumni, alongside RHD staff and esteemed guests, for an enlightening and impactful discussion. Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, was among the guests who contributed to the conversation. Womanspace Philadelphia stands as the only residential treatment program catering to dually diagnosed, chronically homeless women in the region.

As the summer season came to a close, RHD programs in Pennsylvania wrapped things up by hosting a series of exciting and extra-fun events! On August 18th, Nova II organized and hosted Summer Fun Day at Neshaminy State Park. Participants, staff, and their families all attended the event. They enjoyed barbecuing, playing games, and dancing to music. The participants enthusiastically embraced the event and had a lot of fun. Nova II has plans to make this an annual tradition due to the overwhelming positive response. Nova II encourages fellow RHD programs to consider holding their own Summer Fun Days.



The NEPA IDD Division’s “Together, We're Better” BBQ at Ontelaunee Park in New Tripoli, PA, on September 13th, gathered 200 attendees for a day of camaraderie. The event featured a delicious BBQ spread, cornhole games, dancing, sweet treats like cupcakes and soft pretzels, and more. Esteemed RHD leadership, including Marco Giordano, Bernie Glavin, and Jermaine Graham, attended the occasion. It was a memorable event that showcased the unity within the division.

Are you an RHD program with a cool and exciting new event or development? Would you like to see it written about in RHD’s Connections, in addition to the RHD blog and social media? Let the Marketing and Communications team know! We’d love to spread the word about all the amazing work you do! Email michael.pelusi@rhd.org with your news tip! Or fill out our news tip form here. 

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