Resources for Human Development

RHD's Community Passages in Western Pennsylvania is more than a residential program — it’s a place where individuals with developmental disabilities and dual diagnoses are empowered to grow, thrive, and make meaningful choices for themselves. In a home environment, residents build life skills, strengthen their confidence, and pursue the things that matter most to them.

That spirit of empowerment shines through in the actions of Paul and Brad, two individuals at Community Passages, who turned their passion for helping the environment into an inspiring Earth Day tradition. With the encouragement and support of Lead DSP David Joseph, the pair has spent the last three years giving back to their community by cleaning litter from local parks and recycling cans and bottles. This year, they expanded their efforts even further by helping an elderly neighbor brighten her yard with newly planted flowers.

As spring blooms across Western Pennsylvania, Paul has also been hard at work building new raised garden beds alongside staff Bob Wilson and James Shoaf. Now, with tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers freshly planted, Paul is looking forward to a season filled with fresh vegetables, hard work, and pride in what he has accomplished.

RHD is grateful for the outstanding and innovative leadership at Community Passages. The dedication and support empower individuals at Community Passages to pursue their goals, discover their potential, and recognize their value.

This Memorial Day, we honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedoms. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to military families, veterans, and all who continue to serve. Their sacrifice reminds us of the value of freedom, the strength of unity, and the importance of supporting one another in our communities.

RHD is proud to honor the contributions and resiliency of the Jewish American community and heritage. We recognize and celebrate the generations of Jewish Americans who have strengthened our communities through leadership, service, and advocacy.

RHD is committed to fostering a community where diversity is valued, every voice is respected, and everyone belongs.

This May, RHD proudly honors Haitian Heritage Month.

From art, music, and food to education, advocacy, and community leadership, Haitian heritage continues to inspire and strengthen our communities every day.

We recognize the enduring spirit of Haiti and the voices, traditions, and achievements of its people. We are so fortunate at RHD to have many of those traditions shared within our own community.

Together, let's celebrate Haitian culture, courage, and unity! 🌺 💙❤️ 🌺

This May, we celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities that continue to strengthen and enrich our neighborhoods, workplaces, and society.

We also recognize the resilience of AAPI individuals and families who have faced barriers, discrimination, and inequities, while continuing to lead, advocate, and build community.

RHD remains committed to fostering inclusion, equity, and belonging for all. We honor the voices, experiences, and impact of all communities and stand alongside them in creating a more just and compassionate world.

This week, RHD is proud to spotlight Charlene Carothers, Senior Executive Director of Nursing, MSN, RN, CDDN.

Charlene recently presented at The Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association (DDNA) on how Health Risk Screening Tool (HRST) dashboards and lifetime medical histories can strengthen care for individuals with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (IDD). By using data more intentionally, care teams can identify risk earlier, strengthen care planning, and deliver more proactive, personalized support.

Charlene's work is an example of how informed decision-making and collaboration can lead to better outcomes and quality of care.

Thank you, Charlene, for your contributions to carrying out RHD's mission.

TODAY: come by to learn about career opportunities at RHD's new program in Philadelphia!

RHD is proud to recognize Lisa Little, Director of Quality & Compliance for Pennsylvania IDD, for her outstanding leadership and contributions during our recent Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) licensing inspection.

Successful licensing reviews demand precision, coordination, and operational discipline. Throughout the inspection process, Lisa demonstrated each of these qualities by helping the team remain organized, prepared, and focused at every stage.

Her ability to manage documentation and compliance requirements, anticipate needs, and support cross-team alignment contributed meaningfully to a smooth and effective review process. Lisa’s professionalism, responsiveness, and steady leadership had a clear impact on the team’s success.

We are grateful for Lisa’s commitment to excellence and for the positive example she sets through her work every day. Please join us in recognizing her for this important achievement and ongoing contribution to our mission.

Please join us in thanking and celebrating our nurses this Sunday for their outstanding service and commitment.