Board of directors

Michelle “Michie”  Merryman is a 1977  graduate of California University of Pennsylvania, now Penn West. She was with Bedford Somerset DBHS  for 38 years, retiring in 2021 as an administrative case manager. She and her spouse of 48 years, Russ, have  reside in Bakersville for 46 years. They have one adult son, Mitch, and daughter-in-law, Alissa.

Michie is a charter member of the Somerset County Suicide Prevention Task Force.  Since retiring she has become involved with the League for Human  Decency. The League is a group of like-minded individuals who join together to support needs within the community. One of the projects involved Open Rhodes 2 Recovery and that’s how Michie learned to know Kelly Rhodes. When asked to be a member of the board, Michie agreed because she feels strongly in the work that OR2R is doing.

In her free time, Michie enjoys day trips, reading, and spending time with family and friends. 

Virginia, a resident of Somerset County since 2004, is a Certified Public Accountant (inactive), BA and MSM. She is a member of The League for Human Decency, founder of the local  FFFF recycling program, and Treasurer of OR2R's Board of Director's. She has three children and six grandchildren. 

 Melanie is a dedicated community leader, banking professional, and proud wife and mother. She is married to her husband, Jarett, and together they are raising their daughter, Bella, alongside their beloved miniature schnauzer, Bandit.

Professionally, Melanie serves as a Personal Banking Officer at 1st Summit Bank, where she is passionate about helping individuals and families achieve their financial goals. Beyond her career, she is deeply committed to making a positive impact throughout Somerset County. She currently serves on the boards of Open Rhodes 2 Recovery, Somerset Inc., and Somerset County Habitat for Humanity. Additionally, she chairs several beloved community events, including Light Up Somerset, Fire and Ice, and Chalk the Block.

In her free time, Melanie enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, getting lost in a good book, and binge-watching true crime shows. Her dedication to both her community and her loved ones reflects her passion for service, connection, and making a difference.

Tony is a dedicated Peer Recovery Specialist with over three and a half years of experience supporting individuals on their recovery journeys.  Tony holds multiple peer support credentials, including Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS), Certified Family Recovery Specialist (CFRS), Pennsylvania Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PCPRSS), and Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS). Through his work, he is committed to meeting people where they are in their recovery process, offering encouragement, advocacy, and practical support tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals.  His approach focuses on empowerment, hope, respect, and helping individuals achieve sustainable recovery and personal growth.  Tony is passionate about helping others discover their strengths, overcome barriers, and build meaningful lives in recovery. His commitment to peer support and recovery advocacy continues to make a positive impact on the individuals and communities he serves. 

The Board of Directors meets on the last Tuesday of each month at 3:00 PM. Meetings are open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend. We welcome individuals who are interested in learning more about our mission, sharing ideas, and supporting recovery efforts throughout our community.