Building Community, One Picnic at a Time
Published August 27, 2026
Across Merrick’s prevocational and employment programs, summer picnics have become a meaningful tradition that brings clients and staff together to strengthen connections and create lasting memories.
One program that has embraced this tradition for many years is Merrick’s Independent Services Program, or I-Team. Its annual summer picnic brings clients together for a day of fun, friendship, and connection. Since many I-Team clients work independently in the community, the event offers a valuable opportunity to gather with peers and strengthen relationships. Yard games, friendly competitions, and prizes create an atmosphere of laughter, camaraderie, and celebration.
For clients who work in Merrick’s onsite production facility, the annual summer picnic at 3210 Labore Road offers its own unique opportunity to celebrate. The event features a catered lunch from a food truck owned by the father of a Merrick staff member, giving clients the chance to enjoy a special meal with friends and coworkers. For many, dining out is an uncommon experience, making the meal all the more memorable. To express their gratitude, clients present the caterer with a handmade thank-you sign and show their appreciation with a heartfelt round of applause.
While picnics are a longstanding tradition in some programs, this summer marked a milestone for Merrick’s Off-Site Services as the program hosted its first-ever picnic. The debut event featured face painting, cotton candy, and temporary tattoos, helping create a fun and memorable experience for all who attended. Whether cotton candy will become a staple of future picnics remains up for debate after the volunteer operating the machine finished the day covered from head to toe in candy floss.
When asked about the significance of these picnics, Assistant Program Director Amy Jacobsen commented: “Moments like these create lasting memories and remind us how valuable, shared experiences can be.”
While supporting individuals in achieving their employment goals remains central to our mission, we are equally committed to fostering a sense of belonging. Traditions such as our annual picnics provide opportunities to build friendships, strengthen connections, and create shared memories, ensuring that our community remains as strong as ever.