About Penn-mar human services
Penn-Mar Human Services is a nonprofit organization that has been providing support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Maryland and Pennsylvania for over 35 years. The organization was founded in 1981 by a group of parents who were seeking better services for their children with disabilities. Since then, Penn-Mar has grown into one of the most respected and innovative providers of disability services in the region.
The mission of Penn-Mar Human Services is to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live full, meaningful lives as active members of their communities. The organization achieves this goal by providing a wide range of services that are tailored to meet the unique needs and abilities of each individual.
One of the key strengths of Penn-Mar is its commitment to person-centered planning. This approach ensures that each individual receives services that are designed specifically for them, based on their goals, preferences, strengths, and challenges. Person-centered planning involves working closely with each individual and their family members or caregivers to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses all aspects of their life – from housing and employment to social activities and healthcare.
Penn-Mar offers a variety of programs and services designed to support individuals at every stage of life. These include residential supports (such as group homes or supported living arrangements), day programs (including vocational training, community integration activities, and recreational opportunities), employment supports (such as job coaching or placement assistance), behavioral health services (including counseling or therapy), respite care (for families or caregivers who need temporary relief from caregiving responsibilities), transportation assistance, assistive technology supports (such as communication devices or mobility aids), advocacy services (to help individuals navigate complex systems such as healthcare or education), among others.
One unique aspect of Penn-Mar's approach is its focus on innovation. The organization has been at the forefront of developing new models for disability service delivery that emphasize community integration, self-determination, technology-enabled supports, person-centered planning approaches etc.. For example: In recent years they have developed an innovative program called "My Own Life" which uses technology like Amazon Alexa voice assistant devices along with other smart home technologies like smart locks etc., allowing people with disabilities greater independence while still receiving necessary support from staff when needed.
Another strength is its highly trained staff who are dedicated professionals committed towards improving quality-of-life outcomes for people served by Penn-mar human service through evidence-based practices & continuous learning opportunities provided by agency itself.
In addition to its direct service provision work ,Penn-mar also engages in advocacy efforts aimed at promoting policies & practices which promote inclusion & equity for people with intellectual & developmental disabilities across Maryland & Pennsylvania . They work closely with local legislators ,community leaders ,and other stakeholders towards achieving these goals .
Overall,Penn-mar human service stands out among other organizations serving people with intellectual & developmental disabilities due it's strong commitment towards person-centered planning approaches ,innovative programming models ,highly trained staffs,& advocacy efforts aimed at promoting inclusion& equity . If you're looking for high-quality disability-related supports/services in Maryland/Pennsylvania area then look no further than Penn-mar human service!