team member spotlight Archives - Penn-Mar

Crystal Rich’s Journey: From Family Caregiver to Empowering DSP

ggorham — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 20:44:09 +0000

Crystal Rich brings her drive and heart to help people grow and live more independently.

Crystal Rich assumed responsibility early in life for the daily care of her great-grandmother, who suffered from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Recognizing the value of her experience, she began considering how others might benefit from her insights.

After finding traditional school “boring,” she completed the GED High School Equivalency test and graduated at 17 from Carroll County Public Schools. From there she resumed her part-time job at a fast-food restaurant while she figured what to do with her “crazy drive,” as she puts it.

Crystal launched her professional journey in hospice care before transitioning, at age 19, to an Assisted Living Home. There, she earned her Medical Technician Certification and spent nearly two decades working in home care.

Alongside her healthcare career, Crystal obtained a Pennsylvania license to practice as a hair stylist and cosmetologist, though she viewed salon work primarily as a personal hobby while continuing to seek more stable opportunities for her family.

In November 2025, Crystal joined Penn-Mar as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at its Westminster Supported Living unit where she is part of a team that supports six people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), ages 25 to 70, facilitating their transition to independent living.

When she arrived for her job interview, the position she initially applied for was filled. Fortunately, her current position had just become available. “I feel like this was all meant to be,” she said. “I had no idea when I accepted the job all that it would entail but once I got here, I hit the ground running. Every day I learn as much from the people I support as they learn from me!”

Most of the people Crystal supports came from homes where they lived with family members and parents who, as they aged, began exploring other options for transitioning their loved ones with IDD into independent living.

Penn-Mar’s Supported Living Program provides tailored learning experiences and guidance to help people with disabilities pursue their safe, happy, and healthy independent living objectives.

“This is a very unique program that was developed for developed for people with IDD who are ready for more independence but still need support in their day-to-day lives,” Crystal said.

She noted that things are so different — and better — today for people with IDD. Crystal sees that progress every day. More people are getting out into their communities, volunteering, and working through Penn-Mar’s employment programs.

Crystal describes her daily responsibilities in Supported Living as “constructive chaos.” She meets with the members of her group at their homes and basically goes with the flow depending on their needs for the day which may involve medical appointments, unforeseen illnesses, or volunteering and employment commitments.

A significant component of her role involves teaching essential life skills such as cooking, laundry, and housekeeping. Once foundational skills are achieved, they move on to financial topics like responsible spending and bill management. “We want them to be free-spirited and open-minded about learning and making solid decisions,” said Crystal.

Crystal’s “crazy drive” ended up leading her to her true career destination.

In April, Crystal will travel to Clearwater, Florida to accept her associate degree from Ultimate Medical Academy. She is also preparing to participate in Penn-Mar’s Career Ladders Program to earn her NADSP E-Badge Academy certification.

“People with IDD are amazing and so much more than their disabilities,” said Crystal. “I’m excited to watch the people I support grow in their independence and experience more of what life has to offer. I love being part of that every day.”

The post Crystal Rich’s Journey: From Family Caregiver to Empowering DSP appeared first on Penn-Mar.

Thinking Outside the Big Box

ggorham — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 19:26:48 +0000

After 30 years in retail, Daniella Amos found renewed purpose supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Daniella Amos

After three decades working in the retail field, Daniella Amos started to feel like she was ready to take a leap and explore different careers that excited her and gave her purpose.

In the 18 years she spent with BJ’s Wholesale Club managing two store locations and 12 years with Lowes, her responsibilities ranged from customer service to inventory control. In the appliance and paint departments she supervised, moving heavy equipment and 20-gallon paint cans were regular requirements of the job.

People were always telling Daniella what a “sweetheart” she was. Her customers loved her and would often stop her on the street or at a local event to tell her what “a kind and giving heart she had.”

One day she was approached by a man who was shopping in the paint department at Lowes. He watched how she helped a customer and asked her if she had ever thought about counseling children. “We could use someone like you in the Baltimore County School District,” he said.

While she had never thought of working in support services, she knew that the physical demands of her current job were starting to take a toll, not to mention the stress to continually increase sales, open new credit card accounts, and resolve customer complaints involving anything from damaged products to expired coupons.

Daniella Amos and a person supported take a selfie.

It must have been fate that while scrolling her Facebook feed, she saw an ad for Penn-Mar Human Services hiring Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs). “Something pulled me in,” she said.

Daniella was hired in April 2022, and her supervisor Rhonda Morano said, “From day one, Daniella immersed herself in her work and quickly demonstrated strong commitment and capability.”

Daniella admitted that when she first considered the DSP position, she thought “support” meant doing everything for people. She soon learned that Penn-Mar’s person-centered approach gives people with IDD a voice to articulate their own wants and needs.

“Our job is to give them the support and independence necessary to achieve their dreams,” she said.

Daniella began her career in the Penn-Mar Central Day Program as a DSP group staff before transitioning into one of the Community Direct Support (CDS) groups. Currently, she supports four individuals in the community each day, consistently seeking meaningful, engaging experiences and volunteer opportunities.

Rhonda praises Daniella for her flexibility and dedication, noting that in addition to her regular 40 hour week in the Day Program, she has stepped in to support 11 residential homes as a substitute.

During her first year at Penn-Mar, Daniella felt “blessed” to be selected to attend the DSP Maryland Association of Community Services (MACS) Conference where she took advantage of the “eye opening” training workshops and informal discussions with fellow DSPs from Penn-Mar and other human services organizations.

Daniella Amos and a person supported take a selfie.

She is a 2024 Professional Development Program graduate and a Leaders in Our Midst award recipient. She is also currently enrolled in the Career Ladders Program to enhance her learning and to eventually mentor the next generation of Penn-Mar DSPs.

Daniella says that her community trips with the people she supports to places like the African American Museum and Negro Baseball League Museum have even connected her to her own culture. And her participation with Penn-Mar’s advocacy group has increased her understanding of the many advancements that have been made over the years to promote equality and inclusivity for people with IDD.

“I definitely found the right career,” Daniella said. “I want to help everyone feel their worth. It takes a strong person to do what DSPs do, to find ways to overcome challenges and form meaningful relationships. In many ways, my retail experience prepared me for this, and there’s no question I have gotten more out of my career here at Penn-Mar than what I signed up for.”

The post Thinking Outside the Big Box appeared first on Penn-Mar.

Team Member Spotlight: Teresa O’Brien

ggorham — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 20:08:56 +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?
Support Team Manager with Penn-Mar West in Westminster, MD

How long have you been with Penn-Mar?
I will be with the organization for 38 years in September 2026.

How did you get connected with Penn-Mar?
I began working with Change, Inc in 1988. In 2020, Change, Inc became a part of Penn-Mar. While working for Change, Inc in the early 90s, I collaborated with Penn-Mar on work contracts.

What was your previous work experience prior to Penn-Mar and how did it prepare you for your current role?
I have been supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) since I was 12 years old. At that time, I worked summer camps for the Arc of Carroll County. I also babysat for a man who had a developmental disability. He is the main reason I decided to learn about the field. While attending college, I worked for the Arc in their residential program. All of these experiences in direct support gave me understanding how to best support Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and manage caseload duties.

What does your work entail?
My work entails supporting people to live courageously in pursuit of their best life by meeting the expectation of Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) while still maintaining a community based person-centered program. I support DSPs to make sure they understand what a meaningful day should look like for the person they are supporting and ensure they have the resources they need to support a group of four individuals each day. One of those resources involves maintaining company vehicles by scheduling repairs and digging vehicles out of the snow. I make connections in the community to create volunteer opportunities, inclusion in community events, and environments to implement other meaningful activities. I develop and maintain relationships with families and other residential agencies. And so much more…

What’s an average day like for you?
I start my day early, reviewing my calendars. Those who know me, know that I use about three calendars. I just need to organize this way to keep from missing anything. I move to reading emails… I usually have emails to address from residential staff or families from the evening before. According to the day, I move on to the priority list. As I write this, today was approving timecards, filling in the comment section on those timecards, and completing billing which is approving daily logs. I like to make comments in the daily log to the DSPs on what they could add in future logs or share my appreciation for how support was provided. Today, I have a few 1:1 sessions. I do enjoy these sessions even when a DSP might not have much to share with me. This gives me opportunity to ask them questions to spark ideas they may want to implement with the people they support. Of course, there is a meeting or two (or three!) It is currently the season when many annual Person Centered Plannings (PCPs) are due for the caseload I support. I have two amazing Senior Direct Support Professionals (SDSPs) who help with this piece. It is in my role to support them to develop the skills needed to complete this task and prepare them for their next role hopefully within Penn-Mar.

What’s one thing you wish people realized about your job?
Managing a program that is 100 percent community-based requires you to be able to problem solve and pivot in the direction that the wind blows… sometimes literally. What do you do when you have a great day planned at the park and it rains? What do you do when the county buildings are closed for a holiday, but services continue? Managers who work in Community Development Services (CDS) full-time need to juggle many balls in the air. And we do it well!

In another life, your career path is….
In another life, I would like to increase my courage and be more like Olivia Benson from Law & Order. She is a character who supports the Special Victims Unit. She supports people with some unimaginable and horrifying situations. I would like to be as brave as she is to become someone’s shield and support system.

Why is Penn-Mar’s mission important to you?
I want to be a part of a team who supports people to live courageously in pursuit of their best life. The person with IDD that I babysat early in my life at one point moved to Virgina in mid 1980s. My parents took me to visit him, and we went to McDonald’s for lunch. One of the customers at McDonald’s asked my mother how she was allowed to bring him in the McDonald’s? She told my mother that she worked in a group home and they were not allowed to take the people with IDDs out in the community. This comment always stuck with me. I want to support people to experience as much as they can.

What is one thing you wished the general public knew about people with IDD?
People with IDD have a lot of interesting things to say. Be patient and listen.

What is your favorite quote or mantra?
“Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see” by St. Mother Teresa

Any hidden talents or fun facts someone wouldn’t know about you?
Fun fact: One time in middle school, I snuck in the science lab and freed a live frog that was scheduled to be dissected by my class that afternoon.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, you’d visit…
I would love to see Itay. I have been invited a few times but unfortunately the timing wasn’t right.

In your spare time, you’ll be found…
Outside!!! Walking the reservoir by my home. Working in the flowerbeds, swinging on my bench swing.

A book, movie, TV show, sports team, etc you love:
When time allows, I do enjoy reading. I just finished an interesting book, Sociopath A memoir by Patric Gagne, PHD. I also enjoy watching the earlier seasons of The Walking Dead.

Something fun, interesting, or meaningful about yourself:
This question reminds me that I need to make time for some fun. My last big trip was to Costa Rica in 2023. Ten nights sleeping in eight different places. We only had reservations for a rental car and the first two nights of the trip. The rest was up to my boys to find an Airbnb… thank goodness they spoke Spanish. What a trip!!

The post Team Member Spotlight: Teresa O’Brien appeared first on Penn-Mar.

Team Member Spotlight: Matthew Muench

ggorham — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 16:42:58 +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?
Associate Director of Development

How long have you been with Penn-Mar?
In April it will be 10 years.

How did you get connected with Penn-Mar?
A friend of mine recommended that I apply.

What was your previous work experience prior to Penn-Mar and how did it prepare you for your current role?
I’ve spent 20 years working in the nonprofit sector, where I built experience in grant proposal writing and learned the value of strong data practices. That background prepared me well for my role at Penn-Mar, which has challenged me, taught me a great deal, and helped me grow professionally in ways I hadn’t experienced before.

What does your work entail?
My work focuses on managing our constituent database to support fundraising and communications, researching and writing grant proposals, compiling data, and managing the behind-the-scenes segmentation and scheduling of our online communications.

What’s an average day like for you?
No two days are really the same. One day I’ll spend time in our constituent database, another I’m focused on grants, and another I’m working on data requests/reports.

What’s one thing you wish people realized about your job?
The critical role good data, collaboration, and effective grant proposal writing and management play in advancing Penn-Mar’s mission.

In another life, your career path is . . .
I would like to be a film studies professor, but I’m happy with the way my career path went.

Why is Penn-Mar’s mission important to you?
Penn-Mar’s mission matters to me because it’s rooted in dignity and independence, and supports people in living courageously and pursuing their best life.

What’s one thing you wished the general public knew about people with IDD?
I wish the general public would understand that people with IDD want the same things everyone does. They don’t need to be pitied or treated as “other.” They want to belong, to be respected, and to live happy, fulfilling lives with dignity, kindness, and love.

What is your favorite quote or mantra?
“Keep your eye on the donut, and not on the hole” – David Lynch

Any hidden talents or fun facts someone wouldn’t know about you?
Oddly enough, I’m a surprisingly good hula hooper. I’m probably rusty now though.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, you’d visit . . .
I’d like to see Petra in Jordan

In your spare time, you’ll be found . . .
Watching a movie at the Charles Theater in Baltimore

A book, movie, TV show, sports team, etc. you love:
My favorite movie changes daily, but at this moment it’s Paris, Texas by Wim Wenders.

Something fun, interesting, or meaningful about yourself:
I appreciate simple routines and quiet.

The post Team Member Spotlight: Matthew Muench appeared first on Penn-Mar.

Team Member Spotlight: Jeannine O’Mahony

ggorham — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 22:01:28 +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? PA Employment Support Manager

How long have you been with Penn-Mar? A little more than two years.

How did you get connected with Penn-Mar? There’s this really awesome recruiter at Penn-Mar who told me I should apply

What was your previous work experience prior to Penn-Mar and how did it prepare you for your current role? In the ‘90s, I worked for The Arc of Onondaga (Syracuse area) in a “Day Treatment” program. After taking some time off to raise my babies, I returned to teaching (my degree is Elementary Ed). I left teaching kindergarten after the 2020 school year ended and got a job working in a retirement community, providing memory care to residents with dementia. Working with and learning from so many children and adults with so many abilities and challenges has well prepared me for my current role here, but I still learn new things almost daily from the people we support. It is refreshing how the best practices for supporting people with IDD (intellectual and developmental disabilities) have evolved and improved in the last few decades!

What does your work entail? The PA Employment Support team is relatively small: two Employment Coordinators, two Job Developers, 3 Employment Transportation Assistants, and me. I work with very dedicated team members who work tirelessly to help people with IDD explore and discover their employment skills, develop relationships with employers, create employment opportunities, and safely drive people to and from their jobs. In addition to supporting and supervising these awesome team members, I attend ISP (Individual Support Plan) meetings, collaborate with Supports Coordinators and residential and CPS (Community Participation Supports) providers, oversee documentation in our data management system, complete quarterly reports, investigate incidents as needed… and many more things that aren’t coming to mind right now.

What’s an average day like for you? No two days are ever alike, and I like it that way! Yesterday, I got to provide job coaching for a young lady we support, and it was probably my favorite part of the week! I love supporting the people we provide services to! Today I started my day with a 1:1 meeting with a Job Developer, then a PA Day Manager meeting, worked on quarterly reports, attended a virtual meeting, and worked on a team member’s annual evaluation (while covering the phone and door for our admin assistant). Tomorrow will be different….

What’s one thing you wish people realized about your job? How fulfilling it is! Also, lots of people think employment supports only consist of job coaching, but there is really so much more that goes into the process for a job seeker to secure customized employment.

In another life, your career path is . . . a racecar driver!! Seriously, although I love to drive, I would always be working with people: kids, seniors, and/or people with disabilities.

Why is Penn-Mar’s mission important to you? I love that you can take out the words “with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” and our mission pertains to every one of us. Aren’t we always encouraged to think outside the box and step out of our comfort zones to live our best lives? We are sharing that mindset and supporting all people to live courageously, many of whom have not had that opportunity in the past.

What’s one thing you wished the general public knew about people with IDD? People with disabilities are more like you and me (“the general public”) than they are different from us. They share the same feelings, desires, and a need to feel accepted and to live with purpose.

What is your favorite quote or mantra? You don’t know how strong you are until you have to be strong.

Any hidden talents or fun facts someone wouldn’t know about you? I love to cook, and my family and friends say I am amazing at “whipping up” a meal by browsing the fridge and pantry, making ingredient substitutions, and creating something yummy

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

In your spare time, you’ll be found . . . curled up on the couch with my cats, reading a good book or watching sports.

A book, movie, TV show, sports team, etc. you love: I was born and bred to be a lifelong Bills fan! My dad was one of the original season ticket holders when they became a team. Be good, do good, God Bless, Go Bills!

I also enjoy a good Baldacci, Patterson, or Picoult book!

Something fun, interesting, or meaningful about yourself: I have a 23-year old nephew, Joe, who has Autism Spectrum Disorder. Joe is one of the loves of my life! He has given so much joy to our family and taught us so much about being courageous in this world that is often not accepting of differences and disabilities. Witnessing how my brother, sister-in-law, and nephews (Joe’s brothers) support Joe helps me see things from the perspective of a family member, not just as a service provider.

The post Team Member Spotlight: Jeannine O’Mahony appeared first on Penn-Mar.

Jacey James: Leading With Heart to Transform Lives at Penn-Mar

ggorham — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 21:57:58 +0000

Jacey supports Frank continue meaningful activities after a devastating loss.

Three years ago, Frank Mansfield was in the car with his sister, Isabell, who suffered a fatal car accident. Frank was hospitalized with multiple broken bones. While he continues to grieve the loss of his sister, the steady support of his Penn-Mar Residential Supervisor, Jacey James, has helped him honor Isabell’s memory and move forward.

Frank first arrived at a Penn-Mar Stewartstown, PA community home in 2020 where he lives with three other gentlemen with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs).

Jacey joined Penn-Mar in 2021 as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Frank’s community home. Since then, she has had two promotions: first to Senior DSP, and now to Residential Supervisor.

Jacey and Frank developed a close relationship over the years. After Frank lost his sister, Jacey stepped in to help him maintain all of Frank’s activities and traditions. She makes sure he has everything he needs for crafts, baking, and gardening, and schedules Frank’s trips to his weekly Senior Center visits and the Bell Association Club where he joins his friends for karaoke and movie nights.

Jacey describes Frank as “popular wherever he goes” and says that he has a better social life than she does! He is very active in his church and enjoys visits with his family and friends at country music concerts, museums, and restaurants where he prefers to eat “anything that’s sweet.”

Frank enjoys giving back, and with Jacey’s support, helps organize activities and donation drives at the Senior Center, collecting toys, hats, and gloves for the community.

Each year, Jacey supports Frank in honoring his sister’s memory. She assists him with getting crosses or flowers, which he brings when he visits Isabell’s grave and crash site with his family.

Frank, a country boy who lived on a farm and loves hard work, tractors, and the great outdoors, is looking forward to celebrating his 80th birthday on March 15. Jacey and her team are planning a John Deere-themed birthday party before he leaves for his fifth cruise to the Bahamas to commemorate the milestone with family and friends.

“At his age, travel can be more challenging,” Jacey said. “But we are trying to modify things and make changes as we go. His team and I have worked hard to ensure he stays active and healthy, so he can continue living out his dreams!”

“Jacey is a good woman and a good friend,” Frank said. “She takes good care of me, and I think of her like a sister.”

Wyatt Malone, PA Residential Program Manager and Jacey’s supervisor, noted that throughout her tenure, “Jacey has demonstrated exceptional growth and commitment to Penn-Mar’s mission. Her dedication, leadership, and collaborative spirit make her an invaluable member of the team.”

Jacey has taken advantage of every training program Penn-Mar has to offer. She received her DSP-III Certification from the Career Ladders Program and successfully completed both the organization’s Professional Development and Frontline Supervisor training programs. This month she will “push out of her comfort zone” to train a class on how DSPs can set up and manage appointments for the people they support.

“I constantly work on myself,” she said. “It has made a difference in my life, both at home and on the job.”

Jacey claims her work at Penn-Mar has changed her world view and improved the way she shows up for other relationships.

“Initially, I wanted to help people and improve their lives but now I realize the people I support have helped me just as much,” she said. “They have helped shape the way I see and understand others.”

The post Jacey James: Leading With Heart to Transform Lives at Penn-Mar appeared first on Penn-Mar.

Penn-Mar Team Member Betty Huggins-Martin Honored with “Outstanding Direct Support Professional (DSP)” Award

ggorham — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 16:40:33 +0000

The community-based Senior DSP received a citation from Maryland Governor Wes Moore.

Betty poses at the award ceremony with her certificate.

In October, the Maryland Department of Health, along with partners from the Maryland Department of Disabilities and the Maryland Department of Labor hosted a celebration of everyday heroes who go above and beyond to support individuals with developmental disabilities.

Thirty-one “Outstanding Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)” were chosen from over 100 nominations, including Penn-Mar Senior DSP Betty Huggins-Martin. The honorees received individual citations from Governor Wes Moore to say ‘thank you’ for a job well done.

During the event, Department of Disabilities Secretary Carol Beatty recognized the transformational work of DSPs and thanked the honorees for providing outstanding support in the award category of community living.

“Direct Support Professionals support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities with developing important life skills that allow for meaningful participation in all aspects of their community life,” Secretary Beatty said. “This can include finding and keeping jobs, enjoying recreational activities, and living safely in their homes and neighborhoods. Direct Support Professionals are the backbone of our community system of services.”

Department of Health Secretary Laura Herrera Scott called the day’s celebration “a small token of the recognition that DSPs deserve every day of the year.”

Betty remembers being completely surprised when she learned that her supervisor, Lauren Martinez, nominated her for the prestigious honor.

“Lauren is an all-around great supervisor,” she said. “She saw something in my work that she felt deserved public recognition. She always makes it her business to tell me when I’m doing a good job and is quick to show appreciation for the efforts of the DSPs on her team.”

Betty takes a selfie with a person she supports.

Only six months after Betty joined Penn-Mar in August 2022 as a community-based DSP out of Westminster, she was promoted to Senior DSP. Describing herself as a “team player,” she said her supervisor knows she is willing to do anything she suggests or asks.

“I know how busy my supervisor is and I want coworkers on my team and other teams to know that if they need something, I will do the best I can to help and accommodate them. I am very connected with staff, and many DSPs at Penn-Mar reach out to me for advice. I like being a ‘go-to’ person for problem-solving.”

The recent award recognizing her passion for helping people in need was “heartwarming” for Betty. She first provided emotional support and personal care for a neighbor when she was only 14 years old and “just kept going from there.”

Before joining Penn-Mar, Betty supported the elderly and those with Alzheimer’s. Seeing them smile when they succeeded in doing something they usually struggled with made all her efforts worthwhile.

“I get the same feeling today,” she said, “helping the people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) at Penn-Mar live their best lives.”

Her recent award and the continuing training that Betty has pursued while at Penn-Mar have boosted her confidence and capabilities. She successfully completed a 12-month Professional Development training class, and in February she will obtain her DSP-III Certification, graduating from the Career Ladders E-Badge Academy program.

A natural “go-getter,” Betty pursues additional opportunities to enhance her skills and help her continue to be an outstanding DSP, be it side-by-side training with her supervisor or tuning in to relevant webinars.

And whether it’s helping the people she supports become more independent or devising innovative tools to help them communicate their person-centered wishes, Betty loves that no two days on the job are alike, with every day offering different experiences and breakthroughs.

“I love the direct support work I do in the community,” she said. “Looking ahead, my goal is to be a support team manager.”

That dream, and many more award opportunities, will undoubtedly be in Betty’s future!

The post Penn-Mar Team Member Betty Huggins-Martin Honored with “Outstanding Direct Support Professional (DSP)” Award appeared first on Penn-Mar.

Karen Koenigsberg: Team Member Spotlight

ggorham — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 20:15:40 +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?

My current job title is Administrative Assistant for Penn-Mar West. Up until September of this year I was a Support Team Manager.

How long have you been with Penn-Mar?

7 Years

How did you get connected with Penn-Mar?

My son and daughter have been receiving supports since my son was 4 (starting with CHANGE, now Penn-Mar). I was originally hired to do respite, family & peer mentoring, and admission.

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

My last position was with Get Connected Family Resource Center, I was the Program Director. For my current role I worked as special ed secretary for CCPS and also worked as a secretary for a church.

What does your work entail?

Currently I provide administrative supports for the Westminster Team, including running reports for audits and supporting the Managers and DSPs any way I can.

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

I truly enjoy working with the people we support in Penn-Mar. In my new position I am still learning what is required, but I am always willing to help when possible!

In another life, your career path is . . .

A Marine/police officer

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

It’s important because it can and does have a positive impact on people’s lives, by supporting and encouraging them to try.

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

That they are very capable people, they may just learn or communicate differently than most people.

What is your favorite quote or mantra?

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched—they must be felt with the heart.” by Helen Keller

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” by Helen Keller

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

I enjoy traveling where it is relaxing (no place special)

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

With family

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

Book: And There Were None by Agatha Christie
Movie: Brian Song (the original)
TV show: The Muppets

Something fun, interesting, or meaningful about yourself:

I enjoy playing board games/cards, woodworking, and crafts.

The post Karen Koenigsberg: Team Member Spotlight appeared first on Penn-Mar.

Tasha Miller: Team Member Spotlight

ggorham — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 20:54:57 +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?

Maryland Residential Administrator

How long have you been with Penn-Mar?

I just celebrated 15 years this year!

How did you get connected with Penn-Mar?

Out of high school, the future I had planned for myself went into another (much better!) direction. While figuring out that direction, a relative suggested I look into Penn-Mar in the meantime. I started my Penn-Mar career in PA’s respite program. It did not take long at all to fall in love with my role, so much so that I worked two part time roles at respite for 2 years!

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

Growing up, my mom worked in a nursing home, and I spent many years alongside her volunteering as a candy striper. Getting to build relationships with the residents, especially those who had no family, was very special to me and was something I loved doing. What was important to me in that time was to treat everyone with dignity, despite their cognitive abilities. I feel that this really helped me with the foundation of supporting people at Penn-Mar; treating all people as humans despite what may be going on in their lives.

What does your work entail?

As the Residential Administrator, I oversee all 32 homes in Maryland, which includes supervising the Residential Program Managers, our Residential Programs Assistant, and our amazing Administrative Assistant! I aim to be a steward to Residential Supervisors and the teams that they lead. I am a listening ear and a coach to other’s concerns, while also supporting the lead in decisions that drive us further into successfully supporting those who live with us! I also have the honor of co-leading our wonderful Consistent Practices Workgroup, as well as being an active member of our Awards Committee.

What’s an average day like for you?

Like a lot of us at Penn-Mar, no day is ever the same! I could be in my office, attending meetings with my directs or other support team members, and the next moment popping out of my office to assist in our day center. One of my favorite things to do is to take a “lap” around the day center after meetings to see the wonderful things that our teams are doing with those supported in the center.

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

I have a LOT of meetings, but every meeting has value, and each one is aimed at making Penn-Mar better at every turn. I have the opportunity to help support so many along with being the voice for our DSPs, Frontline Supervisors, and Managers. So, a lot of my time is spent listening to those very people, so that I can be their advocate and help them be heard!

In another life, your career path is . . .

A nurse or an EMT! It was my goal in life, but a traumatic experience shadowing in the field made me realize that this was not going to be my path. Those in the medical field do not get enough gratitude for what they do for our communities.

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

It is important to me because we have come so far in how we support people from when I began my career at Penn-Mar. We push boundaries, go in unchartered waters, which is sometimes scary, but also exhilarating! While I may not always be directly involved with those we support, I love hearing success stories and seeing the results of our work in action!

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

The people we support are incredible people, just like me and you. There are no differences. They have dreams, goals, personal values, and deserve to be who they are, just as they are.

What is your favorite quote or mantra?

I don’t have a favorite quote, but you’ll often hear me say, “life is too short to be so angry,” or “life is too short to not eat that brownie!”

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

I am ambidextrous! I am primarily left-handed, but I can write with both. Go lefties!

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

I’d be up for anything! I got to spend a few weeks in France in my junior year of high school. It was quite an experience, and it made me realize that there is a lot out there to explore!

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

Camping! We are local campers, but it is my happy place no matter where we go.

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

My family and I are fans of the Philadelphia Eagles, long before they started winning games! Go birds!

Something fun, interesting, or meaningful about yourself:

My husband and I have been together since high school. We just recently celebrated 17 years together, and we have two children – Allie (15) and Jacob (11). They are the foundation of my life. They have been incredible supporters of my journey at Penn-Mar, just as I am their biggest supporter!

The post Tasha Miller: Team Member Spotlight appeared first on Penn-Mar.

The “Ever Evolving” Kimberly Palmer

ggorham — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 18:46:13 +0000

Kimberly Palmer

She’s making her mark in a unique way.

Kimberly Palmer is accustomed to people commenting on her magenta-colored hair, vibrant clothing styles, and Converse All-Star high-top sneakers with rainbow flames.

And when the Penn-Mar Residential Supervisor frequently visits the organization’s Day Program, she can’t help but notice that several of the ladies there are now sporting their own shade of pink hair.

But her style influence can’t compare to the passion she has for supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

In college, Kimberly studied criminal justice, but a brief internship in the Howard County Crime Lab convinced her that she needed to pursue a new career and “a degree in life experience.”

She has always loved children and felt especially devoted to her nephew with autism. When her mother suggested she might like working with kids, Kimberly took her advice. For the next 5 years, she taught children with autism in Howard County. After moving to Chicago, she held a similar position for 17 years. She eventually moved back to Maryland where she worked at a school for people with autism for three years before finally finding Penn-Mar.

Kimberly Palmer stands next to the three people she supports.

Kimberly described herself as “very introverted” in her 20s when she lived in Baltimore, but everyone who knows her now would say quite the opposite. “The move to Chicago helped me grow,” she said. “That’s when I started fine-tuning my ‘brand.’”

As Kimberly got older, the physical demands of working with children with autism were taking a toll, so she started researching job opportunities for supporting adults.

“I looked at all the local companies, went on Indeed, and Penn-Mar stood out to me as being the best provider by a long shot,” she said. “I applied for the job in October of 2023 and was invited to an interview at one of their community homes. I ended up staying at the house for four hours, hanging out with the amazing guys who lived there. I was offered the Senior Direct Support Professional (SDSP) job before I said goodbye and was later promoted to the home’s Residential Supervisor.”

The three gentlemen with IDD who Kimberly supports are “like brothers,” having lived together since 1991. She loves watching them grow with the help of Penn-Mar’s person-centered supports.

One of those men is retiree Elmer who is living his best life” going on regular dates with his fiancée Cindy, a “boot twin” to Kimberly with her matching pair of high-top sneakers.

The other gentlemen, Alfred and Tommy, participate in the Day Program and like to visit coffee shops to try out new flavors, go to Taking the Lead for horseback riding, and help with grocery shopping.

Kimberly Palmer and Tommy take a selfie at Taking the Lead, where Tommy goes horseback riding. Tommy is wearing a helmet.

Because she fills in at other community homes on weekends when needed and is a regular presence at the Day Program, Kimberly has come to know many of the people that Penn-Mar supports and their DSPs.

“There are so many good people at Penn-Mar,” she said. “Everyone I work with absolutely cares about the people we support. We’re not in it for the money; we want to do something that makes a difference, help people achieve their dreams.”

Kimberly’s boyfriend Timmy saw that first-hand when he attended a Celebration of Life service for Steve, a person Penn-Mar supported who had recently passed away. He was so moved by the outpouring of love from team members that he told Kimberly, ‘I want to do what you do.’ Timmy decided to leave his construction career of 30 years for a position as a Senior Residential Assistant at Penn-Mar.

Kimberly is graduating this month from a Professional Development training class that she credits with helping her grow more positive about her abilities. She and her fellow students were encouraged to envision their future growth with Penn-Mar, but she knew any promotion opportunities would take her away “from the guys that mean everything to me” and the house that has a special place in her heart.

So, while Kimberly sees herself as “ever evolving,” she plans to stay put doing what she loves most: working directly with people with IDD. However, she is seriously considering switching her hair color to Smurf blue or forest green.

The post The “Ever Evolving” Kimberly Palmer appeared first on Penn-Mar.