Human Services Center Corporation

I am a board director for the Human Services Center (HSCC). I am proud to be associated with all of the talented and committed board directors, volunteers, interns, and staff. When I began my career at Auberle in 1989, the HSCC was one of the first places I went to gather information on the community and innovative ways to positively impact it. Nothing has changed since then - as the HSCC is still a creative leader in the community!!

I am part of the Mature Workers Program sponsored by the Urban league, presently working for the Human Service Center Corporation of Turtle Creek, Pa. I have been here 18 months. The compassion, empathy and commitment shown by the entire staff of HSCC towards their clients and potential clients is primary in their lives. They put in long hours. They listen to the clients concerns, needs, and everyday life problems. They explore every possibility to help clients. The programs and events they sponsor cover families and people from infancy through senior citizens. No one is left out. I feel honored to be able to work for HSCC and be a part of their mission. It is enriching my life and hopefully making me a better person.

I was very pleasantly surprised to see how many different services are available at the Human Services Center. From after school care to senior programs, the Human Services Center offers a wealth of resources and all with a smiling face!

The Human Services Center Corporation (HSCC) provides life changing programs and services to individuals of all ages and backgrounds in the Mon Valley region, located just miles outside of the City of Pittsburgh. This area has been extremely hard hit since the collapse of the steel industry in Pittsburgh (i.e. the early '80s). The Human Services Center Corporation admirably advocates on behalf of these individuals and families to receive more resources, as well as administers programs and services to those who need it the most. As if that were not enough, what also separates this nonprofit from so many others is the high caliber of its employees, its leadership and board of directors. If you are looking for a case study on what a great nonprofit looks like take a trip to the Turtle Creek area just outside of Pittsburgh, and ask to speak with the organization's Executive Director, Dave Coplan. You will leave amazed at the results this nonprofit has achieved.

I am a new intern at the Human Services Center. Although I don't have much experience in the field the staff at HSCC have made me feel welcome and confident in my abilities. From my short time here I am able to see that teamwork is an important asset that everyone shares. By working together the HSCC team is able to provide services, fill gaps, and effectively help their clients.

I first met Alicia while I was volunteering in the kitchen of the Senior Center. She was behind that smiling face, always hurrying about. She could be seen behind a paint brush or a computer. I didnt know at that time why she was always in a hurry. Then I became a part of their team as a Senior Aide. On my first day, Alicia said that I will be surprised at all that takes place in our buildings and boy was I ever. I had no Idea that all this help was provided here. we have help for the youth the young youth as well as the teens. We also help women and children who are dealing in some way with drugs and abusive. The people who need help in other ways also receive guidance if we can not directly help them. I am glad to be a small part of this large program.

I have been in the Emerging Leaders Program for around 2 years. It is a very helpful program that I enjoy coming to. The Emerging Leaders Program gave me enough knowledge and help to optain my first job. The staff of the emerging leaders program are extremely kind, helpful, and thoughtful. Throughout the year w

I recently just joined the Emerging Leaders Program here at the Human Service Center Corporation. I am looking forward to being a part of this program so that I can better prepare myself for when I get out of high school. I am really looking forward to learning how to prepare for my future and any future jobs that I might get. My brother has been in the program for several years now and really likes it. It was because of him that I had decided to join. Everyone that I have met here has been really great to me and helpful. I am looking forward to being a part of the Emerging Leaders.

I am currently a member of the emerging learders program (ELP), which is a great oppurtunity for me to find help with job experience and getting ready for my career outside of high school. I believe that the human services center has a positive effect on our community because they really care about all the people that they service. The Emerging Leaders Program has provided many opportunities for me to job shadow, go on different field trips to area colleges, and to listen to guest speakers from other organizations in the community.

The Human Services Center has help throughout the years by keeping me out of trouble, and helping me prepare for my future. It also has provided a variety of activities for people to be involved in such as field trips, afterschool activities, and guest speakers. I am in a program at the center called ELP(Emerging Leaders Program). This program helps me learn more about math, reading, and all sorts of things that will help in the future of my life. This is the reason in my opinion I think HSCC is a great place.

I joined the Emerging Leaders Program when I was in the ninth grade. It was everything that I had expected and then some. We have gone on a lot of field trips to different colleges and trade schools that were very informative and helpful. Also we have had alot of guest speakers from all over the community that have been very interesting. I have learned a ton of different things like how to write a resume, interviewing techniques and even ideas on how to run your own business. I wish I could have joined earlier. This experience with Emerging Leaders Program has really made me a better individual and student.

The Emergling Leaders Program at the HSCC found me through McKeesport Area High School. I knew absolutly nothing about this program so i decided to fill the application out and visit the building to learn what this program was all about. Once entering the interview and finding out that this program helps youth with getting a part time job whether it be a Counsler in Training(C.I.T.) or obtaining a job within your community. They also help you with how to WOW the employer that is interviewing for the job and how to write the "perfect" resume. I have been a participate of the Emerging Leaders Program(ELP) for two years now and its definatly worth my while. We have visited Washington, DC and have had speakers all over our community come in and talk to us about different opporunites that we have. ELP also helps you prepare yourself for college with applications to landing your interview.

The Human Services Center is a great place to learn new things and have a good exprience here. I am currently and Counselor in Training for the after-school program helping children with homework and doing activities with them and in Emerging Leaders Program where I learn about careers and college. Overall, this is a great place to check out.

I met Dave Coplan through a networking recommendation from Jennifer Ross at PANO and eventually wound-up doing contract work for HSCC. Dave understands that for a nonprofit to achieve excellence, you need to strategically and relentlessly advocate for the people you serve. I am impressed by HSCC's ability to diversify and expand their fundraising, develop a dedicated staff and harness the power of an engaged Board. But most of all, I'm impressed by the work that HSCC is doing with Mon Valley's youth. As someone with an extensive background in youth programming, the Emerging Leaders Program is simply among the best that I've seen, HSCC recognizes that their work isn't just about addressing the needs of the people they serve, but also about enabling them to envision and achieve a better life.

I joined the HSCC board as an intern after being wowed by Dave Coplan's charisma & presentation during a "speed boarding" session. My board orientation was the most thorough orientation I've ever received... ever (including new student orientation, new job orientation, welcome to the resort orientation, here’s your retirement package orientation)! Dave & Alicia consistently made themselves available for questions, and were generous with their praise and direction for board service. HSCC excels at sharing their stories of success and positive impact on the communities of the Mon Valley.

I am a first year board member for Human Services Center Corp. Having represented various companies (public and private) and been involved with several other organizations (non profit and for profit), I can honestly say that I have not seen an organization run as efficiently or effectively as HSCC. The informative and transparent nature of the management is a delight for a board member; the focus and passion of the organization is an asset to its constituents. I am proud to be associated with HSCC.

I was an employee of the Human Service Center and can't say enough about the opportunities given employees to excel and to expand their expertise in the social services field. Not to mention the "family feel" of being part of the HSCC family.

The HSCC excels at meeting the needs of its clients and the communities it serves. At least as important, it is an outstanding developer of talent which continues to spread throughout the region improving the capactiy of other nonprofits.

Dave Coplan's presentation on the HSCC was very interesting. I was very impressed to hear of all the opportunities HSCC offers to young people and old alike. I was very impressed with the entire speech.

I have had the opportunity to work with the staff of HSCC on a variety of different occasions. One of my favorite examples is when they readily agreed to connect with a local company to provide their employees with a way to give back and help others. The HSCC staff was ready to accept their help, bring resources to youth and families that truly needed it, and to make the holiday brighter for both groups!

I met Dave Coplan when I talked with him about increasing the effectiveness of his GNP profile. He was an intelligent, engaging, highly capable, dedicated individual that deeply cares for HSCC and the well being of the people of Turtle Creek and the Mon Valley. Congratulations on making 40 under 40 Dave!

This organization excels in organizing working groups to focus on tasks to support communities in the Mon Valley. Its structure of using working groups which address core issues enables the organization to remain focused and consistent with its mission.

My first professional work experience was an internship with the Human Services Center Corporation. Perhaps the most valuable lesson learned is the importance of the planning process. Thinking through goals and objectives to solve problems and reach goals, then developing leadership skills to implement the plan, are useful tools no matter where life takes you. The Human Services Center is a unique organization that serves many people successfully due to excellent administrative leadership. I’m grateful for my experience there.

I recently joined the Human Services Center as an AmeriCorps Health Corps volunteer. With little prior experience in this field, I was immediately welcomed by the entire team. In the short time I have worked with this organization, I've been able to benefit from countless opportunities for professional and personal growth.

I have been an intern with the Human Services Center since May of this year. It has been a wonderful learning experience and very influential in expanding my knowledge of social services.

Dave Coplan came to conduct our Fayette County Human Service Council Retreat. I have been in administration for many years and found Dave to be one of the best facilitators in planning that I have met. He moved us along in a very timely fashion and was able to help all voices to be heard. He completed the work at home and sent us a very full and on target plan.

An outstanding organization, dedicated to meeting the multifaced needs of the community it serves. Innovative programming, dedicated staff, contagious enthusiasm for their mission.

While attending my first Mon-Valley Providers Council Quarterly Meeting, I realized several things immediately: 1. what a wealth of information was available to me and my students 2. how bright their Director was 3. how utterly clueless I was 4. how great the needs were in the Mon Valley 5. how collaborative the MVPC organization was 6. why being involved was a win-win for me, my students and the local communities that I serve I have not regretted one minute of the time that I have committed to the activities and services provided by my CCAC, South Campus/MVPC collaboration. (well there was that one time at the Century III Mall during the Super Expo when I was hit on by several VERY senior citizens!!! BUT it provided me with a great story!! And NOW I am a one of those senior citizens)

The HSCC has afforded me invaluable experiences to grow professionally. I first began working with the HSCC as an intern during my senior year at the University of Pittsburgh. I gained amazing first-hand experience writing grants, coordinating events, conducting planning studies and developing needs-driven, quality programming, such as the Youth LIFE after school program. During graduate school, I interned for several other organizations, but would always make time to do additional work for the HSCC, including facilitating studies about fundraising events, contributing to legislative agendas, and assisting in raising money for its endowment campaign. After I graduated with my Masters Degrees (MSW, MPA) from the University of Pittsburgh, I served a one-year term for HSCC's Board of Directors through Leadership Pittsburgh's Leadership OnBoard program. Each program and project of the HSCC is guaranteed to be high-quality, which is why I continue to donate money to and volunteer for the HSCC. You may have seen me helping to build a playground in the HSCC's courtyard, serving meals at its 25th Anniversary, or walking for the HSCC team at the annual HIV/AIDS Awareness Walk. I am proud to be associated with this organization and look forward to continuing to give back for years to come!

For as long as I've been associated with the Human Services Center, I've been amazed by just how committed the organization is to making sure that there are no wrong doors for accessing service. When I was an intern, we would get phone calls from folks looking for services we didn't provide and my first inclination was to say, "sorry, we don't do that". But the director at the time made it clear to me that that wasn't good enough, and that we should always make sure that, at the very least, folks left us headed in the right direction for services. This constant commitment to the individuals we saw every day, whether or not they were part of our core service population has always impressed me and been a lesson to me in my professional life.

The Human Services Center Corporation in Turtle Creek is a tremendous asset to the entire region. They are constantly on the cutting edge when it comes to innovative ways of helping people. I started as a volunteer with them way back in the mid 90's. I worked in their toys for tots program and food pantry. Now as a professional in Workforce Development I interact with them on several levels and I'm constantly amazed. I have to tell a funny story about Dave that illustrates a point. One summer many many years ago we were all at a picnic together. There must have been a total of 6 of us playing a wiffle ball game. It was the start of an inning and Dave was on my team. While we were in the feild Dave whispered to me that he felt a triple play coming on. I'm like sure ok, I didn’t believe him. Well the next batter hit the ball and I can't remember how it all happened but next thing you know we had made a triple play and we were up again. How many times have you ever seen a triple play in a wiffle ball game? But Dave knew, he believed he could do it. This example has always stood as a testimony to the power of Dave. He and his team perform triple plays everyday with the ease and self assuredness of that summer day many years ago. Keep up the good work and it’s always been an honor to be on your team.

I started as an intern at the Center while I was working on my undergraduate degree at Pitt. I became a full time employee in May of 2002 and served as the first Youth Programs Director and worked to support the Youth LIFE Program and the KOOL Summer Program. It was an incredible experience! After receiving my Masters Degree from the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs at Pitt, I moved on from my position at the Center to serve as the Senior Vice President of Development and Marketing at Goodwill Industries. Recently, I have transitioned into a position with The Foundation for Enhancing Communities. I learned so much as an intern at the Center about community organizing, grant writing and budgeting. It is an excellent resource for the community and for the students who have the opportunity to grow and learn.

In the past year that i've been in this program ELP at the Human Services Center have learned alot. It has taught me to explore different careers and makes me look forward to my future. I have learned better communication skills. I always improved my writing skills. It also made me explore different colleges and makes me want to attend college after high school. In this past year i got my first job and if it wasn't for elp I dont think I would of even been able to get the job. This program is the best thing for teens. THANK YOU ELP.

I have learned alot in HSCC. I have learned about all sorts of jobs, how to fill out applications, and lots about having a good interview. I like working on the computers on the websites, they teach alot about jobs and gives you a good idea of what you are trying to pursue. We also went on field trips, which I enjoyed. One in particular was to a pirate game, most of the people I didn't know, so I got to meet new people and have fun. HSCC has overall helped me all around and will help me in the future as well.

I have worked with the HSC in a variety of capacities for the last nine years. They are an incredible organization, which works to serve both the needs of the non-profit member agencies, as well as the needs of the community. The Executive Director takes great pains to teach his bevy of interns the skills they need to operate in the non-profit world, as well as promoting leadership in the next generation. He is free with his advice and is willing to go the extra mile (and show a little leg) in order to raise funds, awareness or create new programming. The staff are extremely dedicated to serving the needs of the member agencies and the community, and that shows in their dedication and long hours.

The Human Services Center Corporation in Turtle Creek, PA is an awesome program to me because it has helped me in so many ways. I've been a participant in the youth programs they provide here for 6 yrs now. I have met so many new and awesome people that have all helped point me in the right direction. The programs here have provided me with help with everything from homework to searching for colleges. The Staff and students that attend the programs here are all just wonderful people who have taught me so much. I really enjoy attending all the wonderful programs and events they have to offer.

The HSCC provides different resources such as ELP and a after school program for young kids. I have learned a lot of things by coming to ELP. It helps the community by providing different programs. The things I have learned about are different jobs and opportunities. ELP is very exciting because we do fun thing like going on field trips and taking tour very cool places.

I have been attending the ELP (Emerging Leaders Program) for about a year. In those years, I was able to excel in my school work, thanks to the program that is run by the HSCC. Not only was I able to improve my grades in school, I was also able to earn volunteer hours for my senior class project. It has been a priviledge to meet many young teenages who have similar goals in life, to be succesful. There were indeed many different knowledgable and entertaining field trips, speeches, etc.

The Human Services Center excels in working with kids and young adults. They have provided many outstanding opportunities that many people have not had the chance to do. They provide care for children and a job readiness program for young adults. Both of their programs are very good. Visiting colleges, different cities, and getting visits from important people is always fun and a very interesting way to learn about different things.

The Human Services Center's Emerging Leaders Program is a great program to help you prepare for your furture career. Whether it be basic interveiw skills to making your resume the best. this program also prepares you for college and encourages you to be a great success. One thing that i enjoy most is that if you have a problem or just need to talk to someone the staff is always there and are ready to listen. They also open up windows of opportunities for you. The opportunities could include volunteering for the HIV/aids walk or working as a C.I.T.(Counsler In Training). You also get the chance of meeting great new people and walking away at the end of the day with a new friendship.

I think that the Human Services Center is a great asset to the community. It helps so many people in so many ways. It helps people without food and kids get along in life. I have learned a lot of important skills from the teachers and staff from this institute. The staff are very involved and passionite about what they do are are very eager to help with any problem.

I have worked with and for other non-profits and have been impressed with HSCC because they seem to focus on the quality of their programs, they are very knowledgeable about the communities they serve, and they stay focused on their mission.

I started as an undergraduate intern with the Human Service's Center in 2004 and am now the Youth Development Director. Every day provides me opportunities to learn and grow both personally and professionally. I truly feel like a valuable member of a championship team. As a young professional, I have benefited from working with some of the most talented individuals in the field. I am so proud to be associated with the Human Services Center and can rate it as a five star organization with out reserve!

The after school program is fantastic and one of many great services offered at the Westinghouse Valley Human Services Center.

The Human Services Center Corporation is one of the premiere human services organizations in the county and possibly the state. The staff is well organized, professional, kind, and genuinely concerned with increasing the well being of the consumers they serve in the 37 communities that compose the Mon Valley. Working with Dave Coplan is a great honor for me in that he is a highly knowledgeable, passionate, and phenomenal teacher. As a student intern, I feel very fortunate to be surrounded by a talented staff who works as a team at all times. I learn much on a daily basis in that my job as a program associate is very hands on. I get to see the effects of our programs and policies on a daily basis, and can say that they do make a difference in the Mon Valley.

It has been a pleasure to work with the MVPC Executive Director, Dave Coplan, over the last several years. We have been printing The Communicator from our presses at The Daily News in McKeesport, PA for several years now and I have dealt with Mr. Coplan personally. Dave and his staff are very good at what they do. Never have I had any issues about procedure in which we receive their copy (which is pre-written by his staff), or payment for the print production. His news copy is always provided to us in a timely manner in which we have plenty of time to print the product. Dave is very friendly and professional at the same time. My compliments to Dave Coplan and his staff for this unique cooperation. I look forward to the continued partnership we have servicing the MVPC and The Communicator. Mark Russell Graphic Arts Department & Pre-Press Foreman The Daily News (Part of the Trib Total Media Group)

I have been working with the HSCC staff as a member of the McKeesport Collaborative for several years. I've kept close ties with this group because of their passion and dedication to providing good services to the women and their families of our community.

I had the pleasure of working with HSCC, their affiliates and their staff as a part of Jackson/Clark Partners' work on the GPNP 2007 pilot Voter Engagement Initiative, Everybody VOTE. Dave and the staff jumped ALL OVER this work, supplying some of our best practice programs and strongest support for the initiative. Their Voter Event Breakfast is a winner - I'd strongly recommend folks check it out on Wednesday, November 7 for an idea on a great way to encourage voter participation with your clients and members.

I am a recently elected board member, so naturally I am favorably impressed by HSCC. But my positive impressions of this organization date back many years. To me, HSCC has always been an exemplar for how a relatively small, grass roots organization can effectively utilize "big time" management and governance methods to achieve its goals ... building an endowment, strategically managing its portfolio of programs and finanances, serving as an advocate for its clients and the nonprofit sector as a whole, engaging the community in its mission, and securing the confidence of major funders. It is impressive. Kevin Kearns

HSCC has never lost sight of its focus: how to best leverage its resources to meet the needs of the people it serves. It is an extraordinarily well-run organization that I am proud to serve as a board member.

Excellence. We use this word all of the time but few really embrace the essence of excellence. I believe that the HSCC really embodies excellence in service. I have known Dave Coplan for many years and more recently gotten to know Alicia Andrews. I consider it an honor and a pleasure to work with both of these partners. I believe they look critically at social problems and service provision and strive to achieve excellent programming and community engagement.