Posted on January 20, 2026
– The Kahlert Foundation Will Be Honored at Penn-Mar’s 34th Annual Gala –
January 20, 2026
Baltimore – Penn-Mar Human Services, the region’s leading provider of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), has awarded its 2026 Distinguished Humanitarian Award to The Kahlert Foundation. Started in 1991, the Foundation is one of the largest private foundations in Maryland and Utah, two states that have played a close role in the lives of the Kahlert family. Penn-Mar CEO Greg Miller will present the Distinguished Humanitarian Award to The Kahlert Foundation at Penn-Mar’s 34th Annual Gala, on March 7, 2026 at the Marriott Owings Mills Metro Centre in Owings Mills, Maryland.
The Award recognizes the Foundation’s extraordinary philanthropic leadership and broad multi-region impact. Rooted in the legacy of William E. Kahlert, Greg Kahlert’s father and co-founder of Maryland-based global manufacturer EVAPCO, the Foundation has grown into a deeply impactful family foundation, distributing more than $200 million to over 350 nonprofits since its inception.
“The Kahlert Foundation’s philanthropic goals are perfectly aligned with our mission to help others Live Courageously,” said Greg Miller, CEO of Penn-Mar Human Services. “From advancing education and healthcare, to championing causes that uplift individuals and families, The Foundation’s legacy of philanthropy reflects Penn-Mar’s mission to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live their best lives, and we are honored to recognize their tireless efforts.”
In addition to supporting hundreds of nonprofits throughout Maryland and Utah, the Kahlert Foundation also has a proud history of supporting Penn-Mar, awarding $834,000 to the nonprofit since 2016, including a 2025 gift of $400,000, its largest-ever single gift to the nonprofit. These recent funds will be equally divided: $200,000 will be used for a challenge match at the upcoming Gala appeal to directly fund Penn-Mar’s growth and expansion in Carroll County, while the other $200,000 will be utilized for Penn-Mar’s highly successful Career Ladders Program, an educational initiative designed to provide Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) with professional training, skill development, and career advancement opportunities.
“The Kahlert Foundation is incredibly honored to receive this recognition,” shared Greg Kahlert, President & CEO. “Since its inception, our goal has been to invest in organizations that advance our communities and support our nonprofit partners to expand and enhance their critical work. We are humbled to join the ranks of past Distinguished Humanitarian Honorees and are grateful for the opportunity to highlight our Foundation’s mission alongside the mission of Penn-Mar.”
Media can contact Roger Mecca at roger@vitaminisgood.com to set up an interview or learn more about Penn-Mar, The Kahlert Foundation, and this significant news.
About Penn-Mar Human Services
Penn-Mar Human Services is a nonprofit that supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to Live Courageously, whether that’s securing a job, being an active member of their community, building independence, or developing new relationships. Penn-Mar accomplishes this by supporting people on their own unique personal journeys. Founded in 1981, Penn-Mar operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in northern Maryland and southern Pennsylvania. They support 400 adults with disabilities daily through an array of customizable services. www.penn-mar.org.
About The Kahlert Foundation
The Kahlert Foundation provides grants to non-profit organizations to improve the quality of life and well-being of the community in the areas of health care, education, veteran organizations, youth programs, and human services. In 2026 , more than $30 million will be gifted to hundreds of charities in the states of Maryland and Utah.
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