Carnegie's PA Connecting Communities serves 3,000 people

PA Connecting Communities began in 2004 with the intention of improving the quality of life for individuals with a variety of disabilities. The organization’s mission is to empower and its guiding principles are integrity, inclusiveness and self-determination.

Serving seven counties in Western Pennsylvania, it is based at 800 North Bell Ave., Carnegie, but holds activities and events all across Allegheny County, particularly in the South and North Hills. They also partner with other nonprofits, school districts and agencies to provide services and programs.

Services for nearly 3,000 individuals include day centers, home and community habilitation — a process aimed at helping people attain, keep or improve skills and functioning for daily living — as well as pre-employment transition services, career development, rehabilitation, respite and behavioral consulting, and occupational therapy services. It also advocates for education of participants and families concerning legislation, latest industrial trends and available resources.

More than 1,000 activities and programs are sponsored yearly, ranging from shopping trips to cooking and fitness classes, holiday crafts, movies, mini golf, bowling, baseball games and dinner theater.

PA Connecting Communities will hold several events, including a Halloween party with games, crafts and lunch Oct. 29 at the Heidelberg Community Room, which will also be the site for karaoke and games Nov. 12. Service projects will take place at Bridgeville library from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 5 and 26 and Dec. 3.

A tour will be given of the Philly Pretzel Factory in Bridgeville starting at 11 a.m. Nov. 26. The annual Sparkle Dance, with music, dancing, prizes and food, will be Dec. 15 at the Doubletree Hotel in Green Tree. The group returns to the Heidelberg Community Room on Dec. 17 for gingerbread house making.

For event fees, times and details, visit paconnectingcommunities.org or call 412-621-6151.