Health Promotion Committee

The PAR Health Promotion Committee focuses on the wellness and mitigation of health risks for all people in the ID/A system. The committee discusses best practices in health care supports for individuals receiving services. The committee generates solutions to issues unique to nurses, healthcare directors, and organizations supporting individuals with complex medical needs. The Committee works with ODP and other stakeholders to develop recommendations on policies, rates, and regulations associated with healthcare supports in the ID/A system.

Janice Knowlton, RN, Co-Chair

Vice President of Autism and Intellectual Disabilities 
Access Services
[email protected]

Janice began working in the field of Intellectual Disabilities in 2002 after graduating from Arcadia University with a BA in Psychology. Janice has worked for Access Services since 2004 in a variety of roles, and currently hold the position of Vice President of Intellectual Disability and Autism Services. During her tenure, she has worked across several of programs (residential and non-residential) offering ODP services. In 2009 Janice obtained her license as a Registered Nurse and worked for many years in a PRN role for a skilled nursing facility in their geriatric psychiatric unit. Janice also had the opportunity to fill the role of Health Services Director at Access for several years. "I am thankful to have both the education and experience in these areas as it allows me a unique opportunity to blend my understanding of programs and regulations with healthcare needs in an effort to improve quality compliance, overall health, and achievement of individual outcomes."

Sheryl Martin, RN, BSN, Co-Chair

Nursing Services Coordinator
Friendship Community
[email protected]

Sheryl Martin, RN, BSN, is a graduate of Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, VA. She has 15 years of experience advocating for health and wellness for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism. Sheryl is currently the Nursing Services Coordinator at Friendship Community, a Provider located in Lancaster and Lebanon Counties. Friendship Community is a Christian ministry cultivating capabilities of Individuals with Intellectual Disability and Autism

From 1991 – 2007, Sheryl worked and lived in Afghanistan, experiencing wonderful hospitality from Afghan people and serving in Maternal-Child healthcare and community nursing with a multi-cultural team. She helped to implement training for Traditional Birth Attendants in Kabul.

Sheryl and her husband, Steve, live in Ephrata, PA and are parents to three young adult children. One of Sheryl’s passions other than nursing is welcoming immigrant neighbors and returning the hospitality she learned overseas. In her free time, she volunteers and interprets for Afghan clients with the local refugee resettlement agency in Lancaster County.