Penn-Mar

Housing Transition Project is Reshaping Penn-Mar’s Residential Program

ggorham — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 14:58:34 +0000

Single-story homes create an ideal setting for aging in place.

By Jackie Stevens
Penn-Mar Chief Operating Officer

A 2024 U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study puts life expectancy at 76.5 years for men and 81.4 years for women.

About 1 in 9 Americans age 65 and older are living with dementia.¹ People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) may also experience dementia as they age, with some research showing an increased risk among people with intellectual disabilities.² The risk is especially high for people with Down syndrome, with estimates suggesting that 50% or more will develop dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease as they age.³

This need is especially important at Penn-Mar. We currently provide residential services to 190 people, including 65 who are aged 60 or older and 40 between the ages of 50 and 60. For many people who receive residential services from Penn-Mar, these homes and communities remain an important part of their lives for decades. Our responsibility is to make sure their homes can continue to meet their needs as they age.

As people age and their cognitive or mobility needs change, Penn-Mar is reshaping its residential program so they can continue living in familiar communities, surrounded by people they know and trust.

An example rendering of a one-story house.

Penn-Mar began studying these trends eight years ago, looking closely at which community homes could continue to meet residents’ needs as they grew older. That planning led to the Housing Transition Project, formally launched in 2021.

Through the project, Penn-Mar is gradually replacing two-story homes with accessible, one-story properties that better support people as they age. Proceeds from the sales of the existing homes will be used to purchase accessible one-story properties, and we will also build new homes, as needed, to meet the demand.

All of this is to ensure that the people we support will be able to continue living safely, independently, and comfortably in their own homes and communities with the support team they have come to know and rely on.

Penn-Mar owns all of its residential homes, giving us greater flexibility to modify or replace properties as residents’ needs change.

Penn-Mar has adapted existing homes whenever possible, even converting dining rooms and offices into first-floor bedrooms so housemates could continue living together. But as cognitive and mobility needs change, modifications can only go so far. The Housing Transition Project identified 16 two-story homes, seven in Pennsylvania and nine in Maryland to be replaced or reconfigured as accessible, one-story residences.

A progress photo of the one-story (plus a basement for storage only) house in White Hall, MD.

Just in the past two years, we have sold four homes to help us purchase one-story homes. In July, we broke ground at a home in White Hall, MD, the eighth of the 17 homes on the House Transition Project list. When it is completed in December, it will be a fully accessible single-story home (with a basement for storage only) where residents will benefit from its open floor plan for wheelchairs and walkers, a smart kitchen with assistive technology, walk-in showers, and wide doorways.

Significant changes in the real estate market mean that finding the right property is more challenging today than when Penn-Mar expanded its residential program in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Homes in Baltimore and York County are significantly more expensive, with many priced between $600,000-700,000, not including the tens-of-thousands of dollars needed for accessibility upgrades and to meet licensing requirements. New construction projects are also difficult. It took 18 months to get the necessary permits to put a shovel in the ground at Shane Valley.

Despite the many challenges along the way, we have reached the halfway point of our 17 home transitions.

Through every transition, Penn-Mar’s priority is to preserve what matters most: the relationships and sense of home people have built over time. Their needs may change as they grow older, but that shouldn’t mean leaving behind the people and community that are part of their lives.

The Housing Transition Project is helping make sure their homes can change with them.

Footnotes:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Signs and Symptoms of Dementia.” August 14, 2024.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation. IDD and Dementia. July 2015.
National Institute on Aging. “Alzheimer’s Disease in People With Down Syndrome.”

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October 2026 HEART Award Winners

nvenn — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 11:00:00 +0000

The Penn-Mar HEART Award program recognizes team members whose passion and performance leave the mark of their own legacy through exceptional demonstrations of Honesty, Excellence, Advocacy, Respect, and Teamwork. We are proud to announce our latest round of HEART Award Winners! Join us in congratulating these extraordinary team members.

These paragraphs are shortened versions of the original nominations.

Christina Burkhardt, nominated by Nicole Ridenour and Emily Finnegan

Christina Burkhardt received two nominations that show how willingly she shares her time and knowledge. When another program needed help, she spent months supporting its supervisor, strengthening practices, and bringing the program into regulatory compliance while managing her own responsibilities. She brought that same follow-through to a person whose ongoing challenges needed closer attention. Christina worked with his support team, pursued additional medical testing, and continued asking questions until new diagnoses helped explain his needs. She then coordinated appointments and prepared team members to provide more informed support. Helping someone live courageously starts with taking the time to understand them, especially when answers are difficult to find. Christina carries that responsibility into her relationships with the people we support and her colleagues, helping others feel better prepared and supported in their work.

Jonathan Collins, nominated by Callie Miller

Jonathan Collins has a way of helping people feel comfortable, whether through a shared joke, a word of encouragement, or his calm presence when things are difficult. When the person he supports needed hospital care, Jonathan stayed by his side and continued supporting him at home during recovery. He brought both the reassurance of a familiar relationship and the careful attention needed to help his team provide consistent care. His coworkers see that same generosity in his willingness to answer questions, share information, and lend a hand. Penn-Mar’s mission to support people to live courageously includes being there when life feels uncertain. Jonathan offers that support with patience, warmth, and respect, while still finding room for laughter. He knows what the person behind the care needs and helps him feel valued through it all.

Dawn Findley, nominated by Joyce Silfee

When the local library’s ”Club Friendship“ was at risk of ending because of limited staffing, Dawn Findley stepped up to keep it going. She took the lead and welcomed people from agencies across Carroll County, preserving a place where they could enjoy activities, learn, and build friendships. Dawn understands how much those connections matter. She also customized a communication device for a gentleman she supports, helping him identify and greet others. With her encouragement and practice, he began initiating greetings on his own, proud to be the one starting a conversation.

Dawn, thank you for your leadership in helping the people you support be a true part of our community and for shining a positive light on Penn-Mar and our mission.

Joseph Fockler, nominated by Denise Lessner and Kristi Strausbaugh

Joseph Fockler takes people’s interests seriously and enjoys helping them see where those interests can lead. For one gentleman, that has meant practicing magic, visiting a local magic shop, and performing for others at the Day Program. Another person’s love of trains inspired “Train Thursday,” bringing people together to build tracks and share their enthusiasm. Joe has also helped the Penn-Mar Band grow from two participants into a group that welcomes anyone interested. These experiences give people opportunities to develop a skill, contribute something of their own, and build relationships around what they enjoy. That is Penn-Mar’s mission taking shape in everyday life, with people choosing what matters to them and finding the confidence to share it. Joe’s encouragement helps make room for each person’s talents and the possibilities that come with them.

Abigail Ford, nominated by Jennifer Hisey

Abby truly embodies Penn-Mar’s commitment to person-centered support through her intentional, engaging approach with the person she supports. When a gentleman she supports started talking about chicken, Abby followed his interest. Together, they explored recipes, and he chose Chicken Alfredo. She encouraged him to find the ingredients while shopping and work through the recipe, doing as much as he could independently. He proudly served his meal to others and, the following week, was ready to make chicken pot pie. Abby hopes to help him create a cookbook with photos of his accomplishments. This is what supporting someone to live courageously can look like: the chance to make choices, try something unfamiliar, and discover what you can do. Through her patience and encouragement, Abby helped a simple interest become a source of confidence, connection, and pride.

Kelly Gillispie, nominated by Tina Chan Sweenie

Kelly Gillispie saw a deadline approaching and knew people were counting on help. When Penn-Mar’s longtime accountant retired just before tax time, she reached out to her cousin’s accounting firm, Sturgill & Associates in Westminster. That connection led to the firm completing taxes for people we support in Maryland free of charge, addressing a pressing need and easing the burden on the team. Kelly made sure Development knew about the contribution and invited the firm to learn about Penn-Mar’s Golf Classic. Kelly recognized a need for the people we support and our team, and used her relationships to find a solution. The gracious, welcoming care she shows people at Penn-Mar reached into the community and gave a new partner a meaningful way to help.

Janine Harris, nominated by Nadine Gaetani

Janine Harris knows how much courage an everyday step can take. A gentleman she supports once needed someone beside him to move through much of the Day Program because of anxiety. Janine patiently built a relationship with him, offering encouragement as he became more comfortable navigating on his own. Each independent trip is something she celebrates, making sure he knows his progress matters. That attention carries into the activities she plans around people’s interests and the holidays she has worked so those away from family could enjoy a special day. She also makes time to encourage newer team members. Janine helps people live courageously by building the trust that makes trying feel possible. Her pride in their accomplishments reminds them that their efforts are noticed and that someone believes in what they can do.

Jennifer Hisey, nominated by Dawn Allen

Jennifer Hisey’s coworkers call her a visionary because she often sees a way to make something happen before anyone else does. Her question is simple: “How can we make this possible?” When Jen organized an art heist mystery at the Day Program, she brought Day and Residential team members into the fun, recruited an unlikely “thief,” and gave the people we support a mystery to solve together. She also brought Medieval Times to the gym, complete with costumes, games, and a royal coronation. Behind those creative ideas is Jen’s belief that everyone deserves opportunities to participate, explore, and belong. She puts Penn-Mar’s mission into practice by opening up new experiences and encouraging others to help make them happen. Her enthusiasm gives people a reason to join in and helps teams discover what they can accomplish together.

Gerald McKinnon, nominated by Nicole Zeigler

After more than 50 years in the field, Gerald McKinnon still takes the time to learn what matters to each person he supports. Whether they are heading out to fish or enjoying another favorite activity, he builds relationships that help people feel known and valued. He also notices what could make everyday life better. When a table was damaged, Gerald refinished it and created a protective cover with a lip to better support the people using it. His coworkers receive that same care through check-ins, reassurance during long shifts, and help when they need it. Supporting people begins with understanding them and being someone they can count on. Gerald brings that commitment to his work in thoughtful, practical ways, showing how much it matters to keep paying attention to one another.

Natina Newsome, nominated by Tina Chan Sweenie

Natina Newsome saw a year’s worth of photos and an opportunity to celebrate the people in them. Using her graphic design talents and the free version of Canva, she spent countless hours creating the 2025 PMC Day Learning Center Yearbook. She selected photos, edited content, and designed pages that captured accomplishments, friendships, and shared experiences. The project went well beyond her everyday DSP responsibilities, but Natina wanted to make something people and their families could enjoy. Penn-Mar’s mission comes to life in those pages through people trying new things, expressing themselves, and building relationships. Her work gives families another way to see and celebrate those experiences. With the creativity, humor, and care her teammates know well, Natina created a lasting reminder that each person’s story deserves attention and that there is much to be proud of.

Savannah Couch and Megan Odegaard, nominated by Emily Wingerter

Savannah Couch and Megan Odegaard knew something wasn’t right when a gentleman they supported in employment began experiencing changes in his speech and balance. He lived independently, and his family lived out of state, so understanding what was happening took patience, communication, and a willingness to look beyond his needs at work.

Over several months, Savannah and Megan worked closely with him, his employer, and his family. As possible causes were explored and ruled out, they kept advocating for answers and making sure his health concerns received attention. Their responsibilities focused on employment, but they recognized that his well-being needed a broader circle of support.

An eventual diagnosis of ALS brought difficult news. It also gave him, his family, and his support team a clearer understanding of what was happening and an opportunity to plan for his changing needs. Savannah and Megan helped connect them with Penn-Mar resources and kept his family informed and involved during an uncertain time.

They paid attention, followed through, and helped bring the right people together. Because of their shared commitment, this gentleman and his family had people they could turn to as they faced difficult decisions and prepared for what came next.

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Robert Zerance Retires After Over a Decade of Service on Penn-Mar’s Board

ggorham — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 20:16:16 +0000

“It was an honor to represent the people Penn-Mar supports”

At age four, Robert Zerance was struck by a car, suffered severe brain trauma, and spent 21 days in a coma. Today, he works full-time, holds a fifth-degree black belt in Taekwondo, and earned his red belt in Kenpo Karate. In July, he retired after 14 years of service on the Penn-Mar Human Services Board, where he was the first person supported by Penn-Mar with an intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) to serve on the board.

Robert’s life has been shaped by challenges, some of which were unexpected and some that he deliberately pursued.

He spent eight years living year-round at The Benedictine School in Ridgely, Maryland, where he began to envision the life he wanted and develop the skills that would help him overcome obstacles.

Robert moved into a Penn-Mar community home in 1997 at age 21. For the past 19 years, he has worked five days a week at Graul’s Market in Hereford, MD.

Robert is bold and adventurous. “I have no fear in me whatsoever,” he said. He loves rollercoasters and has experienced the thrill of skydiving five times, flown in a hot air balloon, and ridden in a helicopter.

He is committed to daily exercise and has become a dedicated martial arts competitor. After earning a fifth-degree black belt in Taekwondo, Robert moved to a studio in Shrewsbury, PA to study Kenpo Karate, a practical self-defense discipline that combines Chinese kung fu and Japanese karate. In just two years, Robert earned a red belt, placing him three belts away from becoming a black belt.

David Muikia is the Residential Supervisor at Robert’s community home and has known Robert for the past three years. He describes him as “a gentleman with good character” who is kind and empathetic toward everyone.

When Penn-Mar CEO Greg Miller was looking for a person supported by Penn-Mar to serve on the Penn-Mar Human Services Board, Robert was an obvious choice. Confident, articulate, and committed to Penn-Mar’s mission, Robert went on to serve for 14 years, bringing his own perspective and lived experience to the board. At his final meeting in July, he received an engraved crystal memento honoring his service, and his fellow board members recognized him for his decade of service and contributions.

“When Greg asked me to join the board, I was humbled that he saw value in me,” Robert said. “He said he was impressed with my devotion to Penn-Mar, how I always wanted the best for the organization, and was involved in a lot of things. He also thought I was a good listener.”

Board Chair Beth Pitts-Madonna said Robert brought an important perspective to the board.

“It’s critically important that the people most directly impacted by our work have a voice in shaping our organization’s future. Robert’s board service brought something no one else could bring: his own lived experience as a person supported by Penn-Mar. His perspective ensured that every decision we made was grounded in our mission and the needs of the people we support,” Beth said.

Robert was proud to give his time to Penn-Mar and took his responsibility as a board member seriously. He enjoyed participating in conversations about Penn-Mar’s future but felt it was time to step down. Robert is excited to see the next person supported by Penn-Mar follow in his footsteps and experience what he calls “the honor of serving.”

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Central Penn Business Journal Names Penn-Mar’s Jenn Hobbs 2026 “Forty Under 40” Winner

ggorham — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 20:03:02 +0000

Each year, Central Pennsylvania’s leading business publication, the Central Penn Business Journal (CPBJ), announces it’s “Forty Under 40” award winners, recognizing the region’s emerging leaders under 40 who excel in their careers, give back to their communities, and are reinventing the local business landscape.

This year, for the first time, Penn-Mar’s Chief Development and Marketing Officer, Jenn Hobbs, was named an honoree of the award. But for anyone who works with Jenn, this comes as no surprise.

“What truly sets Jenn apart has always been her ability to deeply understand and share Penn-Mar’s ongoing mission,” says Kathy Rogers, Executive Director of the Penn-Mar Foundation, who hired Jenn in 2017. “Her work as an advocate for our mission and for inclusion of others is exceptional. Jenn is a leader people rely on and want to follow while being a great mentor to other emerging leaders at Penn-Mar and within the nonprofit space.”

Jenn joined the Penn-Mar team as an Associate Director of Development, but over the years, her vision, strategic leadership, and passion for our mission helped her grow into her current role as our Chief Development and Marketing Officer in 2025. Today, she leads efforts to secure critical resources, raise public awareness, and expand services that improve quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“No matter what role I have been called to do, the most important mission has been ensuring that the stories of the people we support are told in respectful, authentic, and powerful ways,” Jenn shares. “Whether I am advocating for disability inclusion and support, showcasing Penn-Mar’s growth and initiatives across two states, or leveraging philanthropy and public awareness to support our mission, the goal is to create a community in which every person has the agency to define their own future.”

Her commitment to service extends well beyond her office hours. Jenn serves on several nonprofit boards, including Action for Kindness and the Carroll Technology & Innovation Council. She also spends nearly every Saturday morning during the summer volunteering at the Hampstead Farmers Market to support local vendors and bring neighbors together.

For Jenn, building strong relationships is the foundation of real community change.

“I believe we all have the opportunity to leave our corner of the world better than we found it,” says Jenn. “The greatest catalyst for that impact is making sure the people we surround ourselves with inspire us, challenge our thinking, and help us grow.”

In her time at Penn-Mar, the organization has seen remarkable growth and achievement, supporting more people than ever before across two states. But along with the success, have come the inevitable obstacles. For Jenn, those challenges are just a natural step on the path toward something greater.

“The most valuable lesson I’ve learned from failure and setbacks is that they are always opportunities to learn and evolve,” Jenn reflects. “Some of my greatest personal and professional growth has come from challenges that didn’t go as planned, and those experiences have taught me that perseverance and perspective are more important than perfection.”

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The Job That Shaped Me: My Time as a DSP

ggorham — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 21:02:26 +0000

How my years as a Direct Support Professional shaped the way I lead today.

National Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week (September 13-19, 2026) is a national observance celebrating the essential contributions of more than 1.3 million DSPs who support millions of people with disabilities nationwide. It’s an opportunity to recognize the dedication of DSPs and raise awareness of the essential work they do.

My wife, Terri, and I were DSPs in the 1980s, and it was the most important experience I’ve ever had.

In college, I knew I wanted to pursue a profession where I could be of service to people. I just didn’t know what form it would take.

Before our first job, Terri and I spent time with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Terri volunteered with Special Olympics, and I had always loved visiting two of my cousins who had disabilities. We had no fear when we started working professionally with the disability population because we just assumed we would find these same positive experiences elsewhere. And we did.

In the spring of my senior year, my family neighbor, Dr. Donald Rabush of McDaniel College, told us about a partnership with Target Community & Educational Services providing community-based services for children who were living in state institutions. Married only a year, we accepted his offer to move into a new Target home in Carroll, pursue our master’s degree, and support three boys with significant disabilities.

One of these boys was Michael James Pitts who would later move into a Penn-Mar home in 2009. I could not have known then how our paths would remain connected. In 2016, his parents, Kay and Jim, established an endowment in his name for the Advancement of Direct Support Professionals. Through it, Penn-Mar created its successful Career Ladders Program, a recruitment and retention strategy that enables DSPs to earn national credentials and commensurate wage enhancements while directly impacting the lives of those we support.

Our work in the Target home gave us an instant family and immersed us in a field that was just beginning to develop. Today, I tell Penn-Mar team members that their role is not to parent the adults they support because they are not working with children. Back then, our situation was different: we supported children with loving parents but also assumed some parental duties, including working with the school systems and making trips to the emergency room for stitches and seizures.

It was a time in our lives when we learned the most about ourselves. The work was demanding, but we considered it an honor. Being DSPs gave Terri and me the chance to reflect on who we were and how we could help others. That experience made me want to lead others in this work and began to shape a bigger question for me: How could I help make this kind of difference for thousands more? I could never have become CEO of Penn-Mar without that experience.

I still miss the hands-on, day-to-day work and problem solving through tears, laughter and everything in between. Those years gave me lasting empathy for our team members. I know how difficult it is when someone calls out and you have to work an extra shift. I understand the job’s many challenges.

While I am proud of what we have built during my tenure as Penn-Mar’s CEO, I am most proud when I see the people we support building lives they have chosen for themselves. Our mission is not measured by the number of houses we operate, or the money raised for our foundation. It’s about helping transform the lives of the people we support.

I will always consider myself a fellow DSP. I understand what this work asks of you, and what it can give back.

During DSP Recognition Week, I hope every DSP at Penn-Mar knows how deeply I respect the work you do. Decades after Terri and I first stepped into that home in Carroll County, I still believe what I learned there: being a DSP is one of the most important jobs anyone can have.

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Leading by Example: Greg Miller Named 2026 ICON Honors Award Winner

ggorham — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 21:00:21 +0000

Great leadership changes lives, and at Penn-Mar, we see this in action every day in how our team supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). We are proud to share that Penn-Mar CEO Greg Miller has been named a 2026 Central Penn Business Journal ICON Honors award winner.

The ICON Honors recognize leaders over the age of 60 who have made a lasting impact on Central Pennsylvania. Honorees are chosen for their executive success, integrity, vision, and long-standing devotion to community service.

Greg’s work at Penn-Mar started in 1988 and across four decades since, his career has grown in tandem with the organization, culminating to the role of President and CEO in 2012. But for Greg, leadership has never been about titles, but about creating opportunities so people can live full and self-directed lives. Whether developing new programs, mentoring staff, or speaking on international panels about inclusive employment, his focus stays fixed on equity and human dignity and setting an example for the entire organization.

A big part of Greg’s leadership style is empowering others to lead and excel at what they do best, without micromanaging and helping others discover what makes them successful. He gives employees the freedom to make decisions and solve problems. When people feel trusted, they take pride in their work and want to succeed and fuel our culture of caring and respect for one another. This approach brings fresh ideas to our programs and helps staff grow into confident leaders.

This award celebrates a career built on service, but it also shines a light on the core values of Penn-Mar. His unwavering commitment continues to inspire our team, the people we support, and our partners to keep pushing for communities that exemplify what it means to Live Courageously.

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A Final Sign-off and a Foundation Built to Last

ggorham — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 20:33:55 +0000

Melanie Szvitich Reflects on Six Rewarding Years of Building Penn-Mar’s Technology Future.

Anyone who contacts Melanie Szvitich after September 11, 2026 will receive an automatic reply saying that she is out of the office… forever! As she retires from her role as Penn-Mar’s Director of Technology, she says that she has “officially traded technology roadmaps, project plans, and data issues for a much more relaxed schedule filled with reading, travel, family and friends, and, of course, time at the beach with my pup, Steele.”

After six years of building a solid technical foundation at Penn-Mar, her retirement is well-earned.

Prior to 2020, Melanie had spent her entire career in the corporate sector, helping organizations use technology to solve problems, work more effectively, and make money.

“For my last job before retirement, I wanted to give back by sharing my corporate experience with a non-profit organization that might not necessarily be able to afford someone with my background,” she explained.

A friend in the field led her to Penn-Mar, and everything seemed to come together.

“When I was asked to create a five-year plan that would build a technical foundation for the future, it was fairly easy. Being people and data oriented, I saw a clear path forward,” she said.

What stood out most to Melanie about moving from the corporate world to the non-profit sector was the people.

“People don’t work at places like Penn-Mar if they don’t care,” she said. “They aren’t necessarily chasing bigger titles or salaries. What’s important to them is making a difference.”

Looking back on her six-plus years at Penn-Mar, Melanie points to four areas that shaped her work and helped prepare the organization for the future:

Modernizing the tech environment. Melanie helped bring Penn-Mar into HIPAA compliance, move systems to the cloud, simplify the technology Penn-Mar uses, and ensure every residential location has reliable broadband internet access.

Empowering people through technology. This is Melanie’s passion and the work she is most proud of. She helped develop Penn-Mar’s enabling technology program, introducing assistive technology (AT), smart home solutions, and digital literacy training. The goal was bigger than simply introducing new technology to promote opportunities. It was about helping team members use these tools in ways that create more independence for the people we support.

Turning data into actionable information. With information spread across multiple systems, Melanie helped build support for bringing that data together so team members could use it to make better decisions. She also secured four years of partial funding from the Penn-Mar Foundation to partner with experts to improve reporting and build data literacy across the organization.

Creating a technology foundation for the future. Melanie’s plan was never just about solving today’s technology needs. It also meant creating roadmaps for the future and bringing together team members from across Penn-Mar who could help guide how the organization uses technology and data moving forward.

“Our CEO Greg Miller understands that tech is key for growing a provider agency and meeting state requirements,” Melanie said. Her retirement also gave Penn-Mar the opportunity to name Audra Hurd as its new Chief Technology Officer, ensuring technology has a voice at the leadership level.

For Melanie, the timing feels right. “I’ve completed what I set out to accomplish, so this is a good handoff point,” she said.

With some sadness, Melanie is set to leave Penn-Mar, calling it “one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.” She’s also proud to leave knowing that technology has become a bigger part of how Penn-Mar plans for the future and advances their mission.

Before signing off, Melanie had one final message for her team members and colleagues: “Take care, and remember: if all else fails, try rebooting.”

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Michelle Delozier: Reflections on a 25-Year Commitment to the Penn-Mar Mission

ggorham — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 23:00:26 +0000

“Empathy is one of the most important qualities we bring to the job.”

Recently, Michelle Delozier came across a Facebook post advertising job openings at Penn-Mar. When she shared the post, she wrote “We need good people! Twenty-five years ago, I walked into orientation thinking I’d be the one making the difference… I have made a difference, but their [the people we support] impact on my life has been extraordinary!”

Michelle proved to be one of those “good people” when she joined Penn-Mar in 2001, despite having no previous experience working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Raised on a small family farm, she worked on a dairy farm and a Thoroughbred farm until she stepped away in her mid-30s to reconsider what she wanted from the next chapter of her life.

When a friend of Michelle’s lost her driver’s license, she offered to drive her friend to work, which just so happened to be at Penn-Mar’s Day Program.

“I often went inside when I picked her up from work and was amazed by how quickly everyone welcomed me with open arms,” she said. “It was a fantastic place, and it didn’t take me long to realize there was something special about the Penn-Mar community.”

The rest is history.

Michelle’s first role at Penn-Mar was as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at a Maryland community home. She was promoted to Senior DSP in the same program, spent nearly nine years providing one-to-one support to an elderly resident, and eventually served as the Residential Supervisor of the home.

In 2015, Michelle stepped into her current role as Penn-Mar Central Residential Program Manager, where she supports Residential Supervisors in five of Penn-Mar’s 33 Maryland residential homes.

Michelle’s supervisor, Residential Administrator Tasha Miller, can’t say enough about the positive impact that Michelle has had on the organization.

“It has been an absolute privilege to work with Michelle,” Tasha said. “While I have had the opportunity to lead her, she has taught me just as much along the way. Her compassion, resilience, and dedication consistently shine through in all that she does. I greatly value the professional relationship we have built over the years, and it has truly been an honor to lead and learn from her.”

Twenty-five years in an organization is bound to bring change. One change that stands out to Michelle is Penn-Mar’s increased focus on team member training. These courses range from leadership development to a Career Ladders certification program that gives DSPs opportunities for advancement and higher compensation.

“Over the years team members have evolved from caregivers into more person-centered direct support professionals,” Michelle noted. “Empathy is one of the most important qualities we bring to the job.”

When leadership training was introduced, Michelle remembers wondering, Why would I need that after so many years in the field? She now considers it invaluable because it exposes participants to different perspectives and encourages them to share experiences.

“I love it when team members return from training energized and excited to share what they learned,” Michelle said.

After 25 years, Michelle appreciates that Penn-Mar has given her room to grow while also valuing the experience and perspective she brings to her work.

“I have always advocated for what I believe is right for our team members and the people Penn-Mar supports. I appreciate that Penn-Mar allows me to speak boldly and have always felt heard and respected. The organization’s commitment to always pushing forward and changing for the better is what has kept me here.”

“Every day I walk into Penn-Mar, I know I am part of the foundation that supports people with disabilities. They know what they can expect from me. You look at life differently when you see through the eyes of the people we support. They are incredibly happy, honest, and genuine. Their perseverance is just stunning, and every kindness is returned. I am inspired by them and have learned you can never underestimate the IDD community!”

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August is National Make-A-Will Month

ggorham — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 22:09:05 +0000

A reminder to plan for the people and causes that matter most.

August is National Make-A-Will Month, a time dedicated to encouraging individuals to create or update their will to make their wishes clear and think about the people and causes that matter most to them.

According to a 2025 survey from Caring.com, only 24% of Americans reported having a will, down from 33% in 2022.

Without a will, state law, rather than your personal wishes, generally determines how your estate is handled after you pass.

It is understandable that many people put off estate planning because it can be a difficult subject to think about, and knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming.

To make getting started a little easier, Penn-Mar has gathered these free tools and resources to help you plan for the future.

For those who choose to include Penn-Mar in their estate plans, the Legacy Circle is our way of recognizing and thanking them for that commitment. It also connects people who share a belief in Penn-Mar’s mission and its future.

I see firsthand how essential individual donations, bequests, and grants are to supplement the government funding that helps us meet the basic needs of the people we support. Our Penn-Mar Foundation exists to ensure we have the additional resources needed to carry out our mission — creating bold new possibilities to help them live courageously in pursuit of their best life.

My wife, Terri, and I chose to include a gift to Penn-Mar in our will so that our support will continue beyond our lifetimes. That decision also made us part of the Legacy Circle, a community we are proud to join. This gift is our way of celebrating the lasting impact of a mission that has become a guiding force in our lives.

These transformational gifts are called “legacy” for a reason: they are an extension of who we are and have life-changing effects on generations to come. Planned giving is all about creating support that endures. I often imagine how our gift to Penn-Mar will one day impact the life of someone not yet born.

You don’t need to know today exactly what your future gift might look like. If you’re considering including Penn-Mar in your plans, we’ve gathered resources to help you explore your options. And if you’ve already included Penn-Mar in your estate plans, we’d love to know so we can thank you and welcome you to the Legacy Circle.

Make-A-Will Month is an important reminder that creating or updating a will is one way we can care for the people we love and continue supporting the causes that have shaped our lives.

Whatever your plans may be, I hope this month gives you a reason to start the conversation.

For more information about The Legacy Circle, Contact Jenn Hobbs at jennhobbs@penn-mar.org.

The post August is National Make-A-Will Month appeared first on Penn-Mar.

Team Member Spotlight: Garrett Serio

ggorham — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 21:29:17 +0000

Each month, we highlight a “behind-the-scenes” team member whose work supports our mission, but whose face you might not often see on our social media pages.

We’re excited to help you get to know our innovative team and the complex work we do.

So, tune in for our #TeamMemberSpotlight, where our team members share in their own words a bit about themselves!

What is your job title?

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Developmental Disabilities Certified (DDC)

How long have you been with Penn-Mar?

16 years between Change and Penn-Mar (Change merged with Penn-Mar in 2019)

How did you get connected with Penn-Mar?

When I was working at Change, I was approached by Patrick, the Residential Supervisor at a residential home, about an open position.

What was your previous work experience prior to Penn-Mar and how did it prepare you for your current role?

While I was in high school, all my service hours came from assisting my mom in teaching adults with developmental disabilities how to cook, garden, and shop using nutrition labels as a guide for healthy eating. That experience led me directly into working in the developmental disabilities field, beginning at Change, then to Penn-Mar as a Senior Residential Assistant, Licensed Practical Nurse at a residential home, and currently, the Maryland LPN for Penn-Mar.

Each step helped prepare me for my current role in different ways. I have learned:

That the importance of communication between individuals, DSPs, families, nursing, administration, providers, and hospitals in providing a good continuity of care

That proper organization and documentation can ensure that the individuals we support are able to receive the funding and services that they need to live their lives the way that they want

That education on the medical aspect of the care that we provide is essential to ensuring that the individuals we support are safe, healthy, and can be supported in making the best possible health decisions for themselves

That forming connections with the people that you support can help a DSP identify changes early, especially if an individual communicates in a non-traditional way, and assist them in getting the care that they need

That something as simple as sitting down and having a conversation with someone or sharing a smile can make someone’s whole day

What does your work entail?

My work currently entails:

Supporting DSPs with using internal information management systems to update medical records

Ensuring paperwork is up to date and appointments have been completed

Ensuring medications that have been ordered are in the home, not expired, and administered properly

Supporting DSPs with education and training

Providing assistance with advocacy at hospitals and discharges from hospitals

Assisting the delegating nurse with tasks that DSPs cannot perform

Connecting Penn-Mar with outside providers to provide services to the individuals we support

Identifying areas of need within the programs

What’s an average day like for you?

I do not currently have an average day; every day is different based on the needs of the programs. Some days I spend a lot of time on administrative work, other days I go from program to program to assess the books and medications or to complete training.

What’s one thing you wish people realized about your job?

That my goal is to help, to make things easier for the DSPs so they can focus on supporting the individuals in their programs without having to take a lot of time trying to find paperwork or medications.

In another life, your career path is . . .

An aviation mechanic

Why is Penn-Mar’s mission important to you?

Penn-Mar’s mission is important to me because I firmly believe that people with IDD should be able to live the lives they want and should be supported to make that happen. Penn-Mar’s commitment to all aspects of support helps the individuals we support do exactly that.

What’s one thing you wished the general public knew about people with IDD?

I wish that the general public knew that you can learn so much about life and happiness from people with IDD, and that spending time with the individuals we support can improve your life in the best way.

What is your favorite quote or mantra?

“Giving up is not in the blood, sir. It’s not in the blood.” – Nirmal ‘Nimsdai’ Purja

Any hidden talents or fun facts someone wouldn’t know about you?

That I enjoy learning new things everyday.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, you’d visit . . .

The Himalayas or Karakoram, which will soon be a reality. I am currently planning a trip to trek to Everest base camp with my kids once I graduate from my BSN program.

In your spare time, you’ll be found . . .

Reading a wide range of genres or at a Hershey Bears game.

A book, movie, TV show, sports team, etc. you love:

Hershey Bears and Navy

Something fun, interesting, or meaningful about yourself:

I am a member of the Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association and have earned my DDC (developmental disabilities certified) certification.

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