VERLAND'S STATE-OF-THE-HEART MISSION COMES OF AGE

Dedicated to providing state-of-the-heart community lifestyles for persons with disabilities, Verland recently celebrated 21+ years of non-profit human service with an emotion-filled program and gala reception at Christ Church at Grove Farm in Sewickley. This celebration capped a year-long observance of Verland's coming-of-age, and will culminate with their 22^nd anniversary on July 1^st.

Carol B. Mitchell, Verland's Co-Founder, President & CEO, welcomed over 300 guests with a riveting video documentary recounting the dramatic challenges and triumphs that have marked Verland's path. Amidst numerous standing ovations, Ms. Mitchell also bestowed engraved state-of-the-heart awards upon those individuals whose personal efforts have been pivotal to Verland's success over the past two decades. Having personally promoted the rights and mission of Verland at the State level, the Honorable Pennsylvania State Senator, Melissa A. Hart, was one of many honored recipients during the evening's festivities.

Long recognized as bold innovators in the field of human services, Verland currently provides highly individualized supports in community settings for over two hundred people with mental retardation and physical disabilities. Of that number, ninety-four individuals currently reside on Verland's picturesque Sewickley campus which boasts ten attractively appointed homes, as on-site licensed adult training facility, a renowned equestrian therapy program, a therapeutic aquatic program, full-time nursing personnel and other comprehensive therapeutic services. The remaining Verlanders live in 35 smaller homes throughout Allegheny, Mercer and Fayette Counties, pursuing meaningful lives in the community while working at jobs, attending school, pursuing hobbies and participating in neighborhood events.

"It is such an honor to have arrived at this blessed milestone," observed Ms. Mitchell. "Providing dignified and respectful alternative to the inhumanity of institutionalization has been an arduous but rewarding struggle. In part, this celebration was to ensure that we never forget how hard we fought and how far we've come…We have God to thank for so much."

Inquiries regarding access to Verland's many services as well as employment and donation opportunities in support of their non-profit mission are welcome at (412) 741-2375, or visit www.verland.org for more in-depth information.