Philadelphia is Buzzing with Activity!

Summer is in full swing, and Philadelphia has been buzzing with activity! FIFA, the MLB All-Star Game, and America’s 250th anniversary celebrations have brought excitement to the city. Terkessa and Delisa even had the opportunity to meet Mayor Cherelle Parker at the Juneteenth Celebration. We also had a great time at our FIFA Fun, Rock Painting, and Red, White, and Blue Bingo events.

There’s still plenty happening this summer, so be sure to check the SBR Activities Calendar for upcoming events and opportunities to get out and enjoy the community.

You can access the calendar here.

If you’re planning to drive to an activity in the city, be sure to check the local road closure list before you head out. That list can be found here.

We Need Your Pictures!

Social media plays an important role in showcasing everyday life for the individuals we support. When we share photos of individuals participating in work, attending community activities, and enjoying everyday experiences, we help keep inclusion and community living visible. This is especially important in today’s climate, when disability services and supports continue to face challenges.

Each month, we’ll share photo requests for upcoming social media posts. Please send your photos to Beth O’Connell at Beth@supportivebehavior.com, and be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

Before submitting photos, please check with your supervisor to confirm that a valid Photo Release is on file for the individual.

July Photo Requests

• Freeze Pop Day – Submit by July 7

• Tattoo Day (temporary or real) – Submit by July 16

• National Junk Food Day – Submit by July 21

If you’re planning to drive to an activity in the city, be sure to check the local road closure list before you head out. That list can be found here.

Don’t Miss July’s Town Hall

Our Family Town Halls continue to be a favorite among the families we support! Join us on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 1:00 PM or 6:00 PM for our next session.

We’re excited to welcome Diana Fishlock from the Pennsylvania Department of the Treasury, who will share information about the benefits of PA ABLE accounts and how they can help individuals with disabilities save and invest while protecting eligibility for certain benefits.

Register here to receive the meeting link.

SBR Open Enrollment for Employees Begins in July

Open Enrollment begins on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. All eligible employees will receive an email from Employee Navigator with instructions.

During Open Enrollment, you’ll have the opportunity to enroll in benefits or make changes to your current benefit elections for the coming year. Please be sure to review your options and submit any updates before the enrollment period ends.

If you have any questions, please contact Melissa or Kaitlyn in HR.

SBR has Benefits Counselors

Do you have questions about Medicaid, Social Security, or other public benefits? Before paying for a consultation with an outside counselor, reach out to Chris W. or Paula G. Both are certified benefits counselors who understand the needs of the individuals and families we support.

They can answer your benefits questions, help you understand your options, and guide you in the right direction.

Remember: Hands-Off Your Cell Phone When Driving!

Pennsylvania recently enacted Paul Miller’s Law. This law makes it illegal to hold, support, or use a hand-held device—including a cell phone, tablet, laptop, or similar electronic device—while driving.

Law enforcement officers can stop drivers who violate this law, which may result in fines and court costs.

If you have an emergency and need to make a call or send a text, please pull over to a safe location before using your device.

Move Your Way!

Swimming is a great way in the summer months to stay active and cool down! Philly pools are now open and have Sensory Swim time.

Click here to find your local pool. All pools are open 1:00 PM-4:00 PM for adult open swim. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated!

July Birthdays

We wish the happiest of Birthdays to: 

Timothy Miller, Roseanne Carcaci, William Feltwell, John Bennett Sr, Lisa Seeram, Dieudonne Faustin, Natalie Allen, Sharon Akinmade, Patricia Becerra, Mary Palovcak, Nyerere Jackson, Elizabeth O’Connell, Mary Anne MacCarter, Laura Marsh, Tara Rispo, Tarrie Togbah, Brenda Hogue, Jerilynn Makatche, Kathleen Brofman, Kathleen Ciolko, Dorcas Varela, Saye Bunnah, Raechelle Wells, Andre Allen, Oluwakemi Abiola, Lisa Schweizer, Rachael Ademola and Terkessa Bradsher.

July Employee Anniversaries

Congratulations to Jasmine Smith for 5 years of service!

Disability Rights PA Wants to Hear from You!

Each year, Disability Rights Pennsylvania asks residents to identify the issues that matter most to people with disabilities across the Commonwealth. This year’s survey is especially important given ongoing discussions about Medicaid, safety net programs such as SNAP, and the U.S. Department of Justice’s recent memorandum regarding the Olmstead decision.

Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and share what matters most to you. Your feedback helps inform Disability Rights PA’s advocacy priorities.

What is Olmstead and Why Does it Matter?

The Supreme Court case Olmstead v. L.C. established that unnecessarily segregating individuals with disabilities in institutions is discriminatory. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), people with disabilities have the right to receive state-funded, in-home and community-based services that support them in living in their communities when appropriate.

This decision was recently challenged by a handful of states, prompting the Department of Justice and the Office of Legal Counsel to issue a memo. The memo argues that Olmstead only prohibits unjustified institutionalization and does not explicitly require states to provide services in the least restrictive environment. You can read more about the memo here.

What can you do? Contact your federal legislators and urge them to protect your right to live in the community. You can find their contact information here.

We Need Family & Individual Stories

Vision for Equality is collecting stories from individuals and families about their Medicaid journey and why these services are so important to their everyday lives.  These stories are a powerful way to demonstrate the impact of Medicaid services and help make a compelling case to legislators about why these supports must be protected.

At the end of July, Vision for Equality will have a videographer and photographer available to meet with participating families and individuals. Beth will also be on-site to support SBR families and individuals throughout the process.

If you or your family are interested in participating, please reach out to

Beth O’Connell at Beth@supportivebehavior.com. She will be happy to answer your questions and provide more information about what to expect.

Does Your Family Receive SUN Bucks?

SUN Bucks provides eligible families with school-aged children who receive SNAP, Medicaid, or free or reduced-price school meals with a one-time $120 food benefit for the summer months.

If your child qualifies, you will receive a notice from your County Assistance Office, and the benefits will be loaded onto your existing EBT or SUN Bucks card.

Think your child qualifies but didn’t receive a notice? Contact your local County Assistance Office today. You can find your local office’s contact information here.

Barnes Foundation and Calder Gardens are free in July!

The Barnes Foundation and Calder Gardens are offering free admission for the entire month of July. You can find out more information about location and times here.

Celebrating a Birthday?

Make your day extra special and visit the NJ Aquarium. When you visit on your birthday, you receive a free admission ticket. Valid ID is required as proof of birthday. Check out more info here.

Important Dates

Previous issues: