Posted on February 28, 2025
February 24, 2025
Baltimore –Penn-Mar Human Services, the region’s leading provider of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), will welcome friends, supporters, and benefactors to the 33rd Annual Gala Fundraiser on Saturday, March 1, 2025. The event will take place at 6 p.m. at the Marriott Owings Mills Metro Centre in Owings Mills, Maryland. Coinciding with National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, the Gala offers a timely opportunity to raise funds that will directly support the regional IDD community.
Penn-Mar’s Gala has stood out as the nonprofit’s most significant fundraising event since its inception in 1992 and now attracts over 500 guests. Comprised of event sponsorships, table and ticket sales, live and silent auctions, and the always-popular Special Appeal, the Gala is vital to the success of Penn-Mar. While a vast majority of Penn-Mar’s operating revenue comes from state and federal funding, it is not enough to support the full scope of services. Therefore, private donations through events like the Gala are essential to the organization’s continued success. In 2024, $605,000 was raised, and used to support the nonprofit’s existing and ever-expanding range of programs.
The Gala not only plays a crucial role in Penn-Mar’s financial goals but also serves as a celebration of the past year’s achievements and the individuals who have helped further the organization’s mission of empowering people with IDD to “Live Courageously.”
“The past year, along with the years leading up to it, has been nothing short of extraordinary,” says Penn-Mar CEO Greg Miller. “Our success didn’t come by chance- it’s the product of deliberate strategy, strong leadership, and the unwavering commitment of employees, board members, and dedicated supporters in the community. Our achievements reflect the power of collaboration and the exceptional culture we’ve cultivated together, one that continues to grow and thrive.”
This year’s Gala promises all the exciting elements that have made it a standout event, including a raw oyster bar, dancing, a spirited live auction, and live entertainment. Guests will enjoy four wines paired with a fabulous sit-down gourmet dinner, followed by a decadent dessert buffet and live music from the band Black Tie.
One of the evening’s most anticipated moments is the live auction, hosted by the renowned Adcock Auctioneers, featuring stunning jewelry, concert tickets, world-class vacations, and even a rare bottle of Pappy Van Winkle bourbon. The silent auction is also filled with fabulous items—more than 90 in total— including sports memorabilia, fine art, spa packages, and unique keepsakes.
The Gala is also the annual opportunity to present the Distinguished Humanitarian Award, which honors individuals who have courageously dedicated their lives to community service and shown unwavering support for Penn-Mar’s ongoing mission. This year’s honorees are lifelong York, Pennsylvania residents Jeff and Cindy Lobach. The couple has devoted their lives to service, community involvement, and philanthropy. Their work on the internationally recognized Golden Venture project, a pro bono asylum effort led by Jeff during his presidency of the York County Bar Association, was transformative. Their philanthropic contributions have earned numerous accolades, including awards from the Bar Association, Rotary’s Service Above Self Award, the University of Pennsylvania’s Crystal Stair Award, and the Presbyterian Church USA’s Peacemaking Award.
“Jeff and Cindy are prime examples of what it means to live with purpose and compassion,” says Miller. “The Distinguished Humanitarian Award is meant to recognize those who go above and beyond to serve others, and Jeff and Cindy’s dedication to their community and family is nothing short of inspiring. Their work has made a profound impact on those around them, and personally, they continue to motivate me to do more.”
Another highlight of the evening is the presentation of the Jonathan R. Kinsley Impact Award, named in memory of long-time Penn-Mar supporter Jon Kinsley, who passed away in 2023. This award acknowledges an individual who has selflessly dedicated their time and efforts to Penn-Mar’s mission.
This year, Penn-Mar celebrates Tyler Superczynski, a 2024 graduate of Maryland’s Mount Saint Joseph High School and now a freshman at Clemson University. Tyler’s service journey began at Penn-Mar’s Respite Inn in Westminster, Maryland, sparking his desire to do more. Combining his love for lacrosse with his commitment to giving back, Tyler launched a summer lacrosse program for Penn-Mar. Over two years, the program hosted 24 sessions, providing joy and opportunity for adults in the IDD community. In 2024, Tyler expanded the program, adding new coaches and coordinating activities during DSP Week to ensure its continued growth.
For additional details regarding sponsorships or ticketing, please contact Kari Ebeling at kariebeling@penn-mar.org.
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 over 400 adults with disabilities daily through an array of customizable services. www.penn-mar.org.
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