PennCares is a community-based nonprofit organization providing early intervention, child development programs, in-home care, and lifelong supportive services for individuals of all ages and abilities across York, Adams, and Franklin Counties in Pennsylvania.
We offer personalized services for infants and young children, adults with disabilities, and older adults—helping each person live well, safely, and with dignity in their community. Our team works closely with families to ensure every individual receives compassionate, responsive support tailored to their unique needs.
Our Mission
PennCares advances the quality of life and promotes independence and productivity for individuals with disabilities and challenges throughout their lives.
History
PennCares has been serving South-Central Pennsylvania for more than 60 years. Originally founded in 1962 as United Cerebral Palsy of South Central Pennsylvania, the organization began as a small service provider and advocate for children with disabilities and their families.
Over the decades, we have grown alongside our communities—expanding our reach and broadening our programs to support individuals of all ages and abilities. Today, PennCares provides in-home care, early childhood services, and educational programs across York, Adams, and Franklin Counties.
What has remained constant throughout our history is our commitment to kindness, consideration, competence, and respect for the dignity and worth of every person. Whether it’s extra help at home after a surgery, early intervention for a young child, or ongoing support for adults and older adults, PennCares continues to be here for you—just as we have been for more than half a century.
Leadership Team
Our leadership team is committed to guiding PennCares with integrity, expertise, and a strong focus on service excellence. Below you’ll find contact information for our leadership team. We welcome you to reach out with any questions.
Deborah S. Allen, MSW, CDP
Executive Director
dallen@penncares.org
Tammie Woolgar, B.S.
Assistant Executive Director
twoolgar@penncares.org
Melissa Chittum
Office Manager
mchittum@penncares.org
Board of Directors
Daryl Hewitt, B.A., M.A.
Board President
Mobile Therapist/Behavior Specialist
T.W. Ponessa & Associates Counseling Services, Inc
Millersburg, PA
Lisa Lowrie DSW, LSW
Board Secretary
Director of Advocacy & Consumer Relations,
The Bradley Center
Pittsburgh, PA
Yvette Kamimura-Jones, MS, CPS
Forensic Behavioral Health Training Specialist
Behavioral Health Training & Education Network
Philadelphia, PA
Lynn Frick
Director of Finance & Administration
Summit Advisory, Inc.,
Lancaster, PA
Margaret Thatcher
Retired
Mental Health & Aging Advocate
Altoona, PA
Rosalind Brendle
Retired
Nurse
Hanover, PA
Mark Miller
Office Manager
G&R Excavating
Tyrone, PA
Deborah Allen, MSW, CDP
Executive Director
PennCares Support Services
Elliottsburg, PA
Locations
Hanover
(717) 632-5552
Main Office
788 Cherry Tree Ct.
Hanover, PA 17331
Chambersburg
(717) 267-2672
“The Avenues”
550 Cleveland Avenue Suite 209
Chambersburg, PA 17201