Bucks, Lehigh and Philadelphia Counties, PA – New Vitae Wellness and Recovery spent the past year celebrating four decades of unwavering commitment and pioneering service in the behavioral health field. To kick off our monumental year-long anniversary celebration, we had surprise pop-up ice cream trucks at all of our sites on June 8th, 2023, our date of incorporation that we call “Founder’s Day.” Members of our 40th Committee gave out a cinch backpack to each staff which contained a sweatshirt, water bottle, cookies from a local baker, and a stationary set all adorned with the limited-edition anniversary logo. Everyone was excited to receive them and were proud to be part of this significant milestone year celebration.
To honor this monumental achievement, a series of fun and engaging events were planned and enjoyed throughout the year, culminating in a wonderful gala on the Spirit of Philadelphia exactly one year later to the day on 6/8/24.
A Year of Joyful Celebrations
After the fun of the ice cream trucks visiting all our locations in Philadelphia, Quakertown, and Limeport, we gathered for a massive picnic at Lake Nockamixon in July. A chartered bus brought up staff and their families from our Philly sites. Staff and their families had a fun-filled day with live music from Kendal Conrad, outdoor games including a cornhole competition and a water balloon toss for prizes, delicious catered food, pedal boats, and children’s activities including face painting and a pinata. “It was so much fun being all together with our peers and families celebrating” said Donna Devlin, Owner, Executive Administrator and 40th Committee Member. All employees who attended received a limited-edition orange beach towel with the logo.
Inviting our families of our residents to celebrate with us, we turned back the clock to when we were incorporated with an 80’s-themed Family Day Celebration. Our Mount Trexler Manor location was transformed into a vibrant scene from the 80s with Pac Man and Rubiks Cube Photo Corner, and 80’s themed food and activities. Everyone enjoyed grooving to nostalgic hits in neon outfits and iconic hairstyles. “It was like stepping into a time machine. The energy was electric!” exclaims Diana Amaro, Residential Director at Pathways and member of the 40th Committee. Everyone left with framed pictures as a memento.
Further bonding over shared experiences, our northern company staff cheered at an Iron Pigs baseball game at Coca-Cola Park, donning 40th NV baseball hats and reveling in the spirit of the game. Similarly, our Philadelphia team enjoyed a classic outing at a Phillies game. “Attending the Phillies game was a fantastic display of community and teamwork,” said Samara, Administrator of the RTFA and other Philadelphia services at New Vitae Wellness and Recovery and 40th Committee Member. “It truly reflected the spirit of unity that defines New Vitae.” This event was a perfect blend of sports and community.
A Grand Finale on the Water
Our year-long festivities culminated with a gala aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia. In a night of style and excitement, staff and their guests donned cocktail attire and danced the night away. The shining lights of the city skyline, dancing and our personal professional photographer created a magical and festive atmosphere. “This evening is a testament to our journey together, celebrating our past achievements and eagerly anticipating our future,” said Adam Devlin, Owner and Board Chair, as part of the toast to start the celebration. Each staff member who went received a engraved frame to put their professional pictures in.
Throughout the year, our facilities sparkled with festive decor, including special signs commemorating our 40 years of service. These signs not only enhanced our workspaces and let the community know we were celebrating but were also brought to our annual resident beach trip, adding a celebratory touch and reminding us of our proud history and achievements.
“As we look back over the past 40 years, our hearts are full of gratitude. Each member of our staff has played a crucial role in our success through their dedication to exceptional care. We are not just celebrating our past; we are motivated and excited for our future,” reflects Judith Yanacek, President/CEO
Here’s to many more years of New Vitae Wellness and Recovery making a profound difference in the lives of those we serve.
