Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore has launched the Kenan J. Sklenar Fund for Direct Support Professional Advancement, creating a lasting legacy in honor of retired President and CEO Ken Sklenar and investing in the professionals who help carry out Easterseals’ mission every day.

Sklenar recently retired after 13 years of leadership at Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore and 31 years across the Easterseals organization. Throughout his tenure, he has emphasized the importance of investing in people and building a strong, committed workforce to ensure individuals with disabilities, seniors and families receive exceptional, person-centered services.

“This organization is powered by an extraordinary team of people who bring our mission to life every day,” said Sklenar. “I am especially proud that this fund will create opportunities for direct support professionals to grow, advance and be recognized for the vital work they do.”

The Homes for Life Foundation, through Micki and Lanny Edelsohn, provided an initial $100,000 gift to establish the fund for direct support professionals. Easterseals is seeking to raise an additional $100,000, which will unlock a $100,000 matching gift from the Homes for Life Foundation, bringing the fund to a total of $300,000.  

The fund will establish a sustainable career recognition program for DSPs at Easterseals, designed to support employee growth, celebrate professional achievement and strengthen retention. The program will include a structured career pathway with awards tied to professional milestones, as well as an annual CEO Excellence Award honoring nominated DSPs who make exceptional contributions to the people Easterseals serves.

“Ken has helped build a culture that recognizes the extraordinary people behind our mission, and this fund is a meaningful extension of that commitment,” said Pam Reuther, recently appointed president and CEO of Easterseals. “As we look to the future, we will continue to invest in our people and in the strength of our workforce so that the individuals and families we serve can continue to receive the exceptional support they deserve.“

The Kenan J. Sklenar Fund will be managed with a long-term goal of creating a permanent endowment, allowing investment earnings to support professional advancement and recognition for years to come. While the fund’s initial focus is on DSPs, its long-term vision reflects Easterseals’ broader commitment to investing in the people who make its mission possible across the organization. 

Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore is leading the way to an inclusive community through its innovative services, which include: children’s therapies, day programs for adults with physical and/or intellectual disabilities, supported employment, senior services, recreational camping, respite services and services for caregivers.

To learn more, call 800-677-3800 or go to de.easterseals.com.