Posted on September 25, 2025
By Kathleen McMahon, Penn-Mar Parent & Advocate
As a former teacher, I have cherished many profound experiences and found great fulfillment in connecting with my students and making a difference in their lives. I am also the mother of two incredible children who have taught me invaluable lessons and remain the joy of my life.
Over 10 years ago I retired with my husband Ed to the Eastern Shore. We enjoy living in a quiet community during this peaceful point in our lives and know how lucky we are.
Recently, we’ve been reflecting on the support that has carried us through the years, and we are deeply grateful for how it has given us the chance to build this life we love. The journey, however, has not been without its challenges.
My two children, David, 48, and Kara, 46, were both born with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). As a divorced mother, I needed to provide for my family and was fortunate to build a career in education as a teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent of Baltimore County Schools.
I first encountered Penn-Mar Human Services through their summer program for children with IDD, which David and Kara enjoyed immensely.
Both children also attended classes at Towson University. David worked at the University Recycling Center during his studies and remained there for four more years. He has since moved on to other successful employment opportunities and has become quite financially savvy.
After turning 21, David and Kara were accepted into Penn-Mar’s Day Program, and soon after, I started looking for long-term housing opportunities for them. Since they had always lived outside the city, I wanted to find a place where they could feel safe, cared for, and happy. Penn-Mar was clearly the best match.
Today, Penn-Mar is their life.
David and Kara now live happily in Penn-Mar community housing, just a mile apart on the same road in Maryland.
Every other weekend they visit us on the Eastern Shore, where David enjoys his jet ski, sailboat, and riding tractor. While he and my husband are out on the water or tending the lawn on our three-acre property, my daughter and I spend time at the local farmer’s market, work on puzzles, and enjoy quiet moments together.
But perhaps what warms my heart the most is, after their visits, both children eagerly anticipate returning to their Penn-Mar family and activities.
Penn-Mar has blessed our family in countless ways. The amazing Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who help our children achieve meaningful lives are truly the most kind, selfless, and caring individuals any parent could hope for. They never fail to keep us continually updated on our children’s well-being and achievements.
From my days as a single parent, I made it a priority to support Penn-Mar financially, even when resources were limited. Over time, I set a personal goal to someday provide a legacy gift as well.
When my husband and I recently updated our will, we made sure to provide for his son’s family as well as my two children. We also chose to leave David and Kara’s portion of our estate to Penn-Mar — a decision made from deep gratitude for the unwavering support we’ve received and in recognition of the lasting impact Penn-Mar has had on our family.
Most importantly, we are comforted knowing that, even after we are gone, these resources will help sustain Penn-Mar’s mission and its remarkable team members who are making a positive difference every day for families like ours.
The Penn-Mar Legacy Society honors individuals and families who include Penn-Mar in their estate plans. By doing so, they help ensure that people with disabilities, and the families who love them, will have the same opportunities and support for generations to come. Joining is simple: you can name The Penn-Mar Foundation as a beneficiary in your will, trust, insurance policy, retirement plan, or other assets. You may choose to remain anonymous or allow us to recognize your generosity. To learn more, download our Planned Giving Guide.