Palmer Home Names 2026 Recipient of Charles Guest Service Award

Palmer Home for Children celebrated Houseparents Rebecca and Charles Martin as the 2026 recipients of the Charles Guest Service Award. The Charles Guest Service Award recognizes a staff member for their contributions to Palmer Home for Children, mirroring the pursuit of excellence demonstrated by Palmer Home Board member Charles Guest.  

“I am very excited to announce the 2026 Charles Guest Service Award to the Martins,” said President & CEO Drake Bassett. “Their role as Houseparents has impacted so many children in our care. I have watched, in particular, a couple of brothers—very quiet, very reserved—and then, after a period of time, it is really fun to see those boys coming. The reason it’s fun to see them coming is that you can tell their lives are better. They know where they have come from, and they see what is in front of them—and what they see is the Martins, who love them every day… and I think maybe for the first time in their lives, they feel protected.”  

The Martin’s hard work and dedication to Palmer Home, to the children and families we serve, and to their colleagues are apparent. Their integrity and Christian character enable them to lead and serve with compassion and humility, and their willingness to invest time and effort in our children has not gone unnoticed.  

“I love working with the Martins. Their love for the Lord is so strong, and so is their heart for this ministry and for wanting to impact these children,” said Children’s Programs Manager Jennifer Kowalski, NCC, LWS. “There is a fine balance between caring for kids, providing structure for them, and also nurturing to promote trust, but they are embodying that.” 

Thank you, Charles and Rebecca, for serving us, our mission, and our family well. We are so grateful for you.