Several years ago, MaryBeth Emerich, an IT supervisor at FirstEnergy, took her autistic twins to an inclusive fitness class offered by the IM ABLE Foundation in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania. The welcoming environment and supportive staff left a lasting impression on her. “I went there thinking this is just not going to work, and I’m just setting my boys up for failure,” Emerich said. “But in the long run, I was setting them up for a long-term purpose of being a part of a community that will always be there to support them.”
This experience led Emerich to join the board of directors at the IM ABLE Foundation. The organization aims to remove barriers for individuals with intellectual or physical challenges by providing access to tailored programs and equipment.
Emerich is also involved with THRIVE, one of FirstEnergy’s Employee Business Resource Groups that promotes an inclusive workplace for employees with disabilities. Additionally, she collaborated with the FirstEnergy Foundation to secure a $10,000 grant for IM ABLE’s “Operation Lead from the Front” program. This initiative pairs military veterans with individuals who have disabilities as workout buddies.
Employees from FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Electric Company (Met-Ed) frequently volunteer with IM ABLE. Recently, seven Met-Ed employees assisted at the IM ABLE Games held at Reading Regional Airport on September 21. The event featured various competitions such as an obstacle course and a duathlon.
Kristen Conrad, another FirstEnergy employee, participated in the duathlon despite having a stress fracture. She described it as “a very humbling experience” alongside athletes facing significant physical challenges yet displaying determination and joy.
Conrad expressed her commitment to future participation: “It was an absolutely wonderful event,” she said. “I’ll do it every year if I can. It was so inspiring.”
For more information about FirstEnergy’s community initiatives visit their website.
