MCKEESPORT, PA (October 11, 2007) – Mon Yough Community Services’ senior management and Board of Directors hosted an autumn luncheon for local McKeesport and White Oak community leaders. The tented event was held on Wednesday, October 10 to celebrate Mon Yough’s nearly forty years of service to the Mon Valley area.

Executive director, Noreen Fredrick, welcomed guests to the MYCS campus in the courtyard of the Vocational Business Alliance building in McKeesport. She stressed the value of leadership efforts to help sustain growth and promote wellness in the community. She also noted the importance of building local partnerships to assist the elderly population, and those with mental health, drug and alcohol, and developmental needs.

Enthusiastic MYCS consumers and staff helped prepare and serve the luncheon under the direction of certified chef Susie Dorich, a food service instructor for MYCS. Consumers showcased their culinary skills, and received a round of applause from attendees for their excellent work. A recently-produced DVD illustrating Mon Yough’s growth, success and mission touched guests, and provided them with an emotional and positive insight into the organization.

Guests were also able to tour the Vocational Business Alliance building and see MYCS’ bulk mail service business in action. Market Street Mail, a bulk mail service that has contracts with both large and small community businesses, offers a consistent source of income for individuals living with developmental disability challenges. Performing a much-needed community service gives individuals a heightened sense of self worth.

The luncheon was a major success for MYCS, and brought together a number of community leaders seeking to make meaningful and lasting relationships in the Mon Valley area. Attendees included:

• Robert Walters and Jerry Gesmond – Blue Roof Technologies Inc.

• Mary Ann Pope – Family Advisory council member

• Deborah Molinari – Director, McKeesport Development Corporation

• Michael Matta – Director of Federal/State Programs, McKeesport Area School District

• Paul D’Alesandro – representing Congressman Mike Doyle

• Mayor Ina Jean Martin – Mayor of White Oak

• Joe Hoffmann – White Oak Police Chief

• Pat Winters and Linda Curinga – Penn State, Greater Allegheny campus

• JoAnn Leckman – Family Advisory council member

MYCS fosters hope, renewal, healing, and wellness for those in McKeesport and surrounding communities facing the challenges of mental health, substance abuse disorders, and developmental disabilities. MYCS focuses on rehabilitation, recovery, and quality of life in its mission to help individuals, families and the community at large get better.

For more information, contact Noreen Fredrick of MYCS at 412-647-3555.