https://www.harrellassistedlivinghomes.com/

Harrell Assisted Living Homes, 1051 Pontiac Road, Suite 837, Drexel Hills, PA (2026)

02/21/2026

Today, we are taking a moment to honor a true "Winter Warrior" and the heart of our nursing team: Nurse Rochelle.

Rochelle has been a devoted member of the Harrell Assisted Living Homes family for the past three years, and the impact she has made is immeasurable. In a field that requires constant vigilance and precision, Rochelle brings something even more powerful: unconditional love.

Why We’re Thankful for Rochelle:
Leading with Heart: While her medical knowledge is extensive, it’s her compassion that truly sets her apart. She doesn’t just treat symptoms; she cares for the whole person.

A Voice for Our Residents: For our clients with intellectual disabilities and autism, Rochelle is more than a nurse—she is a fierce advocate who ensures every individual is treated with the dignity they deserve.

The Ultimate Team Player: Rochelle’s energy lifts up the entire "huddle." She leads by example, showing us all what it means to serve with excellence and empathy.

"Without individuals like Rochelle, we are nothing." It is the dedication of people like her that allows us to provide a safe, thriving environment for our Philadelphia community.

Rochelle, thank you for the countless lives you’ve touched and for the joy you bring to our homes every single day. We are so proud to have you on our team! ✨

Leave a "💙" in the comments to show Nurse Rochelle some love!

02/21/2026

Looking for a way to get your loved one out, mobile, and engaged this weekend? We have the perfect "huddle" for you!

This Saturday, Feb 21, we’re heading to the "Art for All" Workshop for a morning of movement and color.

✨ Event Details:
What: A sensory-friendly art session for teens and adults with Down syndrome.

Theme: "Colors of Community" – featuring large-scale collaborative painting!

Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Where: Local Community Centers (Check with Art-Reach Philly for specific neighborhood locations).

🌟 Why We Love It:
It’s more than just painting! Collaborative art encourages residents to move around the canvas, interact with peers, and express themselves in a low-pressure, high-joy environment.

💡 Pro-Tips for our "Winter Warriors":
Before you head out, keep these tips in mind:

Layer Up: The Philly chill is still here! Wear comfortable layers that you don't mind getting a little paint on.

Prep the Path: Check for accessible parking and salted walkways before you unload.

Stay Hydrated: Energy stays high when hydration is a priority—even in the cold!

🔗 GET MORE INFO & LOCATIONS HERE: www.art-reach.org/events

At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we believe community integration is the key to thriving. Let’s show Philly the beautiful colors our community can create! 🌈✨

Are you planning to join? Tag a friend below who needs a creative morning out! 👇

02/20/2026

Caregiving is a labor of love, but even the strongest hearts need a moment to recharge. At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we believe that Respite Care isn’t just a luxury—it’s a vital resource for maintaining a healthy, happy home.

Is Respite Care Right for You?
You might be a candidate for respite services if you are:

The Primary Caregiver: If you provide 24/7 support for a loved one with intellectual disabilities (IDD) or autism and are feeling the signs of "caregiver burnout."

A Family in Transition: If you have an upcoming surgery, a business trip, or a family emergency and need a safe, professional environment for your loved one.

Seeking Socialization: If your loved one would benefit from a change of pace, new activities, and the opportunity to build social skills in a structured community setting.

Planning for the Future: If you want to "test the waters" of residential living to see how your loved one adapts to a professional care environment.

How We Serve Those in Need
We don't just provide a bed; we provide a home away from home. Our respite services are designed to be seamless, supportive, and stress-free for both the caregiver and the individual.

Personalized "Huddle" Plans: Before your loved one arrives, we learn their routines, sensory preferences, and medical needs so their transition is smooth.

Professional Nursing Oversight: With team members like Nurse Rochelle, you can rest assured that medications and health checks are handled with expert precision.

Inclusive Activities: Respite guests are fully included in our daily activities—from sensory-friendly Valentine’s crafts to community outings.

Total Peace of Mind: We provide regular updates so you can truly unplug, knowing your loved one is safe, engaged, and cared for.

Remember: Taking care of yourself is part of taking care of them. 💙

📩 Ready to schedule a break? Contact us today to learn about our flexible respite options in Philadelphia: INFO@harrellassistedlivinghomes.com

02/20/2026

This Black History Month, we are honoring a woman of incredible "firsts" whose heart for service remains the blueprint for compassionate care today.

At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we are inspired by Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler, a pioneer who proved that medicine is not just a science—it is a mission of mercy and equity.

🩺 Breaking the Ultimate Barrier
In 1864, amidst the Civil War, Dr. Crumpler became the first Black woman in the United States to earn a medical degree. She graduated from the New England Female Medical College at a time when most medical schools were closed to both women and people of color.

📖 A Legacy of Healing and Knowledge
Dr. Crumpler didn’t just practice medicine; she transformed how care was delivered to the most vulnerable:

The Freedmen’s Bureau: She moved to Richmond, Virginia, to treat formerly enslaved people who had been denied basic medical care. She braved intense prejudice to ensure her patients were treated with dignity.

Focus on Women & Children: She dedicated much of her career to the health of mothers and infants, recognizing that strong families are the foundation of a strong community.

A Literary Trailblazer: In 1883, she published A Book of Medical Discourses. It was one of the first medical books ever written by a Black author, offering a "huddle" of advice on how to care for the health of women and children.

💡 Why Her Impact Matters Today
Dr. Crumpler’s focus on the "social determinants of health"—the idea that where you live and how you are treated affects your wellness—is exactly why we do what we do.

Like Dr. Crumpler, we believe that specialized care for the vulnerable is a calling. Her courage paved the way for the diverse medical professionals we have today, from the doctors who specialize in IDD and autism to our own devoted team members.

We honor Dr. Crumpler by continuing her work: providing a safe, healthy, and dignified home for every individual in our care. ✊🏾💙

02/19/2026

At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, our mission is to provide the most helpful, inclusive, and engaging content for our Philadelphia community. But to do that, we need to know what matters most to your "huddle."

🧩 What’s on your mind?
Whether you are a caregiver, a family member, or a professional in the IDD and autism community, we want to tailor our posts to your interests. Do you want to see:

Caregiver Tips: More "Sensory Solutions" or advice on avoiding burnout? 🧘‍♀️

Educational Deep Dives: Exploring the "why" behind adaptive behaviors or medical equity? 🧠

Behind the Scenes: More staff spotlights like Nurse Rochelle or "Day in the Life" tours? 🏥

Community Resources: Local Philly events, snow removal lists, or inclusive art workshops? 🏛️

Life Skills: Practical guides for helping loved ones with budgeting, cooking, or safety? 🍳

📩 How to Reach Us:
Your voice helps us build a more inclusive community. Send us a DM with your suggestions, questions, or topics you'd like us to cover! No suggestion is too big or too small. If it helps you or your loved one thrive, we want to talk about it.

02/19/2026

Today is National Battery Day, and while most people think of remote controls or flashlights, for the disability community, batteries represent something much more powerful: Independence, Mobility, and Communication.

At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we know that a charged battery isn't just a convenience—it’s a lifeline for our residents with intellectual disabilities and autism.

⚡ The Critical Role of Batteries in Care:
Mobility & Freedom: For residents who use power wheelchairs, the battery is the "engine" that allows them to navigate their world, visit neighbors, and explore Philly. A reliable charge means a day without limits.

Giving Voice to the Voiceless: Many of our clients use AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices or tablets to speak. These high-tech "voices" rely entirely on battery power to ensure our residents can express their needs, feelings, and choices.

Sensory Regulation: From noise-canceling headphones that prevent sensory overload to vibrating tactile vests, battery-operated tools help our residents stay calm and regulated in a busy world.

Medical Safety: Equipment like portable oxygen concentrators, pulse oximeters, and specialized bed alarms often rely on battery backups to keep our residents safe during travel or power outages.

🛠️ Harrell’s "Power-Up" Protocol:
We don't leave things to chance! Our team, including the dedicated Nurse Rochelle, follows a strict "Power-Up" routine:

Nightly Docking: Ensuring all communication devices are charged and ready for "voice time" in the morning.

Battery Health Checks: Regularly testing wheelchair batteries to ensure they hold a full charge for community outings.

The "Backup" Huddle: Keeping a stash of fresh batteries and portable power banks ready for any "Winter Warrior" adventures in the snow!

Today, we salute the "hidden energy" that keeps our community moving forward!

Does your loved one rely on a battery-powered device? Give a shout-out to the tech that makes their life easier in the comments! 👇

02/18/2026

It’s Hump Day, and we’re having a Hump-norous amount of fun at Harrell Assisted Living Homes! 🐪✨

We know that the "mid-week slump" is real, but for our residents, Wednesday is all about high energy and meaningful connection. Ever wonder how we keep our loved ones with intellectual disabilities and autism so engaged?

It’s not just about staying busy—it’s about purposeful play. 🧩🎨

How We Build the Fun:
The "Interest Huddle": We don't believe in one-size-fits-all. We learn what makes each resident light up—whether it's classic Philly sports, music, or hands-on crafts—and build activities around their passions.

Sensory-Smart Engagement: We adapt every activity to fit sensory needs. If a group game is too loud, we pivot to a "Sensory Sideline" version so no one is left out of the fun.

Skill-Building in Disguise: Whether we’re "hiring" residents for a fun mock-office task or cooking a simple snack, we’re practicing life skills like fine motor control and following directions while laughing the whole time.

Community Connection: We love getting out into our Philly community! Mid-week trips to local parks or accessible libraries keep the scenery fresh and the spirits high.

💡 Hump Day Challenge:
What is one activity that always makes your loved one smile? Share it in the comments! Let’s trade ideas and keep the fun going all week long. 👇

02/18/2026

Today marks the historical shift when our televisions went from fuzzy lines to crystal-clear pixels! While digital TV brought us incredible clarity and choice, sometimes the sheer volume of options and sensory input can be overwhelming for individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism.

At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we're all about Sensory-Friendly Screen Time! We believe everyone should enjoy the magic of TV without the "sensory overload."

💡 Sensory-Friendly Screen Time: Our Top Picks!
📺 Channels/Networks Known for Calm:
PBS Kids: Many shows are designed with slower pacing, clear dialogue, and educational themes. Check out classics like Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood or Sesame Street (many modern episodes are excellent).

Sprout (Universal Kids): Often offers gentle programming. Look for shows with consistent formats and predictable narratives.

Smithsonian Channel / Nature Documentaries: High-quality visuals of nature can be incredibly calming, often paired with soothing narration and minimal sudden loud noises.

📱 TV Apps & Streaming Services:
YouTube Kids: Allows you to curate playlists of specific, calm content. Search for "sensory friendly" or "calming videos."

Disney+: Many classic Disney animated shorts and slower-paced nature series (like DisneyNature) can be great.

Netflix (Kids Profile): Utilize the kids' profile to filter for age-appropriate and less intense content.

Headspace App (for TV): Offers guided meditations and sleep stories with calming visuals and audio, perfect for winding down.

🎬 Movies & TV Shows (Examples):
Movies: My Neighbor Totoro (gentle, imaginative), Paddington (warm, kind), Fantasia (classical music with abstract visuals).

TV Shows: Mister Rogers' Neighborhood (timeless, slow-paced, directly addresses feelings), Puffin Rock (gentle animation, nature-focused), Bluey (while active, it often models social skills in a very positive way and can be watched in short bursts).

Pro-Tips for Sensory-Friendly Viewing:
Control Volume: Always keep the sound at a comfortable level.

Dim the Lights: Reduce eye strain and overstimulation.

Short Bursts: Don't feel pressured to watch a whole movie. Short episodes or segments are often better.

No Surprises: Preview content if possible to avoid sudden loud noises or flashing lights.

What are your go-to sensory-friendly shows or movies? Share your favorites in the comments below! 👇

02/17/2026

At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, our commitment to equity isn't just a policy—it's our foundation. ✊🏾✨

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe that a diverse team isn't just a strength; it’s a necessity for providing truly compassionate, culturally competent care. This Black History Month, we are reflecting on the pioneers who paved the way for medical and social equity right here in Philadelphia.

Why Diversity Matters in Care:
Representation: For our residents with intellectual disabilities and autism, seeing caregivers and leaders who look like them fosters a deeper sense of belonging and safety.

Equity in Action: We actively fight against the "diagnosis gap" that historically sees Black individuals with IDD or autism receive later diagnoses and fewer resources.

Inclusive Leadership: Our doors are open to talent from all backgrounds. We know that the best care comes from a huddle of diverse perspectives, experiences, and voices.

Honoring the Past, Building the Future
From the legacy of Dr. Nathan Mossell to the local advocates working in Philly today, we draw inspiration from those who refused to accept the status quo. We don't just celebrate Black history in February; we honor it year-round by ensuring our workplace and our homes are spaces of respect, opportunity, and dignity for all.

Join a team where your voice matters. We are always looking for compassionate individuals who share our vision for a more equitable Philadelphia.

🔗 Visit our website to see current openings: www.harrellassistedlivinghomes.com or send your resume and CV to: info@harrellassistedlivinghomes.com

02/17/2026

Independence grows one small choice at a time. For individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism, mastering the art of the "small purchase" is a major milestone in self-advocacy and life skills!

At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we use a simple, structured 5-Step Method to help our residents understand the value of money and make confident choices at the store.

🛒 5 Steps to a Successful Purchase:
Step 1: The Balance Check 🪙
Before we head to the aisle, we check how much money is available. This sets the "boundary" for what we can look for and prevents frustration later.

Step 2: The Price Tag Hunt 🏷️
We practice looking for the numbers on the tag or shelf. Is the item $2.00 or $10.00? Recognizing these numbers is the first part of "Practical Math."

Step 3: Enough vs. Not Enough 🤔
This is the "Decision Step." We compare the money in our hand to the price on the tag. If we have more money than the price, we have "Enough!"

Step 4: The Hand-Off 🤝
Completing the transaction at the register is a social and practical skill. We practice waiting in line, greeting the cashier, and handing over the money.

Step 5: The "Safe Keep" 🧾
The job isn't done until the change and the receipt are tucked away in a wallet or safe place. This reinforces responsibility and organization.

💡 Pro-Tip for Caregivers:
Start small! Try this at a local Philly corner store or a favorite coffee shop. Success with a small purchase builds the confidence needed for larger financial goals later on.

Is your loved one working on a new life skill? Share their progress with us in the comments! 👇

02/16/2026

Today, as we celebrate Presidents' Day, we take a special moment to recognize and honor Barack Obama, the 44th President and the first Black President of the United States.

At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, his journey from community organizer to the highest office in the land resonates deeply with us. His legacy reminds us that change starts from the ground up—in our neighborhoods, our homes, and our "huddles."

✨ A Legacy of Care and Progress
President Obama’s time in office brought landmark shifts that directly impacted the lives of our residents and families:

The Affordable Care Act: Expanded healthcare access for millions, ensuring that individuals with pre-existing conditions—including intellectual disabilities and autism—could no longer be denied coverage.

Advocacy for Disability Rights: He championed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and worked to break down barriers to employment and community inclusion for people with disabilities.

A Call to Service: He often reminded us that "the most important title is not 'president,' but 'citizen.'" This spirit of service is exactly what drives our team to show up for our clients every single day.

💡 Inspiring the Next Generation
For our residents, seeing the first Black President was a powerful reminder that your start does not have to determine your end. Excellence, grace, and a commitment to others are the true measures of a leader.

Today, we don't just celebrate the leaders of the past; we celebrate the potential in every resident we serve. We are all "the ones we’ve been waiting for."

How are you serving your community this Presidents' Day? Share your "small act of kindness" below! 👇

Harrell Assisted Living Homes

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